The accounting industry offers a wide range of opportunities for individuals with a passion for numbers and problem-solving. Whether you're a recent graduate with an accounting degree or an experienced professional seeking new challenges, choosing the right firm to work for is essential to building a successful career. The phrase "best accounting firms to work for" captures the aspirations of accounting professionals looking for workplaces that align with their career growth and work-life balance needs.
In this guide, we'll explore some of the top accounting firms for building a fulfilling career. We'll highlight what makes these firms attractive, including work culture, growth opportunities, compensation packages, and more.
Why Choosing the Right Accounting Firm Matters
Choosing the right accounting firm is about more than just the prestige of a big name; it's also about the firm's culture, opportunities, and work-life balance. The accounting profession is diverse, including public accounting firms, private accounting businesses, audit and assurance services, consulting services, and more. Whether your interest lies in tax, auditing, or advisory services, it's essential to understand the environment and opportunities available at different firms.
The largest accounting firms, including the "Big Four" (PwC, Deloitte, Ernst & Young, and KPMG), provide excellent exposure to large clients, multiple industries, and extensive career paths. On the other hand, mid-sized firms like Grant Thornton or BDO can offer a more balanced lifestyle with personalized career development opportunities.
One of the most recognized benchmarks for understanding which firms are the best places to work is the Vault Accounting 25. These rankings are an excellent resource for understanding where accounting firms stand regarding employee satisfaction, culture, compensation, diversity, and work-life balance.
Key Factors That Make a Firm a Great Place to Work
Understanding what makes a firm one of the "best accounting firms to work for" is crucial before diving into specific firms. Some of the major factors that influence these rankings include:
- Work-Life Balance: Maintaining a balance between professional and personal life is critical for sustained success. Firms that offer flexible work schedules, remote work options, and wellness programs are highly attractive in the accounting profession.
- Career Development: Growth opportunities such as mentorship programs, formal training, and structured career paths play a significant role in an accountant's career development. Firms that offer continued education, CPA exam support, and leadership training are particularly desirable.
- Company Culture: A supportive and inclusive work culture enhances the experience of working at an accounting firm. Companies like PwC and Deloitte are well-known for placing a high value on diversity, respect, and employee engagement.
- Exposure to Diverse Services: Some firms provide a broad range of services, such as audit, assurance, taxation, and advisory services. Exposure to various services helps accountants develop a well-rounded skill set, making them more versatile professionals.
Let's take a closer look at some of the firms that consistently rank as the best accounting firms to work for.
PwC (PricewaterhouseCoopers)
Career Growth and Innovation
PwC, a titan in the accounting industry, frequently ranks among the best places to work due to its strong emphasis on career development and its forward-looking approach to technology. PwC encourages innovation through initiatives like the Digital Accelerator program, where employees develop essential skills in data analysis, automation, and artificial intelligence—skills that are crucial in the modern accounting landscape.
Structured mentorship programs and formal training help employees hone both technical and soft skills. Employees at PwC can grow in areas such as data-driven auditing, consulting, and risk advisory. Furthermore, employees have access to partners and a nurturing environment that supports leadership development.
Work-Life Balance and Diversity
PwC prioritizes work-life balance through flexible working hours, remote work options, and generous leave policies. As the accounting industry faces a talent shortage, firms like PwC have focused on employee wellbeing to attract and retain talent.
Additionally, PwC leads the way in diversity, with initiatives aimed at increasing minority representation and advancing women in leadership roles. Programs like the Diversity Mentorship initiative are a testament to PwC's commitment to creating an inclusive environment where every employee has the opportunity to thrive.
Deloitte
Deloitte is a leading public accounting firm that continues to be an attractive employer for those seeking broad exposure and opportunities for career growth.
Training and Development
Deloitte is known for its strong focus on career development. From entry-level to senior positions, Deloitte invests in its employees by offering formal training opportunities and access to Deloitte University, a facility dedicated to continuous learning. The learning opportunities are vast, ranging from specialized technical skills to leadership development programs. This helps accountants at Deloitte build diverse career paths that extend beyond auditing and taxation.
Technology and Innovation
Deloitte is a leader in adopting cutting-edge technology in accounting. The firm has been at the forefront of leveraging technology like artificial intelligence for improved audit quality and efficient consulting services. Deloitte's Audit & Assurance Revenue services integrate digital tools to provide better insights and more value to clients.
Compensation and Benefits
Deloitte offers competitive compensation packages, including health insurance, wellness programs, and generous retirement plans. The firm also provides mental health support and paid sabbatical leave, contributing significantly to employee satisfaction. Deloitte's focus on employee wellbeing has made it one of the most desirable accounting firms to work for.
Ernst & Young (EY)
EY consistently ranks high as one of the best accounting firms to work for, especially for accountants looking for a global experience.
Global Mobility Program
EY provides extensive opportunities for accountants interested in gaining international experience. The Global Mobility Program allows employees to work in different offices worldwide, providing exposure to different accounting practices and corporate accounting strategies. This international exposure is invaluable for accountants who want to expand their knowledge and add diversity to their resumes.
Commitment to Diversity
EY places significant emphasis on diversity and inclusion, with programs like the EY Women’s Leadership Program designed to support gender equality. EY is an excellent fit for accounting professionals who value an inclusive environment that encourages everyone to achieve their full potential.
KPMG
KPMG is another accounting powerhouse that places a high emphasis on employee development and a people-first work culture.
Learning and Development
KPMG is renowned for its emphasis on learning, offering continuous education through its KPMG Business School. KPMG supports its employees in pursuing the CPA exam and provides training in specialized areas like audit representation, advisory services, and attestation services. This commitment to development makes KPMG one of the most sought-after employers for ambitious accounting professionals.
People-First Culture
KPMG prides itself on promoting a culture that values its people. The firm's initiatives, like Family for Literacy, allow employees to contribute to social causes, fostering a sense of purpose beyond work. KPMG also offers flexibility in work schedules, enabling employees to manage their careers and personal lives effectively.
BDO
BDO provides an excellent alternative to the Big Four for accountants seeking a more personalized work environment.
Personalized Growth Opportunities
As a slightly smaller firm compared to the Big Four, BDO emphasizes individual attention and personalized career development. Employees enjoy more direct relationships with senior management and managing partners, allowing them to learn from tenured accountants more effectively. Despite its smaller size, BDO offers a broad range of services, such as audit assurance taxation management and consulting services, providing employees with ample exposure to different areas of accounting.
Work-Life Balance
BDO is well-known for offering a favorable work-life balance, with options for flexible work hours and remote work. Employees at BDO appreciate the firm’s focus on balancing professional responsibilities with personal life, making it an ideal workplace for those who value their time outside of work.
Grant Thornton
Grant Thornton is one of the largest accounting firms outside the Big Four, offering a blend of flexibility and comprehensive resources.
Mid-Sized Firm Advantages
Grant Thornton provides a unique balance between the culture of a small firm and the resources of a large firm. Employees enjoy access to partners and senior management, fostering a personalized work experience that is hard to find in larger firms. At the same time, the firm's international network ensures that employees receive exposure to global practices and high-profile clients.
Diversity and Inclusion
Grant Thornton emphasizes creating an inclusive environment for all its employees. Initiatives like the GT Women’s Network and Diversity Summit are key to fostering a culture of belonging and support. This makes Grant Thornton one of the best accounting firms for those who want to feel valued and heard at their workplace.
RSM
RSM is a firm that provides a unique blend of large-firm resources and local-firm culture, making it one of the top employers in the accounting industry.
Career Development Framework
RSM offers structured career development through its RSM Career Development Framework, which provides employees with clear paths to advancement. The firm supports young professionals by providing mentorship, leadership training, and opportunities to work with clients across a wide range of industries.
Community Engagement
RSM's focus on community involvement is a significant part of its appeal. The RSM US Foundation supports various charitable activities, and employees are encouraged to participate in these initiatives. This focus on giving back helps create a work culture where employees feel they are making a difference both professionally and socially.
Baker Tilly
Baker Tilly is known for its commitment to work culture and innovation.
Supportive Work Environment
Baker Tilly focuses on creating a supportive environment where employees are encouraged to bring their authentic selves to work. This has led to high levels of anonymous employee engagement and satisfaction. The firm also offers flexibility, including remote working options and flexible hours, making it appealing to those who value balance.
Emphasis on Technology
Baker Tilly is focused on utilizing the latest technology to stay ahead of the curve. Employees are provided with tools and platforms that enhance their work, allowing them to deliver better results to clients and make their workdays more efficient.
Conclusion
The accounting profession is diverse, and choosing the right firm is a crucial step in determining your career trajectory. From the Big Four accounting firms like PwC, Deloitte, EY, and KPMG, to mid-sized firms like Grant Thornton and BDO, each firm offers something unique. The best accounting firms to work for align with your career goals, whether it’s gaining international exposure, achieving work-life balance, or growing within a supportive culture.
Firms that rank highly, like those featured in the Accounting Today Best Accounting Firms to Work For list, provide not only financial rewards but also a work environment that supports growth, learning, and work-life integration. The accounting industry, including firms that provide audit, taxation, and advisory services, offers a multitude of career paths for accounting professionals. Take time to explore these firms and choose the one that best aligns with your personal and professional aspirations.
