The Big 4 firms—Deloitte, PwC, EY, and KPMG—are often seen as the pinnacle of a public practice accountant’s profession.
These global giants are known for having prestigious client lists, extensive resources, and rigorous training for career-driven accountants.
However, for many who work within the Big 4, the reality includes long hours, intense competition, and slower career progression.
For accountants seeking a more balanced and rewarding career, smaller regional firms present an attractive alternative.
And it’s something we’re seeing more of across public practice. From working with candidates up and down the country, we get oversight of recruitment trends and we see first-hand the priorities of job searching accountants.
Many are opting for small yet mighty firms offering a healthy work / life balance, recognition for hard work, and career progression opportunities.
If you’re a talented accountant and you’re not sure whether you should apply for a role with a small or medium firm instead of the Big 4, here are some things to consider…
The Benefits of Working at a Smaller Regional Firm
One of the biggest advantages of joining a smaller firm is the potential for a better work-life balance. While the Big 4 firms often require long hours, especially during busy seasons, smaller firms tend to offer more manageable workloads.
This focus on maintaining a healthy work-life balance can lead to lower burnout rates and higher job satisfaction. If you join a smaller firm, you’ll likely find you have more time for personal interests, family, and other activities outside of work.
In smaller firms, accountants are often required to take on a variety of tasks and responsibilities and this diverse experience can be incredibly valuable. It would enable you to develop a broader skill set. Unlike in the Big 4, where roles can be highly specialised, smaller firms provide opportunities to work on different aspects of accounting, such as tax, audit, and client management, and this hands-on experience could accelerate your learning and professional growth.
The hierarchical structure of the Big 4 often means it can take years to climb the corporate ladder. In contrast, smaller firms typically have flatter organisational structures, allowing for quicker advancement.
If you’re a high performer, you’re much more likely to be recognised and promoted faster. There’ll be less bureaucracy and competition for the promotion you’re working hard to achieve.
Be a Big Fish in a Small Pond
You might have heard of the big fish in a small pond concept. In this context, it means that in a smaller environment, individual contributions are more visible, and one’s impact on the firm can be more significant
This is a fantastic opportunity when working at a smaller firm. You’re more likely to have greater influence over decision-making processes and play a key role in shaping the firm’s direction.
This increased visibility can lead to stronger relationships with clients and colleagues, as well as enhanced professional recognition.
And building long-lasting client relationships isn’t just good for the firm; it’s good for your professional network.
Smaller firms typically work with a diverse range of clients, including local businesses, family-owned enterprises, and non-profits. The nature of these relationships tends to be more personal and long-term compared to the often transactional relationships seen at larger firms.
At a smaller firm, you’d have the opportunity to build deeper connections with your clients, offering tailored advice and becoming a trusted advisor. If you value meaningful professional relationships, this aspect of client interaction can be particularly rewarding.
A safe bet during uncertainty
During periods of economic uncertainty, working at a small or medium accountancy firm can offer greater job security and stability compared to the Big 4. Smaller firms tend to have a more diversified client base, which may be less vulnerable to global economic fluctuations.
These firms often have closer, long-term relationships with their clients, leading to more consistent work and less volatility in revenue streams. The more personalised and adaptable nature of smaller firms also allows for quicker adjustments to changing economic conditions, reducing the risk of large-scale layoffs or restructuring.
We’re seeing this more and more with the rise of M&As sweeping across public practice.
This flexibility, coupled with a strong focus on maintaining steady, reliable client relationships, can provide a more secure and resilient working environment during uncertain times.
Do you have your sights set on the top table?
For accountants with an entrepreneurial spirit, smaller regional firms can offer unique opportunities to take on ownership roles.
Many smaller firms are looking for leaders who can bring in new business and expand the firm’s reach. If you have vision and drive, you could have the chance to own or co-own a practice. This path can lead to not only financial rewards but also personal fulfilment from building something of lasting value.
While the Big 4 firms offer undeniable prestige and opportunities, they are not the only path to a successful and fulfilling career within public practice.
Smaller firms present a viable and often advantageous alternative for those seeking greater work-life balance, faster career progression, and the chance to make a more significant impact.
If you’re considering a change in your public practice career, don’t overlook the potential that a smaller firm might offer. They might just be the perfect fit for your professional goals and personal aspirations.
Here at Public Practice Recruitment Ltd, we recruit accountants into firms across the UK and have the expertise to know where your professional skills and personal attributes will have the most value – from the size and structure of the firm to the company culture and growth opportunities.
Find out what type of firm would be the best fit for you. Here’s how.
Public practice is on the precipice of significant change. Read on.
