Hey everyone,
I’m 29 and currently work at a second-tier consulting company with around 5 years of total experience. I spent about 2.5 years in corporate roles before switching to consulting 2.5 years ago. Right now I’m at the Consultant level and mostly manage individual workstreams rather than entire projects.
I just got an offer from a Big Four firm to join as Senior Manager, which would be a pretty substantial promotion from where I am now. The salary increase is roughly 25% more than what I make currently, plus the title upgrade is obviously appealing.
While this seems like a great opportunity on the surface, I’m trying to figure out if it makes sense for my career in the long run. I’m wondering about things like company culture differences, whether the Big Four name recognition at this level is actually valuable, and if I’m ready for the increased responsibilities.
Has anyone here made a similar transition from a smaller consulting firm to Big Four? Would love to hear your thoughts on whether this type of move is beneficial or if there are downsides I should consider.
Appreciate any advice you can share.
This isn’t just a title change—you’re shifting your entire career path. I’ve watched tons of colleagues make similar moves, and here’s what matters: honestly assess the gap between what you do now and what Big Four senior managers actually handle. Big Four senior managers juggle multiple client relationships while running teams of 8-12 people. The analytical depth and client management skills they expect usually go way beyond what second-tier firms require. Ask yourself: has your current role really prepared you for complex stakeholder management and P&L responsibility? The culture shock is real. Big Four firms run on way more structured processes, documentation, and internal politics. Sure, you’ll develop skills systematically, but it might feel suffocating after the flexibility you’re used to. Don’t just think about the immediate paycheck. Big Four credentials really do open doors to Fortune 500 strategy roles and top MBA programs—but only if you can show real impact while you’re there.
that consultant-to-senior-manager jump seems off. Big4 doesn’t skip manager level unless something’s wrong - either they’re desperate or there’s a catch you don’t see yet. I’d ask them straight up why they’re bypassing a whole level. Could signal high turnover or crazy expectations. and that 25% raise? Might not feel like much when you’re pulling Big4 hours compared to what you’ve got now.
Made this exact jump three years ago from boutique to PwC - it’s been complicated. Money’s better but the adjustment was brutal. At my old firm I could wing presentations and lean on relationships. Big Four doesn’t work that way. Everything’s templated, approval chains for everything, and clients expect polish that takes time to build. What surprised me wasn’t the hours (saw that coming) but how different ‘senior manager’ means at Big Four vs smaller shops. Partners throw you into situations expecting you already know their methods and internal politics. I’m not saying don’t do it, but negotiate a longer onboarding if you can. The brand name definitely helps with networking though.
Amazing opportunity! They wouldn’t promote you if they didn’t see real potential. Big Four experience will fast-track your career - definitely take it! You’re young enough to adapt fast and pick up skills you can’t get anywhere else.
lol you’re asking if you should take a 25% raise and promotion… what’s to think about? Yeah, big four means more corporate BS and longer hours, but you’re 29 - not ancient. That brand name opens doors when you get burned out and want out. Worst case? You hate it and jump ship in 18 months with better credentials. Your current firm won’t magically become Deloitte, so ride the wave.