You survived another busy season – but at what cost?
If you’re a public accounting professional running on fumes, asking yourself if this is sustainable long-term, you’re not alone. Burnout is on the rise, and more CPAs, auditors, and finance pros are exploring exits from public accounting than ever before.
Now is the perfect time to make a move and leave public accounting – and here’s why.
1. Burnout in Public Accounting Is at an All-Time High
Let’s be real: the “badge of honor” that comes with late nights and weekend work is worn thin.
In a recent survey by FloQast, 99% of accountants reported burnout, with over 70% saying it impacts their performance. Public accounting culture often normalizes exhaustion, but the truth is: your mental health and work-life balance matter.
If you’re feeling depleted after another busy season, it may be time to step back and reassess your path.
2. Big 4 Experience Is Incredibly Marketable
Your skills are in high demand across multiple industries. Hiring managers are actively seeking Big 4-trained professionals for roles in:
- Corporate accounting
- Financial analysis
- Internal audit
- FP&A
- Strategic advisory and consulting
You’ve built a rock-solid foundation – now it’s time to leverage it.
According to Scott Pullen, AVP for Staffing Services at Sherpa, “we consistently see strong demand for Big 4 and/or public accounting talent from our employer partners across Charlotte. Companies value the technical training, professionalism, and high-performance mindset these alumni bring to the table. From Fortune 500s to high-growth startups, employers know the experience translates into immediate impact in critical accounting, finance, and advisory roles. In a nutshell, making the transition from public accounting to private industry can be easier and more fulfilling than most people think.”
Private Industry Offers Flexibility and Growth
There’s a myth that you have to “grind it out” in public accounting to climb the ladder. In reality, private industry can and often does offer faster advancement, greater role variety, and better quality of life.
Professionals who’ve made the move tell us they enjoy:
- Hybrid or fully remote work
- Clearer paths to leadership
- Greater involvement in strategic decision-making
- Evenings and weekends back
Whether you’re eyeing a direct-hire role or want to try a contract-to-hire position before committing, we can help you chart a better course.
4. You’ve Earned the Right to Work on Your Terms
You’ve done the hard part. You passed the CPA exam and endured busy season after busy season, developing a sharp business mind in the process. Now, it’s time to find a career that values your expertise and your time.
At Sherpa, we specialize in helping Big 4 professionals like you transition into roles that offer:
- Work-life balance
- Career advancement
- Competitive compensation
- Respect for your contributions
It’s not just a job change – it’s a lifestyle upgrade.
Ready to Leave the Public Accounting Behind?
You’re not just thinking about leaving a job – you’re considering a major career move. That’s a big decision, and it deserves more than a LinkedIn job search and guesswork.
At Sherpa, we’ve helped hundreds of professionals like you navigate this transition with confidence. Whether you’re eyeing private industry, a high-growth company, or a more flexible consulting opportunity, we’re here to be your guide.
Here’s how we help you make the leap:
- Access to Exclusive Roles: We partner with top employers across the Carolinas and beyond—many of which don’t advertise publicly. You can start your search right here!
- Personalized Guidance: You’ll work with a dedicated recruiter who understands your background, listens to your goals, and helps identify roles that align with your values and career trajectory.
- Interview Preparation: We’ll help you translate your Big 4 experience into language that resonates with hiring managers, and we’ll coach you through every step of the interview process.
- Resume + LinkedIn Optimization: We’ll give you tips to make your professional brand stand out and appeal to private-sector employers.
- Negotiation Support: From compensation to culture fit, we advocate for your best interests, because you’ve earned it.
You’ve done the hard work. Now let’s make sure it pays off with the right next move.
Don’t let burnout define your career. Let Sherpa help you find a better path.
