Considering a Change from Public to Private Accounting

If you've built a career in public accounting, you're not alone in considering what's next. Many high-performing accounting experts eventually transition to private industry, and there's a plethora of opportunities for professionals coming out of PwC, Deloitte, EY and KPMG. Whether you're actively ready to make a move or just curious about what’s out there, now is the time to explore your options.

Here are the top 10 reasons to consider a change now

‍1. Take the time after busy season to consider other opportunities. The end of busy season is a strategic time to reset, reflect, and plan. It’s the ideal window to start conversations, expand your network, and begin interviews. Acting early puts you ahead of the curve—and ahead of the competition.

‍2. There are opportunities for every level. We partner with organizations across industries that are eager to bring in experts from public accounting. Whether you’ve spent two years or ten in the field, roles in senior accounting, financial reporting, SEC reporting, financial analysis, and internal audit (with and without travel) are in high demand.

3. Industry variaty at your fingertips. High-growth tech innovators, global medical device companies, leading retailers, and cutting-edge biopharma firms all value your background. One of our recent placements was a Director of SEC Reporting for a tech company experiencing double-digit growth—an opportunity to make a real impact from day one.

‍4. You are in high demand. Public accounting is a fantastic training ground, and because of that, you are highly sought after. You can grasp the technical issues, you have solid presentation skills, you can think on your feet, and you have a stellar work ethic. Finance departments desperately want and need what you have to offer. Now is a great time to take what you've learned in public accounting and apply it in a new way. The grass may, in fact, be greener.

‍5. Your quality of life will improve. You can have more of your life back. While you may still be managing month-end, quarter-end and year-end work, the hours are nothing like what you've experienced in public accounting. There are so many unique, exciting, and challenging opportunities where you don't have to kill yourself with hours. If you have interests outside of work, are thinking of starting a family, or just want more time away from the office, now is the time to explore opportunities that will give you back some quality of life.

‍6. Don't wait too long. Spending too much time in public accounting can make transitioning harder. Many hiring managers seek professionals with a blend of public and private experience. If you see your future outside public, make your move before your window narrows.

‍7. Tranistioning is smoother than you think. In private industry, you’ll take ownership of the work rather than reviewing it—and with your foundation, that transition is rarely bumpy. You’ll also gain exposure to operations, forecasting, and strategic planning.

‍8. You will only have one "client." Many accounting professionals coming out of public accounting firms say they are tired of having so many clients with the expectation of being technical experts in a variety of industries. By making the move to private industry, you will be responsible for one company in one industry. You'll know where you are going every day, you'll be deeply involved in the industry, and you'll know your business inside and out. You will be an expert at everything related to your job.

‍9. Compensenation can be suprisingly strong. From competitive salaries to equity packages, bonus structures, and robust benefits, moving to private industry can be financially rewarding—without taking a step back.

‍10. It's always smart to explore. Even if you're not ready to make a move, knowing what’s out there gives you power. With your background, you could step into leadership in accounting management, financial reporting, internal audit, or analytics. Many employers specifically seek Big Four experience—and now’s the time to see how your skills translate into meaningful new roles.

At The Planet Group, we specialize in helping accounting experts chart what’s next. Reach out today to explore opportunities that match your ambition—and elevate your career.