[Omni]

Hi everyone,

I could really use some career advice.

I will be starting at big four this upcoming summer and will be working in the Risk Advisory practice.

However, after a lot of discussion with family and friends, I believe a management consulting (strategy & operations, business strategy consulting) is the better career path for me. In terms of the work, I feel like the work will be a lot more rewarding (all personal opinion).

My question is as follows:

I understand that this is a pro CPA forum, but I would prefer to avoid taking the CPA, as I’ve read that the CPA is not beneficial for a consulting role. Instead, I’d like to take this time and focus on getting a high GMAT score (700+) to get into M7 MBA then return to big 4 consulting or MBB.

However, will big 4 still require that I take the CPA for Consulting? I’ve searched around on LinkedIn, and found very few managers all the way to even partners don’t have a CPA or any certification for that matter that I can see. Do consultants at the big 4 still have to take a certification to be promoted? It seems like this rule doesn’t apply to consultants.

Any advice from consultants and the general forum members would be greatly appreciated.

[mskcle]

Omni,

I am also beginning my career in Risk Advisory with the Big 4. I would assume that it states the recommended qualifications for promotion to higher level positions within your contract somewhere along with the bonus rewards for passing specific exams in a certain amount of time from starting. I do know a CPA is not required for Risk Advisory, but it is still the golden standard for the accounting profession with a slightly greater reward. Several other designations satisfy promotion to senior level positions such as: CMA, CISA, CIA, and several more. However, I do not think an MBA qualifies you for higher level promotions at a Big 4 firm. If you do not plan on staying long term than an MBA couldn't hurt you down the road, but as far as short term perspective you will need an additional certification.

My recommendation would be to review your contract with your firm, and then try to establish a short term and long term perspective. I think this would help you figure out what needs to be done now, and what would be best for you in regards to a career standpoint.

Hope that helps!

[Omni]

Thanks for the response!

I looked around on some big four career sites, and the recommendations and qualifications for strategy consulting roles did not mention a requirement for a CPA, and most listed an advanced degree from a top MBA school.

I am still doing my research, and I will keep everyone updated as to what I find.

[Author]

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