Stay with accepted T2 or rescind and move to KPMG Strategy?

Hey guys,

I've been doing the recruiting process and have had many leads, most of which I've had to turn down due to deadlines. I ended up having two offers, one at a T2 and one at a higher-paying boutique, but I ultimately chose the T2. Now, I also learned that I was offered a position at KPMG Strategy.

I've already accepted the T2 position, but I'm thinking if I made a mistake. The hours are known to be unusually sweaty without commensurate pay. KPMG Strategy MD called me yesterday (told them in the interview about the T2 deadline but I guess they couldn't expedite me) and said stuff like "you were the first person we called" and "we really want you to join us so call me on my cell whenever" and he was a genuinely nice guy (although wouldn't be in my office). HE made it sound like I have negotiating power, which his surprising.

TLDR: do I choose the T2 I already accepted or KPMG Strategy? The hours are much better, and the pay is about the same (update: they matched my T2 offer). Both are in the same city.

kpmg average 45 hours a week, sometimes push 50-55 but rare

T2:average 65 a week

Stay with accepted T2 or rescind and move to KPMG Strategy?

T2
48% (29 votes)
Rescind and move to KPMG Strategy
21% (13 votes)
See votes (please read first and actually vote, don't waste your opinion on this!)
31% (19 votes)
Total votes: 61
4 Comments
 

Based on the most helpful WSO content, here's a detailed comparison to help you decide between staying with the T2 firm or moving to KPMG Strategy:

KPMG Strategy Offer:

  • Base Salary: $90k
  • Sign-On Bonus: $7k
  • Discretionary Perk Reimbursement: $1200/year (gym, etc.)
  • 401(k) Match: 6%
  • PTO: 15 days
  • Work Hours: Average 45 hours/week, occasionally 50-55 hours
  • Additional Notes: The MD seems genuinely interested in you, indicating potential negotiating power and a supportive environment.

T2 Firm Offer:

  • Base Salary: Slightly higher than KPMG
  • Sign-On Bonus: Higher than KPMG
  • Personal Bonus Potential: Super low in year 1
  • Profit Sharing Bonus: Max 20% of base salary, averaged 11% over the last 3 years
  • 401(k) Contribution: 5 points of the profit-sharing bonus (no profit-sharing means no 401(k) contribution)
  • PTO: 15 days
  • Work Hours: Average 65 hours/week
  • Additional Notes: Known for unusually high work hours without commensurate pay.

Key Considerations:

  1. Work-Life Balance:

    • KPMG Strategy: Offers a significantly better work-life balance with an average of 45 hours/week.
    • T2 Firm: Requires an average of 65 hours/week, which is considerably higher.
  2. Compensation:

    • KPMG Strategy: Slightly lower base and sign-on bonus but includes discretionary perks and a solid 401(k) match.
    • T2 Firm: Higher base and sign-on bonus, but the bonus potential is low in the first year, and the 401(k) contribution is tied to profit-sharing.
  3. Career Growth and Environment:

    • KPMG Strategy: The MD's personal interest and the supportive environment could provide better long-term growth and satisfaction.
    • T2 Firm: While it has a higher initial compensation, the demanding hours might lead to burnout and affect long-term career satisfaction.

Conclusion:

Given the better work-life balance, supportive environment, and comparable compensation, moving to KPMG Strategy seems like a more sustainable and rewarding choice. The slightly lower base salary is offset by the better hours and additional perks, making it a more attractive option overall.

Sources: Comp/Culture/Hours etc at Tier 2 Consulting Firms?, Is there HONESTLY a difference in the quality of work between Strategy& (Tier 2 consulting) and MBB?, MBB Implementation or 2nd Tier Generalist?, How you can get multiple job offers before you graduate, Very happy at current job; does it still make sense to switch?

I'm an AI bot trained on the most helpful WSO content across 17+ years.
 
Most Helpful

Hey man. Congrats on the multiple offers amidst a hectic and competitive recruiting season. I’m a year behind so my words only count so much, but I’ll offer a few points to consider.

1) how important WLB is to you. You should do some soul searching and think what you want your day to day to be like.

2) exit opps. What do you want to do long term? If you wanna stick to consulting, then choose the place you know you can specialize in and area you’re intrigued by down the line.

3) people. Which firm did you enjoy the people more?

4) salary. Close enough to each other, probably similar in all stages and promotions… shouldn’t be a main factor, even if you go for the one with a little lower salary.

5) location. Where do you want to end up geographically, long term.

 

1. I don't really know yet, I haven't lived a real working life! I mean, if I am making same $ or slightly less for 20% less work...?

2. I don't really know B4 strategy exit ops. I've heard the T2 are decent/good, altho down from what they were 2-3 years ago. Hopefully that is rebounding. How would KPMG Strat stack up

3. The KPMG people I've spoke to are very nice and accommodating, but it's hard to gauge. I've spoken to T2 people too who seem maybe "smarter" and more driven, but also nice? Def more busy

4. Salary has been matched

5. same city

 

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