[UK] - Big 4 Audit to ER questions

I'm in the UK, for reference. My questions are:

1. How realistic is it? Will I need to try and get into TS first? Or can I go straight from Audit to ER?

2. What is the process for this? Where do I even start on what I need to learn to prepare myself. I'm in my second year of audit, and am 12/15 ways through and have only the final 3 exams left. I want to get a head start on what I need to know so I don't waste time. I really don't like audit, and am looking at a wider level corporate finance but ER is something that has really caught my eye.

3. Will I need a CFA Level 1 to do this? Or will an ACA be enough?

4. Are there particular industry coverage groups that are "easier" to get into? And does it matter long term which industry I cover? I have an Economics background so there's no particular industry that would favour my knowledge so far. 

Any help would be appreciated.

8 Comments
 
  1. Totally doable. Don't think I care whether you came from audit or TS. 
  2. Read this article: Network (In)to The Sell-side
  3. Designations could help, so no need to overdo it with CFA level 1 if you already have an accountant credential. 
  4. ER is a low turnover industry, so ease of entry doesn't apply unless you have a particular sector interest. Which industry you cover DOES impact your employability if you are interested in going to the buy-side (like many.) 
 

Thank you, your answers and that link is very helpful! What industries would you say are in particular the "best" for the transition into buy-side? I imagine tech is very employable in buy-side but also one of the most difficult to get into. 

 

I feel like online people have said it's possible but at least for the UK I can't see many opportunities/job postings across linkedin/other job boards that accept auditors. Is it something that I can only gain access for through recruiters? Or am I missing something?

 
Most Helpful

1. Move old as time in London. Audit straight to ER is the way

2. Seen some move before they finish their ACA... some move after 6 yrs in Big 4. All started on the same comp. 

3. CFA lv. 1 would be very helpful as CV indicator, but not essential. 

4. Depends more on headcount... you'd interview for whichever specific team(s) are recruiting. Teams less in demand might (?) be easier - Chemicals, Oil & Gas, Business Services etc (i.e. not tech, healthcare, consumer, growth-y stuff) Industry group matters for exit opps if you're thinking of sector-specific HF roles. 

 

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