At Hazeltine Executive Search, we’ve noticed a growing trend in the accounting consulting world: Former Big-4 talent are open to remote part-time accounting opportunities. This shift is reshaping the industry, providing new avenues for professionals to balance their careers and personal lives.
Why Former Big-4 Accountants Are Embracing Part-Time Consulting
Flexibility Meets Expertise
Part-time consulting allows companies to access a pool of experienced professionals who might otherwise exit the industry due to personal commitments or burnout. This approach maintains access to specialized skills and industry knowledge without the overhead of full-time employment.
Work-Life Balance as a Competitive Edge
The demand for improved work-life balance propels this trend. A 2024 survey by the American Institute of CPAs revealed that 84% of accounting professionals felt encouraged to balance their work and personal life. Hazeltine has responded to this demand by creating a network of former Big-4 accountants who are seeking part-time positions to continue their careers while balancing personal demands.
Cost-Effective Talent Management
From a financial perspective, part-time arrangements prove cost-effective for our clients. They can scale their workforce more efficiently, bringing in specialized expertise for specific projects without long-term commitments. This flexibility holds particular value in today’s volatile economic climate (where project demands fluctuate rapidly).
Career Progression in a Part-Time World
Part-time consulting no longer equates to career stagnation.
Candidates with Big-4 experience often bring a unique perspective to their roles, combining high-level expertise with a demonstrated ability to manage complex workloads efficiently. This makes them particularly attractive to organizations seeking agile, results-driven leaders.
Final Thoughts
Part-time consulting represents a significant shift in the accounting and consulting landscape. This trend will continue as professionals seek greater flexibility and firms adapt to changing workforce dynamics. The future of offering part-time accounting consulting looks promising, with potential for further innovation in work arrangements and career paths.
Success for consultants in part-time roles depends on effective time management, clear communication, and strategic networking. Developing specialized expertise and using technology are essential for maintaining productivity and visibility. Consultants must advocate for themselves to ensure their contributions receive appropriate recognition and rewards.
At Hazeltine Executive Search, we match top talent with organizations that value flexibility and innovation. Our expertise in accounting and finance, more specifically working with candidates currently in the Big-4 looking to transition their careers to industry or former Big-4 professionals looking for a change, helps us identify candidates who will excel in part-time consulting roles.
