Should I go back to accountancy practice after working in industry?

When it comes to career moves, the big debate is always accountancy practice vs industry. It’s the one question we hear time and time again, so we decided to put it to the test with a LinkedIn poll.

Yes – I miss the structure: 9%

No – Industry is better: 44%

Maybe, depends on the role: 30%

Haven’t worked in practice: 16%

Nearly half of you are sold on industry, a third are on the fence, and a small but notable group miss the structure of practice. But here’s the thing, practice today doesn’t always look like practice ten years ago. For some, going back might be a smarter move than they think.

The pros of industry

Industry roles often come with:

• More predictable hours
• A seat closer to commercial decision-making
• A clear career ladder within one business

Why practice might be worth a second glance

Practice has evolved and the old stereotypes don’t always apply. Returning to practice can actually unlock opportunities that industry doesn’t always offer

• Variety of experience – exposure to multiple sectors, clients and challenges
• Fast progression – many firms promote on merit, with partner/director routes visible from day one
• Specialisation – tax, advisory, audit… practice gives you space to carve out a niche
• Client-facing impact – you’re not just reporting numbers, you’re influencing decisions and shaping strategies.

The maybe camp

30% said ‘maybe, it depends on the role’ and honestly, that is where the market is heading. Many firms now offer:

• Hybrid roles that mix advisory with technical work
• Flexible working models
• Competitive salaries and perks designed to tempt talent back from industry

In other words, it doesn’t have to be ‘industry forever’ or ‘practice forever’. The right role could give you the best of both worlds.

As ACCA puts it, “our ACCA studies and professional qualification will open the door on a world of choice, and it is never too late to make a career change, or too soon either.”

Thinking about the next move?

Here at HireIQ, we speak to accountants every day who are weighing up exactly this decision. Some are set on industry, others are curious about practice again, and plenty just want to know their options.

Our advice? Don’t rule anything out. The market is shifting, and your next move might surprise you.

Why not have a chat with our expert consultants to find out what the current market looks like.

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