S2 Ep 5 - Christine Oliver - Big 4: What it's Really Like to Be a Partner

In this episode, I chat with Christine Oliver about What It’s Really like to be a Partner at a Big 4 Firm!

[08:08] Networking: Fun, work … or both? 

[21:10] The surprising benefits of the Big 4 brand

[22:49] The expectations of a Big 4 partner and how it ties to compensation

• What sacrifices will you need to make along the way?
• What kind of salary can you expect?
• How does the buy-in process work?
• How is performance measured?
• Who should consider becoming a partner at a Big 4 firm and who shouldn’t 
• Why Christine left the Big 4 and moved to a private equity-backed commercial disputes firm.

Christine also answered some listener questions:

• [39:39] What is your tip for someone that's looking to make partner in the next twelve months?
• [41:31] 100 years from now. What do you think the professional partnership model will look like?
• [42:43] You're making a recommendation to an accounting graduate. Should they start at a big 4 firm a midtier firm a boutique firm or a small suburban firm which one 

This episode of the podcast is brought to you by sponsors 

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Episode guest: Christine Oliver

Christine Oliver is a Senior Managing Director at Ankura where she provides expert evidence in a wide range of commercial disputes. 

Prior to joining Ankura, Christine was a partner at a Big 4 global accountancy firm, where she led their Australian dispute advisory practice.

You can connect with her on LinkedIn.

The Lifestyle Accountant Show is a podcast that helps today’s accounting firm leaders build successful businesses while living healthy, happy lives hosted by Meryl Johnston. 

For more information or to get in touch with us, head over to our website lifestyleaccountant.co.