From Public Tax to What’s Next? A Practical Guide for Tax Seniors at a Crossroads
If you’re a tax senior in public accounting and you’ve hit a wall — whether it’s the long hours, the grind of busy season, or just the sense that this isn’t sustainable — you’re not alone.
I recently worked with someone in exactly that position. They weren’t burned out yet, but they could see it coming. They weren’t sure what they wanted next — just that it wasn’t this.
That’s a critical inflection point. And if you’re there now, this post is for you.
Because the truth is, there’s no one “right” move. But there are a few well-worn paths — and each one comes with trade-offs. Some people make that next move and thrive. Others jump too quickly, without fully understanding where they’re headed, and find themselves starting over again and again.
So let’s break down your options, honestly and clearly.
1. Stay in Public Accounting — But at a Different Firm
What it is:
A lateral move to another public firm — often with better culture, different clients, or more manageable hours. This might mean a smaller local firm, a national firm, or a niche specialty group.
Why people choose it:
They still enjoy tax work, just not this firm’s version of it.
They want to preserve their trajectory (manager, senior manager, etc.).
They want exposure to different industries or client sizes.
Pros:
You don’t reset your career path.
Your experience is directly relevant.
Some firms do offer better work-life balance or culture.
Cons:
Still public accounting. Still deadlines. Still busy season.
If the issue is tax work itself, this won’t solve it.
Mentor note: Sometimes people think their problems are with “public,” but they’re really with their current firm. Don’t underestimate what a change in leadership, expectations, or team culture can do.
2. Move to Industry as a Tax Accountant
What it is:
You work in-house on tax for one company. You might focus on compliance, planning, provision, or a mix.
Why people choose it:
Predictable hours outside of quarter-end.
Less client juggling — deeper focus on one business.
You still use your tax knowledge every day.
Pros:
Better work-life balance (most of the time).
Strong companies offer great benefits and stability.
A natural fit for public accountants looking for a change without reinventing themselves.
Cons:
Roles are often segmented — you may specialize in provision or compliance, not both.
Some tax departments are lean — growth can be slow.
Fewer people “speak tax,” so it can feel isolating at times.
Mentor note: Not every company has a robust tax department. If your firm mostly serves small businesses, don’t expect to slide in as their tax lead — they probably outsource that work.
3. Join a Family Office or Private Wealth Group
What it is:
You support high-net-worth individuals or families with everything from tax planning to estate strategies and investment oversight.
Why people choose it:
A more personal, relationship-driven version of tax work.
Broader exposure to wealth planning, investment, and legal coordination.
High-touch, high-trust environment.
Pros:
Unique and rewarding client relationships.
Variety in work — not just tax compliance.
Often excellent pay and stability.
Cons:
Jobs can be hard to find and are rarely entry points.
Very little room for error; expectations are high.
Not ideal if you dislike client service.
Mentor note: This is where tax meets lifestyle and legacy. If that appeals to you, it can be a great fit — but the learning curve is steep, and breaking in can require networking.
4. Switch to a GAAP-Side Role (Corporate Accounting/Finance)
What it is:
You pivot out of tax and into a role more focused on financial reporting, general ledger, revenue, FP&A, or internal audit.
Why people choose it:
They’re more drawn to operations, analysis, or reporting than to tax law.
They want broader business exposure.
They’re open to a fresh start.
Pros:
Expands your skillset beyond tax.
Leads to controller, CFO, or finance leadership tracks.
More team integration — less siloed than tax can be.
Cons:
You may be starting closer to entry level, depending on the role.
Tax skills won’t carry over directly.
You’ll have to relearn a lot: systems, standards, and expectations.
Mentor note: This is a great path for curious, adaptable people — but it’s not a shortcut. You’ll trade short-term mastery for long-term flexibility. Be ready to prove you can learn fast.
A Word on Timing
It’s tempting to make a move right after a brutal busy season — and that might be the right move. But don’t let fatigue drive your decision more than strategy.
Yes, there are patterns. It’s common to switch:
After getting your CPA
After a promotion to senior (or just before manager)
After two or three busy seasons
But hiring cycles vary. Tax departments don’t always hire mid-busy season. And family offices? They often hire through networking and word of mouth, not job boards.
So if you're planning to leave, do your homework. Make a plan. And if you’re unsure, don’t be afraid to slow down and ask questions.
Final Thought
You’ve built a foundation. Your skills are real. But every job change — even a lateral one — requires learning and growth.
The people who transition best are the ones who:
Know their strengths
Understand the trade-offs
Stay curious
And treat their next step as part of a journey, not an escape
If you’re thinking about what’s next, take the time to think about why. Then go explore what’s out there — not just to get out, but to find the right place to grow.