Practice vs Industry – The 5-Year Switch Trend
posted 24 Jul 25
In the world of accountancy, there’s a well-worn path that many follow. Qualify in practice, gain technical depth, and then, somewhere between years three and five, make the move to industry.
At Henderson Scott, we’ve seen this play out time and again. The “five-year switch” isn’t a rule, but it’s definitely a common trend. And for clients hiring into industry roles, understanding when and why practice-trained accountants are ready to move is key to attracting the right talent before someone else does.
Why the 3–5 PQE window matters
Technical foundation is solid
By this stage, most accountants have qualified (ACA/ACCA), rotated through audits or tax portfolios, and been exposed to multiple clients and sectors. The learning curve has levelled out.
Career curiosity kicks in
Many are looking for commercial exposure, ownership, and the ability to drive change, not just report on it. They want to be part of the business story, not just an external factor.
Life goals start to shift
The long hours and travel that often come with practice roles start to feel less sustainable. Lifestyle, stability, and flexibility become stronger priorities.
One 4-year PQE candidate summed it up like this:
“I’m ready to build something inside a business, not just comment on it from the outside.”
What industry clients often get wrong
Waiting too long to engage
If you only advertise once you have headcount approval, you’ve already missed the best candidates. The best moves happen through conversations, not applications.
Offering flat roles with no learning curve
Candidates are moving into industry to learn and grow. A job that feels like a reporting dead-end won’t cut it, no matter the salary.
Failing to tailor your offer
Practice-trained accountants bring analytical precision, client management skills, and a solid foundation of controls. But they may lack hands-on commercial experience. Role design and onboarding matter more than ever.
How to attract practice leavers
Time it right
The sweet spot? When candidates are newly qualified or sitting at the 3–5 PQE mark. This is when appetite meets ability. Beyond 6–7 years, many are on track for partnership, or so embedded that the switch feels too risky.
Speak their language
Candidates coming out of practice want to know:
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Will I learn?
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Will I have impact?
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Will I be mentored?
Spell it out. Show the progression path. Highlight commercial exposure. Make the “why move” answer obvious.
Offer structured support
Even smart, qualified accountants need guidance when transitioning into industry. Offer strong onboarding, access to decision-makers, and time to embed commercially. It’s a longer-term investment but one that pays off.
What we’re seeing
From FP&A to internal audit, we’re seeing strong demand for qualified accountants with practice pedigree, especially those with 1–5 years’ PQE.
The most successful hiring teams are:
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Starting conversations early
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Offering rotational exposure or project ownership
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Framing roles as career accelerators, not final destinations
The move from practice to industry is a milestone moment in an accountant’s career. For employers, it’s also a moment of opportunity. With the right timing, structure, and narrative, you can attract talent that’s ready to step out of advisory and into impact.
Want the bigger picture?
Our mid-year Accountancy & Finance market update dives deeper into hiring trends, salary shifts, and in-demand skill sets across practice and industry. Access the report here.
Need help positioning your role to practice-trained candidates?
Our specialist Accountancy & Finance consultants can guide you on offer structure, role design, and market timing so you don’t miss out on the best talent. Get in touch with the team for tailored advice.
