Public Practice Accounting: Why Clear Career Pathways Matter

Jan 21, 2026

Kara Bouchier

Public Practice Accounting: Why Clear Career Pathways Matter

Public Practice has always offered strong long-term careers, but today, candidates want more than vague promises or the classic “let’s review in six months.” They want clarity, structure and support that is visible every day.

People want to know what progression looks like, how it is measured, who is coaching them and whether they will gain exposure beyond compliance work. Without this clarity, talented accountants are likely to move on.

The firms getting it right focus on simple, realistic pillars to guide development. Technical competence, client interaction, advisory exposure and leadership or initiative forms the foundation of meaningful growth. Clear expectations across these areas make progression tangible and achievable.

Equally important is real-time support. Weekly feedback, monthly development chats and quarterly recalibration allow individuals to understand where they stand and adjust quickly. Waiting six months for a review leaves talent unsure and unmotivated; timely guidance keeps them engaged and growing.

The question every accountant should ask themselves is whether the right support is in place for their career. Are they being coached, developed and exposed to the work they want to do or just hoping opportunities will appear? In Public Practice, structure is no longer a bonus. It’s what makes the difference between feeling stuck and seeing a genuine path forward.

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