I am currently considering three job offers at SC level with EY, Capgemini and a boutique consultancy that has a very good standing in the energy/utilities industry.In 4/5 years' time I'd like to explore job opportunities elsewhere in Europe, so exit options are a factor in my decision.Is getting a Big4 brand on my CV worth a pay sacrifice now? EY are offering ~25% less than the highest offer.I have my views on this, but would appreciate any pearls of wisdom.

How does the package at the boutique compare vs the offer at EY? Is the difference really 25% when all is considered? If it is, then why would you take EY’s offer unless you think that the big 4 experience will be an investment that will ultimately pay off. I was in a similar position to you 6 months ago. I had an offer from one of the big 4 and one from boutique consultancy. The starting offer was some 20% below that of the boutique but the boutique didn’t offer a pension scheme, private healthcare, bonus etc. This closed the gap to around 5%, I then negotiated with the big 4 and accepted an offer with them. The final basic salary was only £2k lower than the boutique.

[quote]Is the difference really 25% when all is considered?[/quote]Yes, it is.In terms of remuneration the decision is a nobrainer. I'm trying to ascertain what value a Big 4 firm would add in terms of:a) Imparting 'consulting polish' to how I come acrossb) Better personal development opportunities, if any (but conscious that career progression is probably slower in a big 4)c) Industry best practices I can learn from / take away with med) Improved exit opportunities, if any (keeping in mind that UK contacts may or may not be useful in a foreign market)

Frio's advice is nailed on.Also consider sector - if you want to move further into Energy/Utilities for example then weigh up the relative reputations of EY, Cap and the boutique in that sector. Dont get blinded by the bright lights of EY if that boutique might take you where you want to go faster.

Big 4 aren't always what they are made up to be. You re likely to get more responsibility and opportunities to develop at the Boutique

People seem to have written off Cap. CC is a big player in utilities, depending on the specific type of management consulting you want to be doing then that could be a good shout. And no, I don't mean just IT!

What is the difference in pay between Cap and EY?