Hi all,I know this has been discussed a few times already but all the threads I could find on this are a few years old so I wanted to get some more recent opinions.I have 8 years industry experience and have just been contacted for a role at SC level at one of the big 4. Although the job description I was given looks really good, I am wondering if, given my current salary and experience, I should not be hired at Manager level instead.My main hesitations for this move are:- if I join at SC level, in what timeframe can I realistically expect to move to Manager level?- I already work about 55 hours a week but should I expect to work longer hours at SC level?- salary wise, the role does not seem to pay more than what I earn in industry today, or even pays a bit less (about 10% less)The work of a SC sounds exciting but I want to make sure this is the right move for me now, and that I start at the right level.Any thoughts would be appreciated.Thanks.

There appears to be a trend at the moment for big 4 firms to bring in experienced people from industry. I'm the same, although with less experience than you.In reality it's a sideways move for me and I've done it simply for the future prospects. I'm not sure how I'm going to feel about doing "menial" tasks or working with a team full of bright young things in their early 20's, but we will soon see.

1) your experience matters not - it's how you performed at the interview. Working in a consulting environment is quite different to working in industry with a different focus. I know a lot of people that have come in from industry (with significant experience) but either didn't like consulting or couldn't hack consulting and left promptly.2) Certain, risk-averse, big 4 companies tend to hire under the grade to make sure you can demonstrate your abilities3) Manager level tends to include sales and revenue management targets4) No timeframes - depends on you. Also depends on where in the performance year you've joined. Something to ask the company.5) Lol re 55.6) Have you thought about all the hotel and trainline points you'll collect? THey will surely more than make up the 10% difference? On top of that, you can almost guarantee that you'll become single (saving here too)

Thanks for the feedback.@Richthekeeper: it's also a pure sideways move for me if I make it so please let me know how you get on as I'll be very interested to hear your first impressions@Smithy: regarding becoming single, that might be an issue, as the cost of a divorce will for sure bring my finances down in the red, especially if I take a pay cut in the first place!Otherwise thanks for your other comments, very helpful. Although I am not sure what to make of the '55' working hours :)