i'm hoping to get a big4 offer at Manager level, BUT, if I can delay accepting offer for about 3 months I should be able apply for voluntary redundancy with current employer (I would get about 25K). What reasons could I give to delay accepting an offer? Has anyone done this? Thanks.

say your dog ate the offer letter

get the offer first then ask them - if you are not business critical at this point and are that good they may well go for it........but get the offer first!

Can't you simply delay the start date?

Given the uncertainties and the fact that 25K is very useful but not life changing, is it worth the risk of losing the offer? Manager is not such a senior grade that the new employer will move heaven and earth to keep you, and they may well be recruiting with a particular billable role in mind - manager is a level with plenty of turnover so there will be others in the queue.. If you are feeling brave however you could say that you were put on 3m notice when you were selected for a high performer's deferred stock incentive scheme.

'..say your dog ate the offer letter'lol

Checked the maths, I'd get 45K pay-off. I need to line this up as I want new job and pay-off.They know I'm on a month's notice. What if I get the offer, tell them I'm on three month's notice and hang on for a VR offer?

Will you give me £10K?

Simple - just tell them you're on 3 months notice and that after applying pressure to your current mean nasty employer that they've refused an early release. Then - if they pull the offer they weren't that interested and you can enjoy your time off (well - as long as 25k will last you).