Here's my take from my experience:
If you are looking at a pay cut.. guess you need to look harder for better opportunities
1) No. i think some managerial/supervisory experience in audit is better regarded
2) Too hard to tell. Your connections will open the doors to various industries.
3) Commercial is always hiring, not to worry. And the increments likely won't match your audit increment unless you are promoted, so take that in mind. You will not end up more "qualified" unless that promotion to manager in your commercial job materialises.
4) Higher basic less bonus. Time value of money, and reduce opportunity costs.
5) No idea. I believe it will only help you if you are identified as having potential by your company, unless you are seeking other movement in your career.
thanks Ken and MD for your replies.
There's no reason for me to stay till M1 cos it will mean many sleepless nights and lots of stress and frustration. And i think there's no reason to go thru all these if i dun intend to be partner.
The thing i will miss about the firm would be giving up the huge resources, 20 days AL and opportunities for personal growth such as making presentations, talking to clients and the freedom from being able to manage own time.
But at this point, acquiring commercial experience makes more sense cos i think 3 + 2 years mix of audit and commercial experience will be useful in the future.
But my concern is that joining a smaller than MNC firm now will be a disadvantage to my longer term plan to join MNCs.
