Ernst & Young LLP, one of the Big Four accounting firms, is actually an assemblage of 140 firms around the world. It offers tax, assurance, transaction and advisory services. E&Y is known for its Entrepreneur of the Year awards, which go to outstanding leaders at small companies.

Despite running a competitive workplace, E&Y collects laurels for progressive practices like its "calm effectiveness" program that teaches employees to recognize and reduce tension and anxiety. Such programs help attract seasoned recruits while a strong Facebook presence (17,500+ fans and counting) adds to E&Y's appeal for students and recent grads. And for the Samaritan accountant (read: Generation Millennials), E&Y offers a tempting initiative: The company pays for its professionals to provide free accounting services to small businesses overseas.