Overview
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.
This firm's sterling reputation got some tarnish in the wake of the Lehman bankruptcy when an examiner's report said the auditor failed to question and challenge the brokerage's accounting practices.
Recruiting
Because the workload at Ernst & Young LLP can be heavy -- especially during tax season -- the firm makes an effort to make life as comfortable as possible for its employees with interesting and rewarding perks. Check out E&Y's career page for more detail on benefits and opportunities for professional growth.
The company recently formalized its mentoring effort, requiring workers to participate and making it a part of the regular workday.