sharing because i always look for these and they're never here.
Role: Manager, Strategy & Operations Location: NYC (some travel) YOE: 7 years, 3 in consulting Offer (2026): Base: $180k Performance bonus target: 20% (so ~$36k at target) Sign-on: $25k (1-year clawback) Total at target: ~$241k
negotiated base up from $170k. they said Manager band was $165k-$190k depending on experience, and the recruiter confirmed there was room in the sign-on but not the bonus target.
big 4 comp is still below MBB at the same level but the hours are often lower and the client diversity is real. not a crazy offer for a first big 4 role at manager.
4 replies
market_realist
that base range for Manager tracks with what i've seen floated elsewhere. did they give you visibility into the Sr. Manager band in case things move fast?
numbers_only
recruiter mentioned Sr. Manager starts around $210k base but i didn't push for more detail. promotion timeline they said is 2-3 years from Manager, not locked in.
finance_faye
the bonus target % seems right for big 4. worth knowing those bonuses can vary a lot on actual payout -- some years it's 80% of target, some years 110%. ask the recruiter what the actual payout range was over the last 3 years if you can.
alex_design
the travel piece is worth pricing in. 'some travel' at S&O can mean 40-60% depending on your client portfolio. that 20% bonus looks different after you do the math on what your time is actually worth.