Baker Tilly Consulting: Careers, Culture, and Firm Overview

Baker Tilly is one of the largest accounting and consulting firms in the United States, known for combining financial expertise with innovative business strategy. As part of the global Baker Tilly International network, the firm offers professionals diverse opportunities to work across assurance, tax, and advisory services. Whether you’re exploring Baker Tilly consulting as a career path or curious about its culture, internships, and growth opportunities, this guide covers everything you need to know.

In this article, we will explore Baker Tilly’s history, practice areas, work culture, recruitment process, and what it takes to build a rewarding career at the firm.

TL;DR - What You Need to Know

• Baker Tilly is a leading accounting and consulting firm known for its global reach, mid-market expertise, and people-focused culture.
• The firm’s consulting and advisory services span assurance, tax, risk management, and digital transformation across industries like healthcare, finance, and real estate.
• Baker Tilly careers offer structured growth, mentorship, and leadership development, with promotions every 2 to 3 years based on performance.
• Students can join through Baker Tilly internship programs that provide hands-on client experience and clear paths to full-time roles.
• The average Baker Tilly consulting salary ranges from $83K to $120K, with strong advancement potential and diverse exit opportunities across industries.

What Is Baker Tilly Known For?

Baker Tilly is known for being a leading accounting and consulting firm that delivers assurance, tax, and advisory services to clients across multiple industries. The firm stands out for its strong mid-market focus, people-first culture, and global reach through the Baker Tilly International network.

Headquartered in Chicago, Baker Tilly operates in over 140 territories worldwide, offering professionals opportunities to work on cross-border projects and multinational client engagements. Its consulting practice focuses on helping organizations enhance efficiency, manage risk, and achieve strategic growth through data-driven and practical solutions.

Key areas that define Baker Tilly’s reputation include:

• Commitment to quality and client service across assurance, tax, and advisory practices
• Industry specialization in financial services, healthcare, real estate, and manufacturing
• Focus on digital innovation and sustainability initiatives within its consulting offerings
• Strong internal culture emphasizing collaboration, professional development, and inclusion

The firm’s recognition as one of the “Best Places to Work” highlights its emphasis on employee well-being and leadership accessibility. With its balance of global perspective and local expertise, Baker Tilly continues to be known for blending traditional accounting strengths with forward-thinking consulting capabilities.

The History and Growth of Baker Tilly

Baker Tilly’s history dates back to 1931 when Ed Virchow founded an accounting firm in Waterloo, Wisconsin, during the Great Depression. What began as a small local practice offering audit services to canning companies grew into one of the largest accounting and consulting firms in the United States.

Over the decades, Baker Tilly expanded through strategic mergers and regional partnerships, strengthening its presence across the Midwest and eventually nationwide. In 1953, the firm joined the Baker Tilly International network, giving it a platform for international collaboration and cross-border expertise.

By 2009, the company officially adopted the Baker Tilly name, aligning its U.S. operations with the global network’s brand identity. Today, Baker Tilly operates in more than 140 territories and employs thousands of professionals worldwide.

Key milestones in Baker Tilly’s growth include:

• Expansion through mergers with regional CPA and consulting firms across the U.S.
• Integration into Baker Tilly International to serve multinational clients
• Development of new service areas, including Baker Tilly Digital and ESG consulting
• Celebrating over 90 years in business in 2022, marking a legacy of sustained growth and innovation

Baker Tilly’s journey reflects its consistent ability to evolve with changing economic conditions and client needs, transforming from a local accounting practice into a global consulting and advisory leader.

What Does Baker Tilly Consulting Do? Practice Areas and Services

Baker Tilly consulting provides a wide range of professional services spanning assurance, tax, advisory, and specialized consulting. The firm helps clients improve operations, manage financial risk, and accelerate growth through data-driven strategies and digital transformation initiatives.

Baker Tilly’s service lines are organized across three primary pillars:

• Assurance and Audit: Providing independent financial audits, internal controls assessments, and compliance reviews to strengthen transparency and trust.
• Tax Services: Offering business and individual tax planning, regulatory compliance, and international tax strategies that align with evolving financial requirements.
• Consulting and Advisory: Supporting clients in strategic planning, transactions, risk management, performance improvement, and technology integration.

Within these core practices, Baker Tilly has expanded into high-growth areas such as ESG advisory, Baker Tilly Digital, and risk advisory, helping companies navigate modern business challenges with innovative, technology-enabled solutions.

The firm also tailors its expertise to a variety of industries, including healthcare, real estate, financial services, manufacturing, and the public sector. This industry-specific approach allows consultants to apply deep functional knowledge while adapting solutions to each client’s unique environment.

For aspiring professionals, Baker Tilly consulting offers the opportunity to work at the intersection of accounting, strategy, and innovation, making it a strong career choice for those seeking a blend of analytical and advisory experience.

Inside Baker Tilly’s Culture, Values, and Work Environment

Baker Tilly’s culture emphasizes collaboration, personal growth, and a genuine commitment to inclusion. The firm is known for fostering an environment where employees can easily seek guidance from senior leaders and build strong peer relationships while pursuing meaningful professional development.

At its core, Baker Tilly’s workplace culture is shaped by three guiding values: integrity, passion, and stewardship. These principles influence how teams operate, make decisions, and engage with clients. The firm’s leadership encourages openness, mentorship, and community engagement across all levels.

Employees frequently highlight the accessibility of management and the strong sense of support within teams. At the same time, Baker Tilly actively promotes diversity, equity, and inclusion through initiatives like GROW (Growth and Retention of Women) and SOAR (Supporting Opportunity, Advancement, and Recognition for All).

Key elements that define life at Baker Tilly include:

• Emphasis on mentorship, collaboration, and continuous learning
• Opportunities for cross-functional projects and client exposure early in one’s career
• Flexible work policies and a growing focus on work-life balance
• Recognition programs that celebrate innovation and leadership potential

While workloads can be demanding during peak project cycles, the firm continually invests in improving employee well-being and engagement. This balanced culture of challenge and support makes Baker Tilly an attractive destination for consulting and accounting professionals seeking growth in a people-centered environment.

Baker Tilly Careers and Opportunities for Growth

Baker Tilly careers offer a wide range of opportunities across accounting, assurance, tax, and consulting roles. The firm is known for its structured promotion path, hands-on training programs, and emphasis on developing leadership skills from the early stages of one’s career.

At Baker Tilly, career progression typically follows a transparent ladder starting from entry-level associate or analyst roles and advancing through senior associate, manager, director, and partner levels. The average time between promotions ranges from two to three years, depending on performance and experience.

Professionals benefit from a mix of technical and soft-skill development programs designed to prepare them for client leadership and cross-functional collaboration. The firm also offers rotational assignments and opportunities for international mobility through the Baker Tilly International network.

Key highlights of Baker Tilly career development include:

• Structured onboarding and mentorship programs for new hires
• Ongoing technical training in tax, audit, and consulting specializations
• Leadership development tracks for high-performing employees
• Opportunities to work across industries such as healthcare, real estate, and financial services

Employees often cite the firm’s approachable leadership and investment in professional growth as key reasons for long-term retention. Baker Tilly careers combine clear advancement potential with a supportive learning culture that empowers consultants to take ownership of their development.

Baker Tilly Internship and Early Career Programs

Baker Tilly internship programs offer students and recent graduates hands-on experience in accounting, tax, and consulting. These programs provide early exposure to client projects, mentorship opportunities, and a clear path toward full-time employment.

Most Baker Tilly internships run for 6 to 12 weeks during the summer, targeting juniors and seniors pursuing degrees in accounting, finance, or business. Interns work alongside experienced professionals, gaining practical insight into assurance, tax, and advisory engagements.

The firm also offers specialized programs like the Future Forward Internship and Winter Audit Internships, which help students explore niche service areas and prepare for CPA or consulting careers.

Key features of Baker Tilly internship opportunities include:

• Comprehensive orientation and training sessions
• Real client assignments to develop technical and analytical skills
• Direct mentorship from managers and senior associates
• Networking events and inclusion in firmwide activities

Successful interns often receive return offers for entry-level positions, making these programs one of the most direct routes into a long-term Baker Tilly career. The firm’s emphasis on learning and professional growth ensures each intern builds both technical expertise and consulting confidence.

Baker Tilly Consulting Salary and Career Progression

The average Baker Tilly consulting salary ranges from approximately $83,000 to $88,000 for consultants, increasing to around $120,000 or more for senior roles. Compensation varies based on location, experience, and service line, with competitive benefits and performance-based bonuses.

In accounting and assurance roles, salaries typically start between $60,000 and $75,000 for entry-level positions. Consulting roles generally offer slightly higher pay due to client-facing responsibilities and project-based work.

Typical career progression follows this structure:

• Associate or Analyst (Entry Level)
• Senior Associate (2 to 3 years)
• Manager (4 to 6 years)
• Senior Manager or Director (7 to 9 years)
• Partner or Principal (10+ years)

Baker Tilly rewards consistent performance with accelerated promotion opportunities, leadership training, and exposure to high-impact client work. The firm’s compensation model reflects its commitment to merit-based advancement and professional development.

For candidates considering long-term growth, Baker Tilly’s combination of structured progression, skill-building programs, and competitive salary makes it a compelling career destination.

The Baker Tilly Interview Process and How to Prepare

The Baker Tilly interview process is designed to evaluate both technical ability and cultural fit. Candidates typically go through multiple rounds, including behavioral and case-style interviews, to assess problem-solving, communication, and teamwork skills.

The process often begins with an online application followed by a phone or virtual screening. Successful applicants then move on to interviews with hiring managers or partners. Behavioral questions focus on collaboration, adaptability, and motivation for joining Baker Tilly.

Common Baker Tilly interview questions include:

• Tell me about a time you solved a difficult problem in a team.
• How do you handle change in a fast-paced work environment?
• Why do you want to work for Baker Tilly?

Preparation tips for Baker Tilly interviews:

• Review the firm’s core values and recent consulting projects
• Practice concise behavioral answers using the STAR method
• Familiarize yourself with tax, audit, or consulting fundamentals depending on the role
• Prepare thoughtful questions about the firm’s culture and growth opportunities

The firm values authenticity, curiosity, and collaboration, so strong interpersonal skills are just as important as technical knowledge. Candidates who can demonstrate initiative and alignment with Baker Tilly’s mission have the best chance of success.

Career Path, Exit Opportunities, and Alumni Network

A career at Baker Tilly provides strong foundations for advancement both within the firm and beyond. Many professionals use their consulting or accounting experience as a springboard into roles in finance, corporate strategy, or the public sector.

Typical exit opportunities for Baker Tilly alumni include positions at Fortune 500 companies, government agencies, startups, and nonprofit organizations. The firm’s reputation for rigorous client service and analytical problem-solving helps professionals transition smoothly into leadership roles elsewhere.

Baker Tilly also maintains a global alumni network that connects current and former employees across industries. This network fosters collaboration, career mentorship, and professional opportunities long after leaving the firm.

For consultants and accountants seeking a well-rounded career foundation, Baker Tilly offers the training, network, and brand recognition needed to succeed in both consulting and business leadership.

Is Baker Tilly a Good Firm to Work For?

Yes, Baker Tilly is considered a good firm to work for due to its collaborative culture, professional growth opportunities, and strong work-life balance initiatives. The firm consistently ranks among the best employers in the accounting and consulting industry.

Employees value the accessibility of leadership, meaningful client exposure, and flexibility in hybrid work arrangements. Baker Tilly’s commitment to inclusion through programs like GROW and SOAR enhances employee engagement and retention.

However, like many consulting and accounting firms, workload intensity can fluctuate during peak audit or tax seasons. Despite this, the firm’s supportive management and investment in well-being programs make it a top choice for professionals seeking long-term growth.

Baker Tilly’s blend of culture, opportunity, and global reach positions it as one of the most respected mid-tier consulting and accounting firms for both entry-level and experienced professionals.

Frequently Asked Questions

Q: What makes Baker Tilly different from the Big 4?
A: Baker Tilly is considered a top mid-tier accounting and consulting firm known for its strong assurance, tax, and advisory services. As part of Baker Tilly International, it ranks among the largest global professional services networks.

Q: Is it hard to get hired at Baker Tilly?
A: Getting hired at Baker Tilly can be moderately competitive, especially for consulting and internship roles. Strong academic performance, leadership experience, and alignment with the firm’s culture and values increase your chances of success.

Q: Does Baker Tilly have good benefits?
A: Yes, Baker Tilly offers competitive benefits, including health coverage, retirement plans, and paid time off. Employees also highlight flexibility, wellness programs, and professional development opportunities as key parts of the firm’s culture.

Q: How much do partners at Baker Tilly make?
A: Partners at Baker Tilly typically earn between $300,000 and $600,000 annually, depending on experience, service line, and performance. Compensation reflects the firm’s strong position in accounting and consulting within the mid-tier market.

Q: Is Baker Tilly growing?
A: Yes, Baker Tilly is growing rapidly through strategic mergers and expansion across the U.S. and internationally. The firm continues to strengthen its consulting and advisory services to compete with top professional services networks.