Vault’s Verdict

NOTE: BKD did not participate in our most recent Accounting Survey; data here is from previous years' surveys.

BKD is looking for smart, motivated, talented, and hardworking candidates. The firm offers its staff many career development opportunities, including good training and mentor programs. The culture at BKD is said to be collaborative and congenial, and a healthy work/life balance can be achieved. Compensation is fair, according to insiders, and with respect to diversity hiring, the firm's staff says there are many female partners. In general, insiders are satisfied with their jobs.

Hiring Process

• "Looking for smart, motivated, talented, hardworking, open-minded, career-oriented students who have a good work ethic."

Career Development

• "BKD is a great place to work and to make a career. It is rewarding both professionally and financially."

• "Good training, and mentor programs are strong but need improvement."

• "Formal training every year, as well as monthly lunch and learns."

Quality of Life

• "I enjoy all the different challenges that I am given. I feel like the hours are manageable, and everybody pitches in if the work load is un-even."

• "There is at least one night where we all go out together after dinner to socialize. Frequent Friday night happy hours are attended by managers and staff."

• "As I get older, I value my personal time away from the job more. When you are young, you should expect to work longer hours."

• "Our office promotes work/life balance and teamwork. Partners have an open-door policy and even eat in the lunch room with us."

Salary and Benefits

• "Public accounting demands 2,500+ total hours per year. The rewards are worth the effort."

• "Compensation may be fair but on the low side. Young staff need cash, and we have lost several just to the fact that another firm will pay more."

• "No bonuses, but I feel like I am very well compensated."

Diversity, Philanthropy, and Green Initiatives

• "Many women partners, and the firm seems to work with women on maternity leave. Mainly a Midwest firm, so there doesn't appear to be a lot of minorities, but that could because of the towns we're in. Have seen many women come back from maternity leave to work on a part-time schedule, and then jump back to full time when they’re ready."

• "Actively pursue all qualified candidates without regard to race, gender, or sexual orientation."

Business Outlook

• "We are being pushed to find new business."

• "Our industry focus seems to foster growth."