Just left Capital One after the bulk of my time in Corp Strat, former AP at MBB. Great money, terrible experience. I was a highly paid slide writer. They promised great roles in the business and a path up - completely false. There are few business roles available, and no Corp Strat hire since 2017 has made it past MVP in the lines of business. Tread with caution.

So does anyone who actually works at a major consulting firm (big 4 or MBB) or other top tier 2 firms have a good work life balance/realistic work expectations and semi-caring managers? Or is it really all just cutthroat and ruthless everywhere?

Director at KPMG 190k base. Annual bonus is basically all politics so can get anywhere from zero to 15k any year no matter my performance which is extremely frustrating. Prob 2 years to MD but not sure if I wanna go all the way to partner (the constant travel away from family seems rough). Have an exit offer to healthcare industry director level for $232k but they do not do bonuses. Benefits roughly the same and the new position is 100% remote. Is this a no brainer?

I hear Accenture is going through tough times. Things are difficult at McKinsey as well. Losing talent everywhere. Recent graduates are not looking at McKinsey or Accenture as best careers. How long will this last?

Have an offer to go to a series B startup with about 200 total employees. Base comp 275k vs 215k at D. Up for SM this year (second try). Have a strong network. Debating whether slow and steady is the way or if I should shoot my shot and take the risk of startup life. Anyone with experience making that jump? Married with two kids in elementary school if that matters.