In South Africa, much like the rest of the world, the top accounting firms set the bar high for professionalism, career development and financial expertise.
Whether you’re a student with an eye on a career in accounting, or a mid-level professional looking for ways to skill up to apply for positions at the biggest accounting firms in South Africa, there are good reasons to aim for blue chip companies and accounting firms.
These firms don’t just crunch numbers. They shape economies, steer businesses through crises, and train the next generation of finance professionals. So, if you’ve ever wondered which firm might suit your goals, how to join one, or what the difference between an accountant and auditor really is, then this article is for you.
Keep reading to find out about dynamic landscape of accounting in South Africa as well as who’s-who, what they offer and how to kickstart your career in one of the most rewarding industries out there.
Meet the Big Four: The Powerhouses of Accounting
In the process of becoming a chartered accountant in South Africa, you’ll quickly come across four names again and again: Deloitte, PwC, EY, and KPMG.
Collectively known as the Big Four, these global firms have long-standing operations in South Africa, with offices in Johannesburg, Cape Town, Durban, and beyond.
The largest professional services firm globally, Deloitte South Africa is a powerhouse in auditing, consulting, risk advisory, tax, and corporate finance. They’re also known for their comprehensive graduate development programmes, offering top-tier training for aspiring Chartered Accountants (CAs).
What makes Deloitte stand out is its focus on innovation and technology. If you’re someone interested in data analytics, AI in finance, or fintech consulting, this might just be your perfect match.
There’s no doubt, PwC is synonymous with prestige and precision. As one of the biggest accounting firms in South Africa, it offers an incredible network for career mobility—not just locally, but globally. Their graduate programmes are highly structured and supportive, focusing on mentorship, client exposure, and personal growth.
PwC’s commitment to ethics and transparency also makes it an ideal training ground for anyone curious about the difference between an accountant and auditor - because here, you’ll likely explore both.
EY leans into innovation and sustainability and blends traditional services with emerging needs like ESG reporting and climate risk advisory. If you’re in the process of becoming a chartered accountant in South Africa, this is a firm where your passion for making a meaningful impact will be appreciated.
For young professionals, EY also offers flexible work options, wellness initiatives, and an inclusive culture. In short, it is a very human place to build a numbers-based career.
KPMG South Africa has been a cornerstone for auditing services in the country for decades. Despite facing reputational challenges in recent years, the firm’s strong foundations have not waivered, and it continues to focus on ethics, governance, and training.
KPMG also offers hands-on exposure from day one. If you want to be close to the action and learning from senior auditors and clients from day one, this firm is for you.
To attract the attention of the Big Four, you’ll need stellar results, and that’s where accounting tutors make all the difference.
Beyond the Big Four: Other Top Contenders
While the Big Four dominate in size and reputation, they’re not the only players worth looking at. There are several other top accounting firms in South Africa offering world-class services and exciting career paths.
BDO South Africa
BDO offers much of what the Big Four does but in a more intimate, personalised setting. Known for their approachable culture and strong client relationships, BDO is ideal if you want meaningful mentorship and room to grow.
Mazars South Africa
With French roots and a global presence, Mazars combines international standards with local insight. They’re strong in auditing, advisory, and tax services, and particularly focused on building diverse, inclusive teams.
SNG Grant Thornton
SNG Grant Thornton stands out as one of the few truly homegrown firms to make it onto the list of biggest accounting firms in South Africa. With a strong transformation agenda, they’re focused on uplifting local talent and promoting equity in the industry.
PKF South Africa
If you’re looking for a firm with entrepreneurial flair, PKF could be your match. They offer everything from auditing and accounting to business rescue services. Here, you’ll have a front-row seat to some of the most dynamic elements of finance while you are in the process of becoming a chartered accountant in South Africa.
What These Firms Offer (Beyond the Obvious)
All of the top accounting firms in South Africa provide the essentials - auditing, tax, advisory, and risk services. But what really sets them apart is how they develop their people.
Most firms offer structured graduate programmes that form part of the process of becoming a Chartered Accountant in South Africa. This typically involves completing a SAICA-accredited degree, followed by a three-year training contract (aka your “articles”) and a couple of crucial board exams (ITC and APC).
If you’re studying toward this path, you’ll also appreciate knowing that many firms partner with accounting tutors and offer internal support programmes to help you pass those all-important exams. For additional support, consider an accounting lesson.
Don’t forget that internships are also a big part of the picture. Firms like Deloitte and PwC offer paid winter or summer internships to give you a taste of the work and culture before you commit.
So, What’s the Difference Between an Accountant and Auditor?
It’s a good question - and one that comes up often.
An accountant is typically responsible for preparing financial records, handling bookkeeping, managing payroll, and ensuring tax compliance. Think of them as the ones who prepare and present the numbers.
An auditor, on the other hand, comes in after the fact to verify the accuracy and integrity of those records. Auditors provide an independent assessment to stakeholders (like shareholders or regulators) about whether the financials are trustworthy.
Most Chartered Accountants will do their training within auditing departments at large firms, which is why understanding the difference between an accountant and auditor is such an important part of your early career decision-making.
While you're exploring this topic, why not look into how bookkeeper differs from accounting?
How to Get a Job at a Top Accounting Firm
The journey usually starts at university. Most of the biggest accounting firms in South Africa recruit from top institutions like UCT, Wits, Stellenbosch, UP, and UJ - but increasingly, they’re also casting their nets wider to find talent in unexpected places.
Here’s what they typically look for:
- Strong academic performance in a SAICA-accredited BCom or similar qualification
- Good communication skills and problem-solving ability
- A passion for numbers, but also a genuine curiosity about business
Remember that while the process of becoming a Chartered Accountant in South Africa is competitive, it’s also well-supported. Firms offer bursaries, study leave, mentorship, and sometimes even partner with external accounting tutors to support trainees through their exams.
Internships are highly recommended. Not only do they boost your CV, but they give you a taste of the firm’s culture and expectations. Many interns return as full-time trainees.
Why Work for a Top Accounting Firm?
Let’s be real - yes, the hours can be long. But the rewards? They’re more than worth it.
Working for one of the top accounting firms in South Africa gives you unmatched exposure to industries, clients, and real-world challenges. You’ll build technical skills, work with smart people, and start forming a professional network that can carry you for life.
And if international travel is your thing?
Most firms have global secondment programmes, allowing you to work in London, New York, or Dubai within a few years of qualifying.
Besides that, you’ll also benefit from:
- Career coaching and mentorship
- Diverse and inclusive work environments
- Flexible work policies
- Clear growth paths from trainee to partner
Whether you want to become a specialist auditor or pivot into business leadership, these firms offer a launchpad like no other.
How to Plan for Your Future Now
If you’re dreaming of becoming a CA(SA), now’s the time to explore your options. Invest in accounting tutors for the best results, check out the entry requirements for different university accounting programmes, and look into the top accounting firms in South Africa. Don’t stop there - attend career expos, apply for internships, and don’t be afraid to ask questions about company culture and growth opportunities.
The process of becoming a Chartered Accountant in South Africa is demanding, but with the right support and a bit of grit, it’s more than achievable. Building a solid foundation by working with private accounting tutors from the early stages of your studies can truly pay off in the long run.
So go ahead, do your research, reach out, and take that first step.
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