International Accounting Bulletin | Page 21

World Survey 2014 International Accounting Bulletin staff growth slowed from 7% in 2012 to 4% in 2013, while association staff growth was 2% in 2013, a drop from the 4% recorded for 2012. Of the Big Four, EY and Deloitte recorded the largest growth in global work force, with 5% growth each. Both PwC and KPMG grew by 2% in what PwC’s CollierKeywood described as a “competitive market.” As a result, the Big Four maintained the same order in headcount as in 2012, albeit with Deloitte extending its lead, and EY moving to within 10,000 staff of second-placed PwC. Differentiation According to leaders in the Big Four, differentiating themselves is impor tant when trying to attract talent. For CollierKeywood, PwC’s heavy emphasis on CSR, and the programmes it offers staff to give back to communities helps set PwC apart, while EY’s Di Sibio suggests the firm’s focus on recruitment and the fact it was ranked second in Universum’s annual World’s Most Attractive Employer ranking are important in helping the firm maintain its growth. the UK and the US.” India has also made the headlines this year, as almost a decade since its original inception, the Companies Act was finally passed, introducing 10-y