EY(Ernst & Young): Interview Preparation A Comprehensive Guide to Success

EY (Ernst & Young) is a global professional services organization headquartered in London and recognized as one of the Big Four. Operating through member firms in more than 150 countries and territories, EY provides integrated Assurance, Consulting, Strategy and Transactions, and Tax services that help strengthen trust in capital markets and accelerate transformation across sectors. Guided by its purpose - Building a better working world - EY focuses on creating long‑term value for clients, people, and society while advancing transparency, sustainability, and governance.

EY reported record global revenues of US$49.4 billion for FY23 and continues to invest heavily in technology and innovation, including artificial intelligence and data platforms, to deliver outcomes at scale. With deep industry specializations and the strategy capabilities of EY‑Parthenon, EY partners with organizations on complex issues from audit quality and regulatory change to digital transformation, M&A, and tax policy, making it a critical player in the global economy.

This comprehensive guide provides essential insights into  EY's operations, culture, and recruitment process, equipping readers with the knowledge needed to excel in interviews and understand the company's strategic direction.

1. Company Overview

About  EY

EY is a global professional services organization that helps build trust in the capital markets and supports clients through transformation and growth. Through four service lines-Assurance, Consulting, Strategy and Transactions (including EY‑Parthenon), and Tax-EY works with businesses, governments, and investors on audit quality, risk management, technology-enabled change, strategy, deals, and tax. Headquartered in London, EY operates via member firms in more than 150 countries and territories, unified by the purpose of Building a better working world and a commitment to creating long-term value.

Company History

Trace  EY's evolution through key periods, highlighting major transformations and growth phases.

• 1849 – Harding & Pullein: British accounting firm Harding & Pullein was founded, joined by Frederick Whinney.
• 1903 – Ernst & Ernst: Alwin C. Ernst and his brother founded Ernst & Ernst in Cleveland, Ohio.
• 1906 – Arthur Young & Co.: Scottish accountant Arthur Young established Arthur Young & Co. in Chicago.
• 1924 – Anglo-American Alliances: Arthur Young & Co. allied with Broads Paterson & Co., while Ernst & Ernst partnered with Whinney Smith & Whinney.
• 1979 – Ernst & Whinney: Ernst & Whinney formed as a major Anglo-American partnership, becoming the world’s fourth-largest accounting firm.
• 1989 – Ernst & Young: Ernst & Whinney merged with Arthur Young & Co. to create Ernst & Young.
• 1990s – Consulting Expansion: EY invested heavily in consulting, eventually forming EY-Parthenon after acquiring The Parthenon Group.
• 2013 – Rebranding to EY: The firm rebranded as EY with the tagline “Building a better working world.”

Key Milestones in  EY History

Critical achievements that shaped  EY's trajectory and market position.

2. Mission, Vision, and Values

Mission

This mission reflects the firm's commitment to delivering insights and quality services that help build trust and confidence in the capital markets and economies around the world. EY aims to create long-term value for clients, people and society through its purpose-driven approach.

Core Values

EY's corporate values as officially listed on its website. Do not include unrelated principles, mottos, or cultural statements.

• People who demonstrate integrity, respect and teaming: Act with integrity, respect diverse perspectives, and collaborate effectively to deliver quality outcomes.
• People with energy, enthusiasm and the courage to lead: Bring drive and optimism, take initiative, and lead boldly through change.
• People who build relationships based on doing the right thing:        Earn trust by making ethical decisions and prioritizing the public interest.

3. Comprehensive Product and Service Offerings

EY provides four integrated service lines-Assurance, Consulting, Strategy and Transactions, and Tax-supported by deep sector knowledge and technology platforms. Services range from independent financial statement audits and corporate reporting to digital and AI-enabled transformation, strategy, M&A, and cross-border tax, helping organizations manage risk, comply with regulation, and unlock sustainable growth.

1.Assurance

EY’s Assurance services enhance trust and transparency in the capital markets through independent audits and related services that improve the quality of financial and nonfinancial reporting.

• Audit (Financial Statement Audit): Independent audits of financial statements to provide reasonable assurance to investors and stakeholders, underpinned by robust methodologies and technology-enabled procedures.
• Financial Accounting Advisory Services (FAAS): Advises on corporate reporting, accounting change, complex transactions, and sustainability/ESG reporting to strengthen the relevance and reliability of disclosures.
• Forensic & Integrity Services: Helps organizations manage fraud, compliance, and dispute risks through investigations, integrity diligence, monitoring, and remediation programs.

2.Consulting

EY Consulting partners with clients to realize end-to-end transformation-combining business, technology, risk, and human-centered capabilities to deliver measurable outcomes.

• Business Consulting: Enterprise-wide transformation spanning strategy execution, finance, supply chain, customer and growth, and risk to improve performance and resilience.
• Technology Consulting: Cloud, data and analytics, AI, cybersecurity, and platform-enabled transformation delivered with leading technology alliances.
• People Advisory Services (PAS): Workforce, organization and culture, mobility, rewards, and change enablement to help organizations attract, develop, and retain talent at scale.

3.Strategy and Transactions

EY’s Strategy and Transactions service line helps clients make better capital decisions and execute complex deals, from strategy through diligence to integration or separation.

• EY‑Parthenon (Strategy): Strategy consulting focused on growth, portfolio strategy, commercial due diligence, and large-scale transformation.
• Transaction Diligence: Financial, operational, and commercial diligence that assesses value drivers and risks to inform acquisitions, investments, and divestitures.
• Turnaround and Restructuring Strategy: Performance improvement, working capital optimization, restructuring and insolvency support to protect and restore enterprise value.

4.Tax

EY Tax services help organizations meet compliance obligations and navigate evolving policy, while optimizing tax, legal, and regulatory outcomes across jurisdictions.

• Business Tax Services: Advisory and compliance services across corporate income tax, reporting, and controversy to manage risk and drive tax effectiveness.
• Indirect Tax: VAT/GST, customs and trade, and excise advisory and compliance to manage cross-border supply chains and regulatory change.
• Transfer Pricing and International Tax & Transaction Services (ITTS): Cross-border structuring, transfer pricing design and documentation, and tax aspects of deals to support sustainable international growth.

4. Key Competitors of  EY:

EY competes with Deloitte, PwC, KPMG, BDO, and Grant Thornton across audit, assurance, tax, and consulting services. These firms challenge  EY on large multinational audit mandates, technology-enabled consulting projects, and cross-border tax and deal advisory, differentiating through scale, industry specialization, and digital capabilities.

1. Deloitte

A Big Four professional services network competing directly with EY in audit, consulting, tax, and risk advisory for global enterprises.

• Overview: Deloitte Touche Tohmatsu Limited (DTTL) is a UK private company limited by guarantee with member firms in over 150 countries and territories; it is part of the Big Four.
• Services: Audit & Assurance; Consulting (strategy, operations, technology); Risk Advisory; Financial Advisory; Tax & Legal (where permitted).
• Market Position: Among the largest global professional services organizations by revenue and headcount, with a strong footprint across Fortune Global 500 clients.

2. PwC

A Big Four network that competes with EY in assurance, tax, deals, and consulting, including strategy and technology-led transformations.

• Overview: PricewaterhouseCoopers is a global network of firms operating in more than 150 countries; part of the Big Four.
• Services: Assurance; Tax; Consulting/Advisory (Strategy&, Deals, Risk, Technology); and related services.
• Market Position: One of the largest professional services networks globally with significant audit presence and established strategy consulting capabilities via Strategy&.

3. KPMG

A Big Four professional services organization competing with EY across audit, tax, and advisory services for multinational and regional clients.

• Overview: KPMG is a global organization of independent firms in more than 140 countries and territories; part of the Big Four.
• Services: Audit; Tax & Legal (where permitted); Advisory, including deal advisory, risk, and management consulting.
• Market Position: Major Big Four firm with strong presence in large corporate audits and financial services advisory worldwide.

4. BDO

A leading global mid-tier network that competes with EY particularly in middle-market audit, tax, and advisory engagements.

• Overview: BDO is a global network of public accounting, tax, and advisory firms with member firms in over 160 countries and territories.
• Services: Audit & Assurance; Tax; Advisory; and Business Services & Outsourcing.
• Market Position: One of the largest networks outside the Big Four, recognized for its middle-market focus and international coverage.

5. Grant Thornton

A global professional services network competing with EY in audit, tax, and advisory, with a strong focus on mid-market and fast-growing companies.

• Overview: Grant Thornton is a network of independent assurance, tax, and advisory firms operating in more than 130 countries.
• Services: Audit & Assurance; Tax; Advisory (transactions, risk, and performance improvement).
• Market Position: Leading mid-tier network with a substantial middle-market client base and cross-border capabilities.

5. Corporate Social Responsibility (CSR):

EY demonstrates its commitment to social impact through comprehensive Corporate Social Responsibility programs. The company's initiatives span environmental sustainability, community development, education, and social welfare, reflecting its dedication to creating positive change beyond business operations.

6. Career Opportunities at  EY

EY offers diverse career paths across its global operations, providing opportunities for professionals at various stages of their careers. The company's commitment to talent development and inclusive growth creates an environment where individuals can build meaningful and impactful careers.

Job Profiles and Departments

Explore the wide range of professional opportunities available across  EY's organizational structure:

• Assurance (Audit & Financial Accounting Advisory): Deliver independent audits under IFRS/US GAAP and local standards, assess internal controls (including SOX), and provide Financial Accounting Advisory Services (FAAS) on complex reporting, consolidation, and ESG disclosures. Skills include accounting and auditing standards, data analytics, and risk assessment. Typical progression: Associate/Staff, Senior, Manager, Senior Manager, Partner.
• Consulting (Business, Technology & Risk): Advise clients on end-to-end transformation spanning strategy execution, operating model, finance, supply chain, cybersecurity, and technology-enabled change. Roles include business consultants, program managers, technology architects, and risk/compliance specialists. Skills include problem solving, stakeholder management, cloud/ERP knowledge, data & AI, and regulatory awareness. Clear advancement pathways with sector specialization.
• Tax (Including Tax Technology & People Advisory Services): Provide corporate and international tax advisory, compliance, indirect tax (VAT/GST), transfer pricing, and tax controversy support. People Advisory Services covers mobility, rewards, and workforce tax. Tax Technology & Transformation (TTT) modernizes tax functions and data. Skills include tax law, accounting, data tools, and ERP/tax software. Progression from Analyst to Partner with opportunities to specialize by jurisdiction and industry.
• Strategy and Transactions (including EY-Parthenon): Support clients across growth strategy, commercial due diligence, M&A, valuation and modeling, turnaround, and integration/separation. EY-Parthenon focuses on corporate, transaction, and turnaround strategy. Skills include financial modeling, market analysis, and corporate finance. Career paths include sector-led and capability-led tracks, with opportunities for cross-border deals and leadership roles.
• Technology (Data, AI, Cloud & Cybersecurity): Design and deliver technology solutions leveraging cloud (Azure/AWS/GCP), data engineering, analytics, and cybersecurity to drive client outcomes. Increasing focus on generative AI via EY.ai and platform engineering (e.g., EY Fabric, EY Nexus). Skills include Python/SQL, data architecture, AI/ML, cloud certifications, DevSecOps, and security frameworks. Multiple certification-led career pathways.
• Core Business Services & Global Delivery Services (CBS & GDS): CBS includes Finance, HR/Talent, IT, Legal, Risk Management, Knowledge, and Brand/Marketing to enable client service. GDS provides multi-disciplinary delivery at scale across assurance, consulting, tax, and SaT. Skills vary by function, emphasizing process excellence, digital tools, and collaboration. Clear internal mobility and leadership development opportunities.

Growth and Development Opportunities

EY invests significantly in employee development through structured programs and initiatives:

• EY Tech MBA by Hult: A fully accredited, virtual MBA offered in collaboration with Hult International Business School, available at no direct cost to eligible EY people. It integrates business, technology, and leadership learning designed around real client scenarios and is earned through coursework, assessments, and demonstration of applied impact.
• EY Badges: A global, stackable digital credentialing program that builds skills in areas such as data analytics, AI, cybersecurity, sustainability/ESG, and inclusive leadership. Badges progress from foundational to advanced/specialist levels and are recognized across service lines to support promotion and mobility.
• Global Mobility and Cross-Border Experience: Opportunities for short-term projects, secondments, and international assignments, including collaboration with Global Delivery Services teams. Cross-functional exposure enables professionals to work on multi-country engagements and develop a truly global perspective.
• Innovation and Collaboration (EY wavespace): Access to EY wavespace sessions and innovation hubs that bring together multidisciplinary teams to co-create solutions using design thinking and emerging technologies. Professionals gain hands-on experience with new tools and methods, building intrapreneurial skills.
• Diversity, Equity & Inclusion and Wellbeing: Firmwide programs and employee networks support an inclusive culture and psychological safety. Flexible working, wellbeing resources, and country-specific benefits are designed to sustain high performance while supporting work-life balance.

7. Future Outlook and Strategic Plans

This section presents  EY's official strategic direction based on investor presentations, press releases, and sustainability reports. All information is sourced from verified company communications and reflects confirmed initiatives and goals.

EY's future strategy is structured around key focus areas designed to align with global market trends and industry evolution:

1. Digital and AI Transformation

EY is embedding artificial intelligence and digital capabilities across its services and internal operations to deliver higher-quality work, better insights, and faster time to value. The firm launched EY.ai as a unifying platform for AI-enabled services and assets, underpinned by responsible AI practices and strong data governance. Through alliances with leading cloud and software providers, EY codesigns industry solutions that combine domain expertise with secure, enterprise-grade technologies. EY is also upskilling its global workforce through structured learning pathways so that teams can apply AI safely and effectively in assurance, tax, consulting, and strategy. Proprietary platforms such as EY Fabric and EY Nexus help standardize, scale, and productize these capabilities.

• Global launch of EY.ai and the EY.ai EYQ large language model to support trusted, enterprise AI adoption.
• Expansion of the EY–Microsoft alliance to deliver generative AI solutions on Azure OpenAI Service for priority sectors and functions.
• Ongoing development of EY Fabric and EY Nexus platforms to accelerate data, cloud, and productized service delivery.
• Firmwide AI learning pathways delivered via EY Badges and the EY Tech MBA with progressive rollout across 2023–2025.

2. Sustainability and ESG Goals

EY integrates environmental and social priorities into both its own operations and client services. The firm has committed to science-based decarbonization aligned to a 1.5°C pathway and has publicly targeted net zero. It advances renewable electricity adoption, travel reduction initiatives, and responsible sourcing while improving the quality and transparency of sustainability reporting. EY’s Climate Change and Sustainability Services support clients with strategy, decarbonization roadmaps, regulatory reporting (including CSRD and ISSB), and ESG-driven transformation. Social impact is advanced through EY Ripples, which mobilizes EY people and alliances to support entrepreneurs, the next generation workforce, and environmental sustainability at scale.

• Net-zero commitment targeted for 2025, underpinned by science-based emissions reduction goals.
• 100% renewable electricity across EY’s global operations by 2025 in line with RE100 participation.
• Sustained carbon-negative position since 2021 with a continued focus on absolute emissions reduction before high-quality offsets.
• EY Ripples ambition to positively impact one billion lives by 2030 through skills-based volunteering and collaborations.

3. Market Expansion

EY plans to deepen market presence by scaling sector-centric solutions and expanding managed services, underpinned by strategic technology alliances. The firm continues to invest in Global Delivery Services (GDS) to provide globally integrated, cost-effective delivery, and in specialized offerings such as Tax and Finance Operate, Risk Managed Services, and cybersecurity. EY is prioritizing opportunities in growth markets across the Americas, EMEIA, and Asia-Pacific while strengthening its leadership positions in financial services, energy, health, consumer, technology, and government. Alliances with hyperscalers and leading software providers broaden EY’s routes to market and accelerate solution deployment.

• Scaling Global Delivery Services (GDS) across locations such as India, Poland, and the Philippines to support multi-country programs.
• Continued investment in alliances with Microsoft, SAP, ServiceNow, Salesforce, Google Cloud, and AWS to extend market reach.
• Expansion of managed services (e.g., Tax and Finance Operate, Risk Managed Services) to meet demand for operate models.
• Sector-focused go-to-market strategies for financial services, energy, health, consumer, and technology clients.

4. Innovation and R&D

EY invests in solution engineering, platform development, and collaborative innovation to deliver repeatable, technology-enabled services. The firm uses its wavespace network to co-create with clients and partners, building assets that embed analytics, AI, and automation. Multi-year investments strengthen audit quality, data platforms, and productized offerings that can scale across geographies. EY prioritizes responsible technology development, model risk management, and governance to ensure innovations are safe, reliable, and compliant. Partnerships with technology leaders and academic institutions complement internal R&D to accelerate time-to-market for new services.

• US$10b multi-year global investment announced in 2021 across audit quality, technology, and people to advance platform-led services.
• Enhancements to EY Fabric and sector platforms (including EY Nexus) to industrialize data- and cloud-led delivery.
• Co-innovation programs via EY wavespace with leading technology partners and universities.
• Development of responsible AI methods, model risk controls, and reusable IP assets embedded in client delivery.

5. Talent and Workforce Strategy

EY’s people strategy focuses on continuous learning, inclusive leadership, and flexible teaming. The firm provides large-scale upskilling through EY Badges and the EY Tech MBA, complemented by role-based academies and on-the-job coaching. Diversity, equity, and inclusion remain core priorities, supported by global networks and accountability mechanisms. Mobility programs create international opportunities, while digital collaboration standards enable high-performance hybrid work. The goal is to build multidisciplinary teams that are technically strong, ethically grounded, and capable of applying emerging technologies responsibly and at scale.

• Firmwide upskilling through EY Badges and the EY Tech MBA, including dedicated AI learning pathways.
• Global DE&I programs and employee networks supporting gender, LGBTQ+, ethnicity, disability, and neurodiversity inclusion.
• Cross-border teaming and mobility, including secondments and GDS-enabled career pathways.
• Hybrid work standards and digital collaboration practices to support flexibility and performance.

6. Financial Performance Goals

As a private partnership,  EY emphasizes quality, long-term value creation, and reinvestment over short-term financial guidance. Capital is prioritized for audit quality, technology platforms (including AI), managed services, and talent development. Operational efficiency is pursued through standardized global platforms and delivery centers, while maintaining the firm’s commitment to independence and professional standards. Public forward-looking revenue or profitability targets are not issued; instead, EY communicates strategic investment priorities and progress through annual reports and sustainability disclosures.

• Investment priorities centered on technology platforms (including EY.ai), audit quality, and managed services capabilities.
• Operational efficiency via standardized platforms, global delivery centers, and process modernization.
• Not applicable: no public dividend or share buyback policy as  EY operates as a private partnership.
• Quality-first growth with ongoing reinvestment to enhance capabilities and client service; no published revenue guidance.

8. Latest News & Updates about  EY

Stay informed about  EY's recent developments, announcements, and industry recognition through curated news coverage.

9. Conclusion

EY is one of the world’s leading professional services organizations, grounded in its purpose of building a better working world. With multidisciplinary strengths in Assurance, Consulting, Tax, and Strategy and Transactions, the firm combines deep sector knowledge with technology platforms such as EY.ai, EY Fabric, and EY Nexus. EY’s verified commitments include science-based decarbonization and a 2025 net-zero target, alongside investments that enhance audit quality and digital capabilities. Backed by global alliances and integrated delivery, EY is positioned to help clients navigate regulatory change, AI adoption, and sustainability reporting while maintaining uncompromising professional standards.

For candidates, EY offers meaningful careers across service lines, industries, and geographies. Well-defined learning pathways like EY Badges and the EY Tech MBA, global mobility options, and exposure to cutting-edge technologies create strong foundations for growth. An inclusive culture, flexible teaming, and values-led leadership enable professionals to make a measurable impact for clients and society. Whether your path leads to assurance quality, tech-enabled transformation, tax innovation, or deal strategy, EY provides the platform, mentorship, and tools to accelerate your development and contribute to complex, high-stakes projects.

Key Takeaways for Aspiring  EY Candidates

• Research and Preparation: Thoroughly understand  EY's business model, recent developments, and strategic initiatives. Stay updated on industry trends and the company's competitive positioning to demonstrate genuine interest and knowledge during interviews.
• Cultural Alignment: Familiarize yourself with  EY's values, mission, and corporate culture. Prepare examples from your experience that demonstrate alignment with these principles and showcase how you can contribute to the company's objectives.
• Technical Competency: Develop relevant skills and knowledge specific to your target role at  EY. Understand the technical requirements and industry standards that apply to your area of interest within the organization.
• Industry Awareness: Stay informed about broader industry trends, challenges, and opportunities that affect  EY's business. This knowledge will help you engage in meaningful discussions about the company's strategic direction and market position.