For many accountants, the Big Four firms represent the pinnacle of career success. But for Logan Philpot, a Team Leader at Moore Markhams Dunedin, career success isn’t just about the name on the door—it’s about growth, balance, and meaningful client relationships. His journey from national firms to global giants and back again proves that you don’t need to work at a Big Four to have a fulfilling and rewarding career.
A Career Built on Adaptability
With an appreciation of the importance of both practical experience and formal studies, Logan completed a trainee accounting programme in Invercargill whilst achieving an Accounting Degree at the University of Otago. With his graduation falling right in the midst of the Global Financial Crisis, this pragmatic approach paid off when he secured a graduate accountant role at BDO, where he stayed for four years.
From there, Logan spent five years at BDO in the Hawke’s Bay, before being approached by PwC for a senior accountant role.
Life at the Big Four—and the Realisation That Bigger Isn’t Always Better
Logan threw himself into Big Four life, but three years later, he hit a roadblock: career progression. With a top-heavy structure, internal promotions were rare, making it difficult to advance.
Hopeful of a different experience at another Big Four, Logan took a role at Deloitte in Dunedin. Over five years, he built on his management experience, but the pull towards something different—something more flexible and personal—began to grow.
A commercial business partner role at a waste management facility in 2022 seemed like the change he was looking for, but when the company was acquired and funding was cut, his job quickly shifted into a routine accounting role with little room for impact. That was the turning point.
Finding the Right Fit at Moore Markhams
In 2023, Logan had an initial conversation with Director Callum Hayde about a team leader role at Moore Markhams in Dunedin. It didn’t take long for him to realise that this was the right next step. Here, he found what he had been searching for: a firm that valued work-life balance, direct client relationships, and a diverse range of work.
Now settled in Dunedin with his family, Logan appreciates the flexibility Moore Markhams offers—something that wasn’t always available in his previous roles. “Work-life balance is important. My kids are important,” he says. Being part of a firm that supports that balance while still offering challenging and rewarding work has made all the difference.
From medium-sized enterprises to mum-and-dad businesses, Logan enjoys the variety in his client base. The personal connections he builds with his clients are a key part of why he loves what he does. At Moore Markhams, he has the space to grow, develop his own client base, and progress through the ranks—all without sacrificing the things that matter most.
Beyond the Office
Outside of work, Logan is what he calls a “cricket tragic.” His knees and shoulders might disagree, but his love for the game keeps him playing for the Green Island Cricket Club. When he’s not on the pitch, he enjoys golf and spending time with his two kids.
For Logan, success isn’t measured by the size of the firm, but by the quality of work, the relationships he builds, and the ability to enjoy life outside of the office. His journey is proof that you don’t need a Big Four name to have a great career—you just need the right fit.