Practice vs Industry

Both have their pros and cons. I am in industry at the moment but initially accepted practice/BIG 4
In the context of UK and Ireland I could say
Industry
Pros
Exposure to financial reporting- posting journals, bank recs, management accounts
Usually ACCA focussed so flexible exam sittings
There is more work life balance
Shorter hours, I always leave the office at 5
Salary and bonus is competitive and usually better than practice
More understanding to exam failure.

Cons
Less study leave than practice
Progression can be a grey area after you become qualified as, if finance manager or controller do not leave positions opportunities within the organisations are limited
Your role may be specialised in the finance function, it may be difficult to get cover for your tasks when you are absent/holiday
Do not have a lot of collegeas sitting exams to share tips and advice as some could be from different account bodies and have sat exams years ago
Practice
Pros:
More career progression and opportunities
More study leave 4-8 weeks
a large pool of colleagues will be sitting exams at the same time,
career path is very clear ie A1, A2 senior associate to manager
Cons:
Long hours- busy season could be in the office till late
Not much movement within department within the training contract
Salary is usually lower than practice
Exam sittings are once or twice a year
Contract is very strict if you fail an exam once or twice the employer can sack you

Personally i am happy in industry. i would have switched to industry after a big practice so i just choose to go with industry from the beginning. you can get a good job either route on my team most people came from practice. Most employers focus on experience and being qualified. the market for accountants is very strong so you will always find a job