In the UK, probably the most common sequence would be:
- PPL
- Hour building
- ATPL exams
- CPL
- Multi-engine IR
- Multi-crew course
You now have what is colloquially known as a "frozen ATPL", but is actually just a CPL/IR, and you can apply for jobs as first officer.
When you reach 1500 hours (as well as several other requirements, the main one being lots of multi-pilot time) you can upgrade to an ATPL. No exams, etc, required because you've done them all already.
I think I prefer the US system on the whole, but I can see the merits in both systems.
FFF
------------------