Smith + Howard Company Profile

Background

Overview

Smith + Howard is a tax, accounting, advisory, and consulting firm headquartered in Atlanta, Georgia, with a global presence. Established in 1971, the firm has built a reputation for delivering exceptional value to its clients, employees, and the community. The firm's mission is to create extraordinary value through responsive, personal service, and its vision is to be a nationally recognized brand grounded in client success and community impact.

Mission and Vision

Mission: To create extraordinary value for clients, people, and the community through responsive, personal service.

Vision: To become a nationally recognized brand while remaining grounded in client success and community impact.

Primary Area of Focus

Smith + Howard specializes in providing comprehensive services, including audit, tax, international tax, transfer pricing, cyber risk compliance, R&D tax credits, and SOC reporting. Through its Family of Companies, the firm also offers wealth management, sales and use tax, property tax, management consulting, finance consulting, human capital consulting, and executive search services.

Industry Significance

The firm has earned national recognition for both performance and workplace culture. In 2025, Smith + Howard ranked #83 on INSIDE Public Accounting’s Top 500 CPA Firms and #10 on The Atlanta Journal-Constitution’s Top Workplaces for Mid-Size Companies. Additionally, the firm received its inaugural USA Today Top Workplaces honor.

Key Strategic Focus

Core Objectives

Expand national presence while maintaining personalized client service.

Enhance service offerings through strategic acquisitions and internal growth.

Foster a culture of mentorship, integrity, and innovation.

Specific Areas of Specialization

Audit and assurance services.

Tax planning and compliance, including international tax and transfer pricing.

Cyber risk management and compliance.

Research and development tax credits.

Wealth management and financial planning.

Key Technologies Utilized

Advanced data analytics for audit and assurance services.

Cybersecurity tools for risk management.

Financial planning software for wealth management.

Primary Markets Targeted

Privately held businesses.

Nonprofit organizations.

National and global businesses across various industries, including construction, distribution, healthcare, hospitality, manufacturing, real estate, technology, and transportation.

Financials and Funding

Funding History

In November 2022, Smith + Howard secured a strategic investment from Broad Sky Partners, a private equity firm. This partnership has facilitated the firm's expansion and acquisition strategies.

Total Funds Raised

The exact total funds raised are not publicly disclosed.

Notable Investors

Broad Sky Partners.

Intended Utilization of Capital

Support strategic acquisitions to expand geographic footprint and service capabilities.

Invest in technology and infrastructure to enhance service delivery.

Foster talent development and retention initiatives.

Pipeline Development

Key Pipeline Candidates

Smith + Howard has been actively expanding its service offerings and geographic presence through strategic acquisitions:

Market Street Partners: In August 2023, the firm merged with Market Street Partners, a Chattanooga-based accounting and advisory firm, to enhance its presence in the Southeastern U.S.

Stages of Development

Market Street Partners Acquisition: Completed in August 2023.

Target Conditions

Expansion into new geographic markets.

Enhancement of service capabilities in advisory and consulting.

Relevant Timelines

August 2023: Completion of the Market Street Partners merger.

Technological Platform and Innovation

Proprietary Technologies

The firm utilizes advanced data analytics and cybersecurity tools to enhance service delivery and risk management.

Significant Scientific Methods

Data-driven audit methodologies.

Advanced financial modeling for wealth management.

AI-Driven Capabilities

Implementation of AI in data analysis for audit and assurance services.

Leadership Team

Key Executives

Sean C. Taylor: Chief Executive Officer. Since becoming CEO in 2019, Sean has led the firm through significant growth, including expanding the team from just over 100 to more than 500 members and completing multiple acquisitions.

Karthik Krishnamurthy: Chief Financial Officer. Joined in 2024, Karthik brings over two decades of global experience in private equity, financial operations, and business transformation.

Julie H. Barnes: Chief Human Resources Officer. With 25 years of global HR experience, Julie leads the firm's talent and recruiting strategy, fostering a diverse and collaborative culture.

Leadership Changes

Karthik Krishnamurthy: Appointed as CFO in 2024.

Julie H. Barnes: Appointed as CHRO in 2021.

Competitor Profile

Market Insights and Dynamics

The accounting and advisory services market is characterized by consolidation, technological innovation, and a focus on personalized client service. Firms are expanding their service offerings and geographic reach to remain competitive.

Competitor Analysis

Frazier & Deeter: A significant competitor based in Atlanta, Georgia, offering similar services and serving a diverse client base.

Mauldin & Jenkins: Another competitor providing accounting and advisory services with a focus on various industries.

Strategic Collaborations and Partnerships

Broad Sky Partners: The strategic investment from Broad Sky Partners has enabled Smith + Howard to pursue growth initiatives and acquisitions.

Operational Insights

Smith + Howard differentiates itself through a strong commitment to client service, a culture of integrity and innovation, and a focus on community involvement. The firm's strategic acquisitions and investments in technology position it well in the competitive landscape.

Strategic Opportunities and Future Directions

Strategic Roadmap

Expansion: Continue to expand geographically through strategic acquisitions and partnerships.

Service Enhancement: Develop and integrate new service offerings to meet evolving client needs.

Technology Integration: Invest in advanced technologies to improve service efficiency and effectiveness.

Future Business Directions

Strengthen presence in key markets through targeted acquisitions.

Enhance advisory and consulting services to attract a broader client base.

Foster a culture of continuous improvement and innovation.

Opportunities for Expansion

Explore international markets to offer services to global clients.

Develop specialized services in emerging industries.

Positioning for Future Objectives

Smith + Howard's commitment to excellence, client service, and strategic growth initiatives position it well to achieve its future objectives and maintain a competitive edge in the industry.