Atlanta-based IPA 100 firm Smith + Howard (FY23 net revenue of $53.2 million) announced its acquisition of Spartanburg, S.C.-based firm Smith Kesler & Co. (SKC). Established in 1974, SKC has built a strong reputation for its specialized audit and tax services, particularly within the construction industry.
The transaction was effective Jan. 31. Moving forward, SKC will operate under the Smith + Howard brand. Steve Hinds, managing stockholder of SKC, will transition into the role of partner, overseeing regional operations, while all SKC employees will officially join Smith + Howard.
“We are thrilled to welcome the talented professionals at Smith Kesler & Co. to Smith + Howard,” said Sean Taylor, CEO of Smith + Howard. “Their outstanding reputation, high-caliber client portfolio and deep industry expertise provide a strategic advantage in our ability to serve clients. Expanding into the Carolinas allows us to introduce Smith + Howard’s world-class advisory services in a region that is central to our long-term growth strategy.”
Industry leader Allan Koltin, who advised on this transaction, commented on the acquisition, “Smith Kesler is widely recognized as one of the premier construction accounting firms in the Carolinas. Many top accounting firms sought to partner with Smith Kesler for its talent and client service, but its choice of Smith + Howard underscores the firm’s strong culture, entrepreneurial spirit and collaborative approach. In just two years since receiving private equity investment, Smith + Howard has established itself as a client-focused national firm, attracting top talent and executing on its growth strategy.”
Reflecting on the decision to join Smith + Howard, Hinds shared: “As we looked to the future, we saw an opportunity to expand our reach and support construction businesses beyond the Carolinas. To achieve this, we sought a partnership with a larger firm that could offer enhanced resources for our clients and greater opportunities for our team. Equally important was finding a partner whose values and culture aligned with ours. From our first conversations, it was clear that Smith + Howard was the perfect fit, exceeding our expectations in every way.”
