Arlington, Va.-based Ascend, a private equity-backed platform for regional accounting and advisory firms, has announced that Kirkland, Wash.-based Sweeney Conrad has joined its platform, expanding Ascend’s presence in the Pacific Northwest.
Founded in 1980, Sweeney Conrad is a full-service accounting and advisory firm that has been consistently recognized for firm culture and workplace excellence by Inside Public Accounting and other industry publications. The firm adds 14 partners and 117 staff to Ascend.
“Our mission at Ascend is to empower independent firms to create permanent advantages in client service and talent strategy,” said Nishaad Ruparel, president of Ascend. “Sweeney Conrad is joining from a position of strength, with a long history of organic growth, a forward-looking partner group and a standout reputation in a flourishing local economy. This partnership allows the firm to build on that foundation while embracing innovation.”
Sam North, CEO of Sweeney Conrad, said the firm was drawn to Ascend’s collaborative model and focus on preserving independence.
“We’ve found a partnership of independent firms that will help us better serve the families, businesses and communities we’ve always supported,” North said. “Ascend provides the technology, talent and resources to help us remain future ready while preserving our culture, clients and people. We’re still Sweeney Conrad, and that will not change.”
As part of the transaction, Sweeney Conrad will adopt an alternative practice structure separating attest and non-attest services. Tax and business advisory services will be provided by Sweeney Conrad Advisors LLC, a new entity affiliated with Ascend, while attest services will continue to be provided by an independently owned and licensed CPA firm.
