Knoxville, Tenn.-based IPA 100 firm PYA (FY24 net revenue of $74.31 million) has announced upcoming leadership transitions as Martin (Marty) Brown steps away from firm ownership at the end of 2026 and David McMillan is named as his successor.
McMillan became president effective Jan. 1, 2026, and will assume the additional role of CEO on Jan. 1, 2027. Brown will remain CEO throughout 2026 before transitioning to a non-ownership role as chief growth officer, accounting and advisory services, in 2027.
The leadership progression follows a multiyear planning process shaped by PYA’s multigenerational private ownership model and reflects alignment among the firm’s owners and executive leadership.
“Marty’s leadership has been transformative for PYA,” said McMillan. “His entrepreneurial spirit has elevated PYA to national prominence while his focus on relationship-building and the firm’s culture of community service has kept us connected to our Tennessee heritage. Marty will continue to be an important bridge between our firm, our clients, and the broader business communities we serve.”
PYA’s ownership group has unanimously voted to remain privately held and independent, reaffirming the firm’s client-first ownership philosophy amid increasing private equity investment in the profession.
During Brown’s tenure, PYA expanded its geographic footprint and invested in key markets, including multiple expansions in Nashville, a major expansion in Tampa, and continued growth in Kansas City. The firm now serves clients in all 50 states across a wide range of industries.
The owners have asked Brown, who will step away from firm ownership and the CEO role on January 1, 2027, to continue supporting PYA as chief growth officer, accounting and advisory services, and he has agreed. In that role, Brown will focus on growth across the firm’s audit, tax and client accounting services practices.
McMillan has served as PYA’s CFO, a member of the executive committee and leader of the firm’s national consulting practice since 2020.
“David’s integrity and authenticity exemplify the very best of PYA’s entrepreneurial culture and core values,” Brown said. “As CFO, David brought much-needed vision and demonstrated outstanding financial acumen. He guided the firm through complex challenges — including the pandemic — and managed some of our largest client relationships with precision and care. David brings a deep understanding of our business, our clients, and our people, making him uniquely equipped to lead PYA into its next chapter of growth.”
As McMillan assumes the presidency, additional leadership transitions are taking place. Lori Foley, MP of revenue and compliance advisory and office MP in Atlanta, succeeded McMillan as MP, consulting, effective January 1, 2026. Angie Caldwell, principal and office MP in Tampa, also assumed the role of CFO.
“This transition underscores PYA’s strengths — not just in strategy and financial performance, but in culture, mentorship, and shared purpose,” said Foley. “We are invested in our people and the deep knowledge and care they bring to our longstanding relationships with clients and the communities where we live and work.”
