Hagerstown, Md.-based IPA 200 firm SEK CPAs & Advisors (FY23 net revenue of $30.5 million) announced the election of Kara Darlington as the firm’s managing member, effective Jan. 1.
Kara Darlington
Darlington is the fifth managing member in the firm’s 61-year history and the first woman to hold this leadership role. She succeeds John Schnitzer, who has served as managing member since 2010 and will remain with the firm part time, serving clients until his full retirement.
“Having spent my career with SEK, I deeply value the culture we’ve built and the relationships we’ve cultivated with our team, clients and communities,” said Darlington. I am excited to guide our firm’s continued growth and innovation while honoring the legacy of strong leadership established by John and those who came before him.”
As managing member, Darlington will continue focusing on enhancing the success of the firm’s team and clients while guiding the firm’s strategic direction and future growth. Her vision emphasizes embracing change within the accounting industry while fostering a collaborative and supportive workplace culture.
Under Schnitzer’s leadership, SEK expanded its service offerings and strengthened its reputation as one of the region’s top accounting firms. “Kara is a visionary leader whose experience, integrity and forward-thinking approach will serve SEK well,” said Schnitzer. “Her appointment marks an exciting new chapter for the firm, and I am confident she will continue to build on our success.”
