From Regional to National: How Private Equity Is Helping Smith + Howard Achieve its Strategic Plan

Partner Russell Shapiro recently sat down with Sean Taylor, Managing Partner and CEO of Smith + Howard, a nationwide tax, accounting and advisory firm, to discuss Smith + Howard’s recent private equity investment. Among other topics, the two discussed the PE decision-making process, choosing a financial partner, and the impact of the PE investment on its clients and professionals.

To listen to the discussion, click here or click on the links below to jump to a specific topic:

• The History of Smith + Howard
• Smith + Howard’s Pre-Private Equity Growth
• Get to Know Sean Taylor, CEO of Smith + Howard
• The Decision-Making Process for a Private Equity Investment
• Sean Taylor’s Advice for Other Middle-Market Accounting Firms
• Choosing a Financial Partner & Aligning Objectives
• Impact of the PE Structure on Recruiting and Retention
• The Role and Impact of Equity Grants
• Impact of PE Investment on Clients
• Potential PE Exit Strategies
• Characterizations of the Accounting Industry and M&A Marketplace
• What Is a “Good Fit” for a Possible Deal?
• Importance of the Firm’s Shared Goals and Principles
• Bonus Question: What Is the Impact of PE on Younger Partners?

Listen to the conversation on Spotify