Smith + Howard Enhances Offerings with Acquisition of Smith Kesler & Co.

Expanding Horizons: Smith + Howard's Strategic Acquisition of Smith Kesler & Co.

Smith + Howard, a prominent national tax, accounting, and advisory firm, has recently made a significant move to broaden its reach and expertise through the acquisition of Smith Kesler & Co. (SKC), a well-established accounting practice with four offices in North Carolina and South Carolina. Founded in 1974, SKC has garnered acclaim for its specialized services in audit and taxation, particularly tailored for the construction sector.

The Growth Journey

This acquisition is a part of Smith + Howard's ongoing strategy to enhance its service offerings and client base, marking their fifth acquisition in just sixteen months. Under the stewardship of Managing Stockholder Steve Hinds, SKC has assembled a team of over 30 professionals skilled in construction-focused accounting, exemplifying a strong commitment to client service and industry knowledge.

Sean Taylor, the CEO of Smith + Howard, expressed excitement about the integration of SKC's talented professionals into the Smith + Howard family, stating, "Their outstanding reputation and high-caliber client portfolio provide a strategic advantage in serving clients effectively. Expanding into the Carolinas is instrumental to our growth strategy."

All SKC team members will transition into their roles within Smith + Howard, with Steve Hinds stepping into a partner position overseeing regional operations. This transition promises to merge SKC's local expertise with Smith + Howard's broad service capabilities, creating a powerful entity in the market.

Strategic Importance

Industry expert Allan Koltin, who provided advisory support during this acquisition, highlighted SKC's reputation as one of the leading construction accounting firms in the Carolinas. He mentioned that top firms have been eager to partner with SKC due to its exceptional talent and client service, but the decision to align with Smith + Howard reflects a cultural and entrepreneurial synergy that stands out in the industry. "This partnership underscores their collaborative spirit and commitment to client success," Koltin noted.

The strategic acquisition comes on the heels of Smith + Howard's engagement with Broad Sky Partners, a private equity investment that supports its long-term growth vision since late 2022. This backing has empowered Smith + Howard to position itself as a client-focused national firm capable of attracting top-tier talent while executing an effective growth strategy.

Future Endeavors

Reflecting on the choice to join forces with Smith + Howard, Hinds acknowledged the potential for expanding their services beyond the Carolinas and the advantages of aligning with a larger firm. He emphasized the importance of finding a partner whose values corresponded with SKC's own. "From our initial discussions, it was evident that Smith + Howard was the right fit, exceeding our expectations in all respects," Hinds stated.

With this acquisition effective as of January 31, 2025, SKC will now operate under the Smith + Howard name. The merger is expected to not only fortify Smith + Howard's accounting services but also extend their reach and proficiency in serving clients across the rapidly growing construction industry in the Carolinas.

About the Firms

Smith + Howard is nationally recognized for its comprehensive suite of services, which span various sectors including construction, hospitality, technology, and more. They offer audit, tax, and advisory services designed to assist businesses through all phases of development.

On the other hand, Smith Kesler & Co. specializes in providing tailored accounting solutions to construction businesses, demonstrating a commitment to delivering excellence in services like audit, consulting, and payroll. This partnership is poised to enhance the capabilities of both firms, marking a significant chapter in their continued growth journey.

In conclusion, the acquisition of Smith Kesler & Co. by Smith + Howard represents a strategic move that reflects both firms' commitment to excellence and service innovation in the accounting industry. As the firms integrate their resources and expertise, clients can expect enhanced support and services that meet the evolving needs of the construction sector.