Ten New Partners Announced at Cherry Bekaert
In a significant move reflecting its commitment to growth and innovation, Cherry Bekaert has announced the promotion of ten dedicated professionals to the status of Partner, effective January 1, 2026. This milestone not only highlights the individual achievements of these professionals but also underscores the firm's ongoing development in the competitive landscape of accounting and advisory services.
Meet the New Partners
The newly promoted partners are:
- - Scott Anderson: Based in Raleigh, Scott specializes in financial reporting and GASB implementation for government and public sector clients, leveraging his past experience as a GASB Practice Fellow.
- - Paul Feagan: Operating out of Virginia Beach, Paul delivers audit services within the real estate construction sector, recognized for his strong technical skills and unwavering commitment to client service.
- - Daniel Gougherty: Located in Charlotte, Daniel focuses on financial and compliance audits for municipal governments and public utilities, bringing over 15 years of experience to the role.
- - Laura Harden: Also in Virginia Beach, Laura leads audit engagements for state and local governments as well as nonprofit organizations, providing crucial guidance on complex reporting issues.
- - Alexander Higgs: From Atlanta, Alexander offers corporate tax advisory and compliance services, adeptly navigating complex tax regulations across various industries.
- - Taylor Ross: Based in Austin, Taylor's expertise lies in tax advisory for the real estate and construction sectors, assisting clients with strategic planning in response to evolving tax requirements.
- - Sarah Tucker: At the Tysons office, Sarah provides accounting services to a diverse range of clients, focusing on government contractors and nonprofits, and plays a key role in advisory for compliance matters.
- - Jonathan Sawyer: Working out of Atlanta, Jonathan leads audit and consulting engagements for middle-market companies globally, handling diverse financial reporting and business combination needs, especially in tech and professional services.
- - Shannon Walker: Located in Richmond, Shannon excels in tax planning and compliance, addressing both state and federal tax matters for various businesses.
- - Ken Woodring: Based in Reading, Ken specializes in financial modernization and advises clients on preparing for transformative transactions, including financial reporting requirements for public companies.
A Commitment to Excellence
The promotion of these ten professionals reflects their exceptional contributions and leadership within the firm, as emphasized by Cherry Bekaert's Chief Executive Officer, Michelle L. Thompson:
"These individuals have demonstrated exceptional leadership, technical excellence, and a deep commitment to our clients and our Firm's values. Their wide-ranging experience strengthens our ability to deliver innovative, industry-leading solutions."
This strategic advancement not only enhances Cherry Bekaert’s capabilities but also reinforces its commitment to delivering high-quality service and innovative solutions to clients across various industries.
Looking Ahead
As Cherry Bekaert continues to adapt to the ever-changing professional landscape, the introduction of these new partners signifies a strengthening of its leadership team, ensuring the firm remains at the forefront of the accounting and advisory sectors. The firm prides itself on fostering a culture of growth, collaboration, and shared success, positioning itself to meet the evolving needs of its client base while also embracing a forward-thinking approach in the industry.
About Cherry Bekaert
Cherry Bekaert ranks among the largest assurance, tax, and advisory firms in the U.S. The brand encompasses Cherry Bekaert LLP and Cherry Bekaert Advisory LLC, which provide quality services under an alternative practice structure. Active members of Allinial Global, they contribute to building innovative solutions rooted in a thorough understanding of clients' industries.
For more information about their services and team, visit
Cherry Bekaert’s website.