#United States #Atlanta #Smith + Howard #Hagler Brocato #Byrne Zizzi

Smith + Howard's Recent Strategic Acquisitions in the Southeast

In a strategic move to expand its regional footprint, Smith + Howard has recently acquired two accounting firms, Hagler & Brocato and Byrne|Zizzi, further solidifying its presence in the Southeastern United States. The transactions, which were finalized on November 2, 2026, will enhance the firm’s capacity to serve clients and underscore its commitment to growth in the accounting and advisory service sectors.

Acquisition Details

Hagler & Brocato, based in Hoover, Alabama, is a well-established public accounting firm that specializes in accounting, tax planning, payroll, and business consulting services. This firm has gained recognition for its specialized expertise in serving clients in various sectors such as construction, real estate, and nonprofit organizations. On the other hand, Byrne|Zizzi operates out of Tupelo, Mississippi, offering a range of services that includes tax planning, business consulting, and client accounting. With additional offices in Aberdeen, Houston, and Oxford, Byrne|Zizzi brings a strong reputation for personalized advice and robust client relationships, making it a valuable addition to Smith + Howard.

The financial terms of these acquisitions were not disclosed, but they mark significant milestones for Smith + Howard, representing the fourth and fifth strategic additions to its portfolio in 2026 alone. Commenting on these acquisitions, Sean Taylor, CEO of Smith + Howard, emphasized the role of these partnerships in accelerating the firm’s growth strategy and enhancing the value it can offer to its clients.

Strengthening Presence in Alabama

The acquisition of Hagler & Brocato adds to Smith + Howard's existing presence in Alabama, following its acquisition of Horton, Lee & Burnett in September 2025. This integration allows Smith + Howard to provide even more comprehensive service offerings to its clients in the region. Charles C. “Clay” Hagler, the founder of Hagler & Brocato, expressed enthusiasm regarding the partnership, highlighting how it will grant their clientele access to a broader array of specialized resources and expertise while maintaining the personalized service they have built their reputation on over the years.

Entry into Mississippi Market

The addition of Byrne|Zizzi not only enhances Smith + Howard's service capabilities but also marks its entry into the Mississippi market, now establishing a footprint across four cities in this state. Emily Zizzi, the CEO of Byrne|Zizzi, noted that the decision to join Smith + Howard was deeply personal, aiming to continue providing the quality service their clients expect while tapping into the greater resources offered by a national firm. This strategic acquisition paves the way for exciting opportunities for both clients and professionals within the firm as they look to expand their services and reach.

Continued Growth in 2026

Smith + Howard’s ongoing growth trajectory has accelerated since forming a partnership with private equity in November 2022. The firm has completed 11 acquisitions to date, positioning itself to serve a broader range of clients on a national scale. In June 2026, the firm announced a significant investment from TPG Growth, reinforcing its commitment to expanding its operational capabilities, investing in advanced technology, and enhancing service delivery.

Recently, Smith + Howard was honored as a 2026 'Best of the Best' firm by INSIDE Public Accounting (IPA), acknowledging its excellence in the industry for the 17th consecutive year. This recognition not only affirms Smith + Howard's commitment to the highest standards of service but also highlights its continued evolution in responding to the needs of its diverse clientele.

Conclusion

With the successful integrations of Hagler & Brocato and Byrne|Zizzi, Smith + Howard is not only bolstering its market position across the Southeastern United States but also enhancing its capabilities to offer a diverse suite of services to clients, furthering its goal of becoming a leading national accounting and advisory firm. As the firm looks to the future, the focus remains on leveraging these acquisitions to deliver exceptional value and build long-term relationships with clients.

For more information about Smith + Howard and its services, visit Smith + Howard's website.