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Smithbucklin and McKinley Advisors Join Forces

In a landmark development in the association industry, leading professional services firm Smithbucklin has successfully acquired McKinley Advisors. This strategic merger, announced on March 4, 2026, sets the stage for a transformative partnership aimed at driving innovation and growth for associations worldwide.

The Power of Partnership

Both Smithbucklin and McKinley Advisors are highly regarded entities with reputations built on trust and exceptional service delivery. Smithbucklin, with over 75 years of experience, has cultivated a comprehensive suite of services tailored specifically for associations. By acquiring McKinley Advisors, which is renowned for its research and strategic consulting capabilities, Smithbucklin significantly enhances its ability to support associations in navigating a rapidly changing landscape.

Matt Sanderson, President and CEO of Smithbucklin, expressed enthusiasm about the merger, noting, "Contemporary associations increasingly need high-capacity partners to help them effectively tackle new challenges. McKinley has a stellar reputation and has proven itself as a trusted advisor, making this acquisition a natural extension of our offerings."

Enhancing Talent and Expertise

With a combined workforce of nearly 650 employees, the new entity seamlessly integrates McKinley's portfolio of strategic advisory services with Smithbucklin's extensive experience in association management and event execution. McKinley Advisors will continue to operate under its established brand, boasting its current leadership and methodologies, but will also have the opportunity to leverage the broader capabilities of the Smithbucklin network.

Jay Younger, President of McKinley Advisors, shared his perspective on the partnership, stating, "From our initial discussions, we identified a strong alignment in our mission, vision, and core values. Both organizations are deeply committed to helping associations advance their meaningful work for the greater good. This foundational agreement paves the way for impactful new solutions that would be unattainable alone."

Addressing Association Needs

As associations face an array of challenges in the current environment—from adapting to technological changes to meeting evolving member expectations—this merger comes at a crucial time. The unification of Smithbucklin's extensive expertise with McKinley's established research capabilities will equip associations with the insights necessary to flourish and make informed decisions.

The marriage of Smithbucklin's event management with McKinley's strategic advisory services means that clients now have access to a robust arsenal of resources designed to elevate their operations. This alignment not only broadens service offerings but also enhances the potential for collaboration and innovation.

Looking Ahead

As both firms embark on this new chapter together, the emphasis on delivering comprehensive solutions tailored for associations is paramount. Smithbucklin aims to leverage its 75-year heritage of excellence, while McKinley Advisors will continue championing its consultancy practices to accelerate positive organizational change.

In conclusion, the merger of Smithbucklin and McKinley Advisors stands as a powerful testament to the strength of collaboration in the association industry. Together, they are poised to offer unparalleled service, advanced insights, and innovative solutions that will undoubtedly propel associations toward achieving their missions effectively.

Conclusion

For individuals and organizations interested in the future of association management and consultancy, keeping a close eye on this newly formed powerhouse will be essential. With the merger expected to yield vast benefits for clients, the impact of this strategic move will likely reshape the association landscape in the years to come.