Strengthens Expertise in Construction Accounting and Expands into the Carolinas
ATLANTA, Feb. 11, 2025 -- Smith + Howard, a leading national tax, accounting, and advisory firm, today announced its acquisition of Smith Kesler & Co. (SKC), a well-respected accounting practice with four offices across North Carolina and South Carolina. Established in 1974, SKC has built a strong reputation for its specialized audit and tax services, particularly within the construction industry.
Under the leadership of Managing Stockholder Steve Hinds, SKC has grown into a team of more than 30 construction-focused professionals known for their deep industry expertise and commitment to client service.
This marks Smith + Howard's fifth acquisition in the past 16 months as the firm continues executing its strategic growth plan. The addition of SKC strengthens the firm's core accounting services and extends its construction industry client base into the Carolinas. Steve Hinds will transition into the role of Partner, overseeing regional operations, while all SKC employees will officially join Smith + Howard.
"We are thrilled to welcome the talented professionals at Smith Kesler & Co. to Smith + Howard," said Sean Taylor, CEO of Smith + Howard. "Their outstanding reputation, high-caliber client portfolio, and deep industry expertise provide a strategic advantage in our ability to serve clients. Expanding into the Carolinas allows us to introduce Smith + Howard's world-class advisory services in a region that is central to our long-term growth strategy."
Industry leader Allan Koltin, who advised on this transaction, commented on the acquisition: "Smith Kesler is widely recognized as one of the premier construction accounting firms in the Carolinas. Many top accounting firms sought to partner with Smith Kesler for its talent and client service, but its choice of Smith + Howard underscores the firm's strong culture, entrepreneurial spirit, and collaborative approach. In just two years since receiving private equity investment, Smith + Howard has established itself as a client-focused national firm, attracting top talent and executing on its growth strategy."
Reflecting on the decision to join Smith + Howard, Steve Hinds shared: "As we looked to the future, we saw an opportunity to expand our reach and support construction businesses beyond the Carolinas. To achieve this, we sought a partnership with a larger firm that could offer enhanced resources for our clients and greater opportunities for our team. Equally important was finding a partner whose values and culture aligned with ours. From our first conversations, it was clear that Smith + Howard was the perfect fit, exceeding our expectations in every way."
The transaction is effective January 31, 2025, with terms remaining undisclosed. Moving forward, SKC will operate under the Smith + Howard brand. Smith + Howard's continued expansion has been fueled in part by its partnership with Broad Sky Partners, which became the firm's first external investor in November 2022, supporting its long-term growth strategy.
About Smith + Howard
Smith + Howard is a nationally recognized accounting and advisory firm serving businesses across multiple industries, including construction, distribution, hospitality, manufacturing, nonprofit, real estate, technology, and transportation/logistics. The firm provides a comprehensive suite of services, including audit, tax, international tax consulting, transfer pricing, cyber risk compliance, R&D tax credits, SOC reporting, and more. Additionally, under its Family of Companies umbrella, Smith + Howard offers wealth management, sales and use tax, property tax, management consulting, human capital consulting, and executive search services—helping businesses at every stage of growth.
About SKC
Smith Kesler & Co is a tax and accounting firm serving construction businesses throughout North Carolina and South Carolina. The firm provides tax, accounting, audit, consulting, payroll, bookkeeping and litigation support services.
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