Nationally acclaimed consulting and accounting firm Cherry Bekaert (“the Firm”) is pleased to announce the acquisition of Powell, Ebert & Smolik, PC (“PES”), one of the leading certified public accounting firms in Austin, Texas. This strategic combination expands Cherry Bekaert’s service footprint into the Austin market.
In joining forces with PES, Cherry Bekaert enters the Austin market as one of the 15 largest CPA and consulting firms servicing Austin and Central Texas. Three Partners and more than 25 associates will establish the Firm’s market presence in the Austin area. Cherry Bekaert sought a strategic acquisition in Austin due to the area’s robust growth economy and innovative business climate. These attributes attract and cater to the Firm’s core industry sectors of technology, life sciences, advanced manufacturing, distribution and real estate.
“Austin was a key strategic target market for our Firm in terms of geographic expansion,” commented Howard J. Kies, CPA, Firm Managing Partner of Cherry Bekaert. “PES’s longstanding market reputation for quality work and client service make them a great synergistic fit for Cherry Bekaert. With their connections in the Austin community, we look forward to building a market presence that serves the innovative needs of technology, health and life sciences, and industrial clients.”
PES was founded in 1992 when three Big Four accounting firm partners, Danny Powell, Vernon Ebert and Jim Smolik, joined together their practices. Robert Schriber became a shareholder in 1996 and the Firm grew to one of the largest firms in the Austin area.
“Our clients will benefit from Cherry Bekaert’s industry expertise and expansive suite of specialty services,” said Danny Powell, former shareholder with PES and new Partner at Cherry Bekaert. “The growth catalysts for the Austin economy align well with the focused verticals of Cherry Bekaert. We look forward to bringing more value to the local business community.”
Cherry Bekaert welcomes Danny Powell, Bob Schriber and Jim Smolik as Partners. The professional staff of PES will continue to operate in downtown Austin.
