Smith & Howard, a leading Atlanta accounting and advisory firm, announces a leadership transition plan that includes the appointment of Sean C. Taylor as Managing Partner, effective January 1, 2019. Taylor assumes the role from long-time Managing Partner John W. Lucht, who will complete his role as Managing Partner and transition to a consultative role in 2019.
 
“We are extremely excited that Sean will become Managing Partner in January. He embodies the servant leadership skills and commitment to others’ success that have become the defining principles of our firm. His demonstrated leadership as current partner-in-charge of the Assurances Services group exemplifies the qualities that will propel our firm to the next level over the coming years,” Lucht said.
 
As Managing Partner, Taylor will oversee day-to-day operations, responsible for guiding the firm’s overall strategy, growth, innovation and culture across its audit, tax, accounting and advisory services.
 
"We owe John our deepest gratitude for the contributions he has made not just as Managing Partner, but throughout his 30-year career at Smith & Howard. His leadership has enabled us to strengthen our standing as an industry leader. Our firm is well-positioned to capitalize on the opportunities ahead,” Taylor said. “I am excited to lead Smith & Howard into the next phase of the firm’s life cycle by focusing on innovation, expanding client service solutions, attracting and welcoming new talent and stretching our footprint across the region.”
 
Smith & Howard’s partners and employees remain committed to delivering long-term value to the firm’s clients through excellence and results. Firm leaders will work closely with Lucht and Taylor to ensure the leadership transition is seamless for all involved.
 
“Our future is bright, and we look forward to building on our current success to deliver value to our clients and provide a great firm for our team members to build their careers,” added Taylor.