Sean C. Taylor, CEO of Smith + Howard has been named the recipient of a 2024 Lifetime Achievement Award byVistage, the world’s largest CEO coaching and peer advisory organization for small and midsize businesses. The Lifetime Achievement Award honors long-standing members who see no finish line in their pursuit of world class. With a track record of bold decisions benefiting company, community and beyond, these leaders are a beacon to their peers.   

Taylor is CEO of Smith + Howard Advisory, LLC, a leading tax, accounting and advisory firm. He started his career with Smith + Howard as an intern over 30 years ago, assuming the role of Managing Partner in 2019 and CEO in 2022. Since assuming his current role, he has led the business through a period of significant national growth, including private-equity investment, four acquisitions over the past year, industry-leading recruiting and retention of employees and recognition as one of the Top 100 firms in the nation.  

In addition to his professional accomplishments, Taylor devotes considerable time to community and charitable activities. He is a valued board member, trustee and chair of nonprofit organizations, a valued advisor to middle market business leaders, and the co-founder of FoodStock, an annual food packaging event that gathers over 1,000 volunteers who package 300,000+ meals to be delivered around the world.    

Of the Vistage recognition, Taylor said, “Vistage has been integral to my professional development and growth, and ultimately to my success. The privilege of having a group of high-integrity peers with whom I can seek and receive feedback and guidance, and in turn can provide the same to them, is invaluable. The resources and coaching afforded by Vistage has influenced my growth beyond the bounds of Smith + Howard, enhancing my approach to family and community and my ability to seamlessly integrate all three areas. I would be remiss if I didn’t acknowledge the very significant impact that my Vistage Chairs have had on my development, most recently Brian Slack who has coached and mentored me as I navigated meaningful change in our firm.” 

Brian Slack, Executive Chair of Vistage said of Taylor, “Sean has been deeply committed to Vistage for over 20 years. His involvement has included a willingness to share his experiences and insights with others. Additionally, his openness to receiving advice and feedback from his Vistage peers to grow as a businessperson and leader demonstrates the quality of the person as well as his dedication to Smith + Howard.  Vistage and other organizations in which Sean is involved are all better because of his contributions.” 

The Lifetime Achieve Award from Vistage marks a well-earned and significant achievement for Taylor and, by connection to the firm, solidifying the link between the firm’s focus on Clients, People, Excellence and Integrity.