Our Firm was founded in 1996 by members of large firms looking for a new, more personal way to do accounting. With a focus on building a community of the highest-quality accountants – partnering each day with our diverse network of clients – we realize this vision.
The Firm’s first growth milestone was a 2008 move to new office space in Lincolnshire to accommodate our nearly 20 employees. Shortly after, Jeff Mowery was named Managing Partner with the clear focus of Firm growth. In August 2009, we completed our first acquisition of Katch-Tyson, doubling our revenue and adding 18 team members. At the same time, we broadened our focus to prioritize our people. With ambitious growth goals, attracting and retaining top talent became of the utmost importance. Our efforts were rewarded in 2011, when we were first named one of Accounting Today’s Best Accounting Firms to Work For. We have proudly earned this designation for 10 consecutive years.
From 2012 through 2015, our growth was dynamic, averaging a merger each year. Revenue grew from $5.8 million in 2012 to $12.5 million in 2017, when we were named one of Inc.’s 5000 Fastest Growing Private Companies in America, as well as Best of the Best and Fastest Growing Firms by Inside Public Accounting, and Member Firm of the Year by Geneva Group International.
In 2014, we took on a new initiative to become a greater steward of our community. M&S Cares sets aside over 500 service hours during the summer work weeks for team members to come together and give back. With a focus on “Helping Charities Help Children,” we now enjoy ongoing partnerships with Arden Shore, Feed My Starving Children, Keeping Families Covered, Bernie’s Book Bank, The Sports Shed and others. We also are an active participant in the Illinois CPA Society’s Day of Service.
This past year, we broadened our offerings with the acquisition of Xamin, Inc., a provider of managed IT services. This new partnership will allow both organizations to expand services to clients. We will offer support in a time when technology, security and infrastructure are a key competitive advantages.
Made up of 21 partners and over 160 total employees, our Firm ranks among the top 10 in Illinois. We continue to grow our expertise, client base and employee count each year. Our founders and leadership team remain accessible and involved in the growth and support of all staff members. Our Firm is committed to offering exposure to multiple disciplines and projects, while providing the systems and support employees need. We pride ourselves on being nimble, entrepreneurial and looking at all projects and engagements through the lens of our clients.
