Smith + Howard Announces Key Leadership Transition: Sean Spitzer Appointed President and Chief Operating Officer

ATLANTA (November 5, 2025) — Smith + Howard, a nationally recognized accounting and advisory firm, today announced a key leadership transition that reflects its continued focus on growth, innovation, and talent development. After nearly a decade of dedicated service, Dan Smith will retire as Chief Operating Officer at the end of this year. His leadership has strengthened the firm’s operational foundation and fostered the professional growth of its team. Effective immediately, Sean Spitzer assumes the role of President and Chief Operating Officer of Smith + Howard.

“This leadership transition reflects our commitment to fostering a culture of excellence and ensuring the firm’s continued success,” said Sean Taylor, CEO of Smith + Howard. “We are excited to welcome Sean into his new role and look forward to his contribution in driving the firm’s vision forward.”

With more than 20 years at Smith + Howard, Spitzer has led growth and operational initiatives within the firm’s attest business and served as engagement partner on many of its largest audits. He is a Certified Public Accountant and holds an MBA in accounting from the University of Tennessee, as well as executive education credentials from Harvard Business School. Spitzer began his career at a Big Four accounting firm before joining Smith + Howard in 2002.

“I’m honored to step into this expanded role and continue building on the strong foundation Dan helped establish,” said Spitzer. “I’m passionate about helping our clients grow and succeed, and I look forward to working with our incredible team as we move into this next chapter together.”

As part of the firm’s broader leadership evolution, David Lee has been appointed to lead the Assurance Practice. He has been with Smith + Howard since 2005 and has played a key role in its success and client relationships. Lee oversees audits for many of the firm’s construction, employee benefit plan, and independent school engagements, as well as those across various other industries.

About Smith + Howard:
Smith + Howard is a nationally recognized accounting and advisory firm serving clients across industries including construction, distribution, hospitality, manufacturing, nonprofit, real estate, technology, and transportation and logistics. Headquartered in Atlanta, the firm has seven offices, nearly 50 partners, and more than 600 employees. In November 2022, Smith + Howard became one of the first accounting firms to secure private equity funding from Broad Sky Partners. The firm provides a full suite of services, including audit, tax, international tax, transfer pricing, cyber risk compliance, R&D tax credits, SOC reporting, and more. Through its Family of Companies—which includes wealth management, sales and use tax, property tax, management consulting, human capital consulting, and executive search—Smith + Howard supports businesses at every stage of growth. Learn more at www.smith-howard.com.

Media Contact:
Lisa Hagendorf
Centerpiece PR for Smith + Howard
[email protected]