Accounting and advisory firm Smith + Howard has announced its acquisition of Horton, Lee, Burnett, Peacock, Cleveland & Grainger—known as Horton, Lee & Burnett. Based in Birmingham, Alabama, the firm has been a respected name in accounting and consulting since its founding in 1967. This acquisition marks Smith + Howard’s official entry into Alabama and strengthens its presence across the Southeastern United States.
The move is part of Smith + Howard’s broader strategy to combine organic growth with targeted acquisitions that enhance its expertise and geographic reach. Horton, Lee & Burnett brings a seasoned team with deep client relationships and a strong reputation for delivering high-quality services in accounting, auditing, tax, and advisory. Their client base spans various industries, including real estate, healthcare, manufacturing, nonprofits, and automotive.
Following the acquisition, the Horton, Lee & Burnett team will transition to the Smith + Howard brand, integrating their decades of experience into the firm’s expanding portfolio. Leadership from both firms expressed enthusiasm about the partnership, highlighting shared values and a commitment to delivering exceptional service. The acquisition also opens up new opportunities for clients to access a broader range of services and specialized expertise.
Smith + Howard has been on a growth trajectory, recently launching two new tax practices focused on site selection and incentives, as well as state and local income tax consulting. These additions reflect the firm’s continued investment in expanding its capabilities across audit, tax, advisory, and niche consulting areas.
With a strong reputation for operational excellence and client-first service, Smith + Howard serves a wide range of industries, including construction, hospitality, technology, transportation, and logistics. Through its Family of Companies, the firm also offers services in wealth management, property tax, human capital consulting, and executive search.
KEY QUOTES:
“This acquisition aligns with our strategy to combine organic growth with targeted expansions that add depth to our expertise and geographic reach. Horton, Lee & Burnett’s exceptional team, client relationships, and values well-align with ours, and together we’ll be able to provide even greater value to the businesses and individuals we serve.”
Sean Taylor, CEO of Smith + Howard
“Joining forces with Smith + Howard is an exciting step for our clients and our team. We share a common vision for delivering extraordinary service and practical solutions, and this move opens the door to new opportunities to serve our clients with a broader suite of services while continuing to fuel growth and innovation.”
Brian W. Burnett, Partner, Horton, Lee & Burnett
“With a 60-year operating legacy, the Horton, Lee & Burnett team built an incredible CPA and accounting services practice with a culture rooted in resilience and long-term relationships.”
Neal England, Managing Director at Founders Advisors and advisor to Horton, Lee & Burnett
“It was a pleasure working with both organizations and we look forward to watching the continued success of Smith + Howard.”
Chris Jenkins, Vice President at Founders Advisors
