Baker Tilly to acquire Southeast accountancy Hancock Askew

Baker Tilly US has agreed to acquire Hancock Askew & Co. LLP, a Savannah, GA-based accounting and consulting firm.
Founded in 1910, Hancock Askew has more than 250 professionals across offices in Georgia and Florida – including Savannah, Atlanta, Augusta, Tampa, Jacksonville, and Orlando.
The firm provides services in tax, audit, accounting, risk assurance and advisory, SOC examinations, ISO Certifications, transaction advisory, and business valuations, as well as other business consulting services.
Hancock Askew works with clients ranging from individuals and small businesses to large corporations and Fortune 500s.
The acquisition will strongly expand Baker Tilly’s presence in Georgia and Florida, where it currently has offices in Atlanta and Tampa.
“The Southeast is a vital region for businesses of all sizes,” said Fred Massanova, Baker Tilly’s chief growth officer and managing principal for the Eastern US. “Hancock Askew’s longstanding commitment to client service and deep regional expertise make them an outstanding fit for Baker Tilly as we continue expanding our capabilities in this market.”
Michael McCarthy, managing partner of Hancock Askew, will join Baker Tilly as managing principal for Georgia and Florida.
“Joining Baker Tilly provides new opportunities for our clients and team members while preserving the commitment to quality and service that has defined Hancock Askew for decades,” McCarthy said.
Koltin Consulting, an M&A consulting specialist focusing on financial and professional services, advised on the transaction.
Private equity firms Hellman & Friedman and Valeas Capital Partners bought a majority stake in Baker Tilly US last year. Part of the $1 billion investment is being used to fund acquisitions as the firm aims to challenge midmarket rivals RSM, Grant Thornton, and BDO.