Plante Moran elects Jason Drake as managing partner
Plante Moran, a Southfield, MI-headquartered accounting and consulting firm, has elected Jason Drake as managing partner, effective July 1, 2024.
Drake, who will become the firm’s eighth managing partner in its 100-year history, succeeds Jim Proppe, who has led Plante Moran for the last seven years.
During Proppe’s tenure, the firm expanded its geographic reach and service offerings, as well as drove forward its digital capabilities. Proppe oversaw the 2018 acquisition of EKS&H, which expanded the firm’s presence into Colorado and enabled it to breach the $1-billion revenue threshold for the first time. Plante Moran is the 15th-largest CPA firm in the United States, according to Inside Public Accounting.
Founded in 1924, Plante Moran has 3,800+ professionals across offices in Michigan, Illinois, Ohio, and Colorado, as well international locations in Mexico, India, China, and Japan. The firm provides a full suite of audit, tax, consulting, and wealth management services to clients in manufacturing and distribution, financial services, service, healthcare, private equity, public sector, real estate, construction, and energy.
“There are a variety of reasons why the partnership selected Jason as managing partner—from his vision for the future, experience in multiple service lines and international experience, to his deep relationships and connections with firms and colleagues around the world,” said Proppe. “Jason is an inspiring colleague, an outstanding mentor and we know he'll continue to do great things for the firm.”
Drake has been at Plante Moran since joining the firm as an intern in 1999, holding various leadership roles in assurance, consulting, and international services. He has deep expertise helping clients expand internationally and helping foreign companies enter the US market.
Since 2021, Drake has served as group managing partner of the firm’s Chicagoland, Ohio, and international offices. Before that, he led the firm’s international locations and practice. In 2015, Crain’s Detroit Business recognized Drake as a “40 Under 40” recipient for helping Plante Moran increase international business revenue by 400%.
Drake has a bachelor’s degree in accounting from Michigan State University and a CPA certification.
“I’m honored that the firm has entrusted me with this important role. As Plante Moran celebrates 100 years in business, it’s clear to me that we’ve achieved this milestone by staying true to our values, principles and ‘We Care’ culture,” Drake said. “Going forward, that won’t change. My plan for the future is to continue to be a good steward of the firm –– because that’s how we’ll thrive for another 100+ years.”
