Smith Howard Executive and Leadership Team

Karthik Krishnamurthy, the Chief Financial Officer at Smith Howard, directs the firm's financial planning, management, and reporting. Overseeing all fiscal operations, Krishnamurthy ensures financial stability, optimizes resource allocation, and drives profitability across the company's diverse service lines. This executive position involves managing budgets, financial analysis, investment strategies, and compliance with financial regulations to support Smith Howard's global client reach. By providing strategic financial insights, Karthik Krishnamurthy enables the firm to effectively manage financial, operational, and compliance challenges for businesses. The Chief Financial Officer's leadership is integral to the firm's integrated structure, supporting its capabilities in areas such as wealth management and consulting, and reinforcing its commitment to delivering comprehensive client support.

J. Sean Spitzer, the President at Smith Howard, provides overarching leadership and strategic direction for the firm's comprehensive professional services. Overseeing the integration of tax, accounting, advisory, and consulting functions, Spitzer ensures the delivery of exceptional client value and drives the firm's expansion into new markets. This executive position involves guiding the company's vision, fostering a culture of innovation, and managing relationships with key stakeholders to support businesses across various growth stages. By championing the firm's integrated structure, J. Sean Spitzer enhances its capabilities in areas like wealth management and international tax, thereby extending its global client reach. The President's leadership is pivotal in navigating complex financial, operational, and compliance challenges for clients worldwide.

Julie Barnes, the Chief Of Staff at Smith Howard, directs strategic initiatives and operational efficiency across the firm. Overseeing the coordination of key departmental functions, Barnes ensures seamless execution of the company's growth strategies and client service delivery. This leadership role involves managing cross-functional projects and facilitating communication between executive leadership and operational teams. By aligning departmental objectives with the firm's overarching mission, Julie Barnes drives the implementation of new service offerings and process improvements. The Chief Of Staff's responsibilities extend to optimizing resource allocation and enhancing internal workflows to support the firm's global client reach. Barnes also plays a critical part in developing and executing strategic plans that address complex financial, operational, and compliance challenges for businesses.

Brielle Ferrante, the Chief Marketing Officer at Smith Howard, architects and executes comprehensive marketing strategies to enhance brand visibility and client acquisition. Overseeing all marketing channels, Ferrante drives initiatives that communicate the firm's broad range of professional services, including audit, tax, advisory, and consulting. This leadership position involves managing market research, digital marketing campaigns, content development, and public relations efforts to support businesses across various growth stages. By focusing on targeted outreach, Brielle Ferrante ensures that Smith Howard's integrated structure and extended capabilities are effectively communicated to potential and existing clients. The Chief Marketing Officer's role is crucial in highlighting the firm's expertise in areas such as international tax, cyber risk, and wealth management, thereby reinforcing its global client reach and market impact.

Russ Kanner, the Chief Revenue Officer at Smith Howard, directs all revenue-generating activities and sales strategies across the firm's diverse service lines. Overseeing the sales teams and client relationship management, Kanner focuses on expanding market share and driving sustainable revenue growth. This executive role involves developing and implementing effective sales processes, identifying new business opportunities, and ensuring alignment with the firm's overall strategic objectives. By fostering strong client partnerships, Russ Kanner supports businesses in navigating financial, operational, and compliance challenges through Smith Howard's comprehensive offerings. The Chief Revenue Officer's efforts are critical in promoting the firm's integrated approach, which includes wealth management, sales and use tax advisory, and consulting services, thereby extending its global client reach and solidifying its market position.

Scott Goodwin, the Chief Information Officer at Smith Howard, leads the firm's technology strategy and digital transformation initiatives. Overseeing the development and implementation of robust IT infrastructure, Goodwin ensures the security, efficiency, and scalability of all technological systems supporting client services and internal operations. This critical role involves managing data security, cloud computing, and the integration of advanced technologies to enhance service delivery and operational compliance. By leveraging cutting-edge technology, Scott Goodwin supports Smith Howard's ability to provide a broad range of professional services, including audit, tax, and consulting, to a global clientele. The Chief Information Officer's focus on innovation and operational excellence is fundamental to maintaining the firm's competitive edge and effectively addressing the evolving needs of businesses worldwide.

Kerry Eales, the Chief Human Resources Officer at Smith Howard, leads the development and execution of human capital strategies to attract, retain, and develop top talent. Overseeing all aspects of HR, Eales ensures a supportive and high-performing work environment that aligns with the firm's mission and values. This role involves managing talent acquisition, employee relations, compensation and benefits, and professional development programs to foster a culture of excellence. By focusing on human capital, Kerry Eales supports Smith Howard's ability to deliver specialized services, including consulting and executive search, to its global clientele. The Chief Human Resources Officer's strategic approach to workforce management is essential for maintaining the firm's operational capacity and driving its continued growth and success.