Smith Howard Executive and Leadership Team

Karthik Krishnamurthy, the Chief Financial Officer at Smith Howard, manages the firm's financial health and fiscal planning. Krishnamurthy architects robust financial reporting systems that support the firm's audit, tax, and advisory operations. Overseeing capital allocation and budgeting, the Chief Financial Officer ensures that resources are directed toward high-growth service areas. This leadership role involves monitoring financial performance and compliance with industry standards to maintain the firm's stability. Karthik Krishnamurthy drives fiscal discipline by implementing rigorous internal controls and financial analysis tools. By collaborating with other executives, the Chief Financial Officer ensures that the firm's financial strategy supports its long-term business objectives. Krishnamurthy manages the firm's financial risk profile, ensuring that all operations remain sustainable and profitable. Through strategic financial management, the Chief Financial Officer enables the firm to continue providing high-quality professional services to its clients across various stages of growth.

J. Sean Spitzer, the President at Smith Howard, directs the overall strategic vision and operational execution of the firm. Spitzer architects the long-term growth plan, integrating the firm's tax, accounting, and advisory services to meet the evolving needs of global clients. Overseeing the firm's family of affiliated companies, the President ensures that the integrated structure delivers comprehensive support across all service lines. This leadership role involves guiding the executive team to achieve operational excellence and market expansion. J. Sean Spitzer drives the firm's commitment to providing high-quality financial and consulting solutions. By fostering a culture of innovation and client-centric service, the President maintains the firm's reputation as a trusted advisor. Spitzer monitors industry trends and competitive dynamics to ensure the firm remains at the forefront of the accounting and consulting sector. Through decisive leadership, the President secures the firm's continued success and impact in the professional services market.

Brielle Ferrante, the Chief Marketing Officer at Smith Howard, directs all brand positioning and market outreach initiatives. Ferrante architects comprehensive communication strategies that highlight the firm's expertise in tax planning, audit, and specialized consulting services. By analyzing market trends across North American sectors, the Chief Marketing Officer ensures the firm maintains a competitive edge in attracting diverse clientele. This leadership role involves managing digital presence and content development to showcase the breadth of professional services offered. Brielle Ferrante aligns marketing efforts with the broader business goals of the firm, ensuring consistent messaging across all service lines. Through targeted campaigns, the Chief Marketing Officer drives brand awareness and supports the growth of the firm's advisory portfolio. Ultimately, Ferrante secures the firm's reputation as a premier provider of financial and consulting solutions for businesses at every stage of development.

Russ Kanner, the Chief Revenue Officer at Smith Howard, manages all revenue generation and business development activities. Kanner architects strategies to expand the firm's client base across audit, tax, and advisory service lines. Overseeing regional growth initiatives, the Chief Revenue Officer ensures that service delivery aligns with the evolving financial needs of global clients. This leadership role involves collaborating with service line leaders to optimize pricing models and service packages. Russ Kanner drives the firm's expansion by identifying new market opportunities and strengthening existing client relationships. By focusing on revenue sustainability and client retention, the Chief Revenue Officer supports the firm's long-term financial health. Kanner monitors performance metrics to ensure that all revenue-generating activities contribute effectively to the firm's overall growth objectives. Through strategic oversight, the Chief Revenue Officer maintains the firm's position as a leader in professional accounting and consulting services.

Julie Barnes, the Chief Of Staff at Smith Howard, coordinates internal operations and facilitates communication across the executive leadership team. Barnes architects organizational workflows that streamline the delivery of tax, accounting, and consulting services. Overseeing cross-departmental projects, the Chief Of Staff ensures that firm-wide initiatives remain aligned with strategic goals. This leadership role involves managing the flow of information between the board and operational teams to enhance decision-making efficiency. Julie Barnes drives operational excellence by identifying process improvements and fostering collaboration among the firm's various service lines. By managing complex administrative functions, the Chief Of Staff allows the leadership team to focus on high-level growth and client service. Barnes maintains the integrity of internal systems, ensuring that the firm operates with precision and agility. Through diligent oversight, the Chief Of Staff supports the firm's mission to provide comprehensive financial support to its diverse client base.

Kerry Eales, the Chief Human Resources Officer at Smith Howard, directs all talent acquisition, development, and retention strategies. Eales architects programs that foster a high-performance culture within the firm's tax, accounting, and consulting teams. Overseeing human capital initiatives, the Chief Human Resources Officer ensures that the firm attracts top-tier professionals capable of delivering complex financial services. This leadership role involves managing performance management systems and professional development pathways to support employee growth. Kerry Eales drives organizational health by promoting diversity, equity, and inclusion across all departments. By aligning human resources policies with the firm's business goals, the Chief Human Resources Officer ensures that the workforce remains agile and responsive to client needs. Eales manages the firm's talent pipeline, ensuring that the organization has the expertise required to maintain its market position. Through strategic people management, the Chief Human Resources Officer supports the firm's commitment to excellence in professional services.