Smith + Howard Expands Southeastern Footprint with Strategic Acquisitions in Alabama and Mississippi

— Hagler & Brocato and Byrne|Zizzi bring the firm's total acquisitions to 11,
further strengthening its regional presence and expanding its client service capabilities —

ATLANTA, Nov. 10, 2026 /PRNewswire/ -- Smith + Howard, a nationally recognized assurance, tax, and advisory firm, today announced the acquisitions of Hagler & Brocato, a certified public accounting firm headquartered in Hoover, Alabama, and Byrne|Zizzi, an accounting and advisory firm headquartered in Tupelo, Mississippi.

The transactions closed on November 2, 2026. Financial terms were not disclosed.

The transactions further accelerate Smith + Howard's strategic expansion across the Southeastern United States, strengthening its existing presence in Alabama while establishing a footprint in Mississippi. Together, the acquisitions represent the firm's fourth and fifth strategic additions in 2026, underscoring its continued momentum and commitment to building a national accounting and advisory platform.

"These acquisitions build on the momentum of welcoming TPG Growth as our strategic partner and reflect our commitment to building a leading national firm through partnerships with exceptional regional businesses," said Sean Taylor, CEO of Smith + Howard. "Hagler & Brocato and Byrne|Zizzi bring outstanding talent, trusted client relationships, and deep local expertise. With TPG Growth's support, we're accelerating our expansion while investing in the people, technology, and capabilities that will drive long-term value for our clients."

Strengthening Smith + Howard's Alabama Presence

Founded in 2005, Hagler & Brocato serves businesses and individuals throughout the greater Birmingham area and beyond. The firm provides accounting, tax planning and preparation, bookkeeping, payroll, and business consulting services, with specialized experience serving the construction, real estate, dental, professional services, and nonprofit sectors.

The acquisition builds on Smith + Howard's existing Alabama presence, established through its September 2025 acquisition of Birmingham-based Horton, Lee & Burnett, and further strengthens the firm's ability to serve businesses across the state.

"Joining Smith + Howard represents an exciting opportunity for our clients and our team," said Charles C. "Clay" Hagler, CPA, Founder, Hagler & Brocato. "We've built our reputation on providing personalized service and trusted guidance. This partnership allows us to preserve those relationships while giving our clients access to a much broader range of resources, specialized expertise, and advisory capabilities."

Establishing a Foothold in Mississippi

Headquartered in Tupelo, Byrne|Zizzi provides tax planning and compliance, client accounting and advisory services, business consulting, and business valuation. With additional offices in Aberdeen, Houston, and Oxford, Mississippi, the women-led firm has built a reputation for strong client relationships and practical, personalized advice.

"Our clients and our people were at the center of this decision," said Emily Zizzi, CPA, CEO and President of Byrne|Zizzi. "We have built relationships that mean a great deal to me, and choosing the right firm to join was personal. Smith + Howard gives our clients access to expertise and services we have wanted to offer, and gives our team more opportunities to learn, grow, and build their careers. I'm excited about what we can do together. The people our clients know and trust are coming with us."

The acquisition marks Smith + Howard's entry into Mississippi, establishing a presence in four cities and further expanding its footprint across the Southeast.

Continued Momentum in 2026

The acquisitions build on Smith + Howard's accelerated growth since partnering with private equity in November 2022. Since then, the firm has completed 11 acquisitions, including Horton Lee in Birmingham, Alabama, further strengthening its presence across the Southeast and expanding its capabilities to serve clients nationwide. In June 2026, Smith + Howard also announced a significant investment from TPG Growth to support its next phase of national expansion, technology investment, and strategic growth.

With the addition of Hagler & Brocato and Byrne|Zizzi, Smith + Howard continues to execute a growth strategy focused on expanding its geographic reach, strengthening specialized capabilities, and bringing together talented professionals who share its commitment to client service. Most recently, Smith + Howard was named a 2026 'Best of the Best' firm by INSIDE Public Accounting (IPA), marking its 17th consecutive year receiving this prestigious national recognition.

About Smith + Howard:
Smith + Howard is a nationally recognized assurance, tax, and advisory firm combining the expertise of a national organization with the personalized attention of a trusted advisor. Through its integrated professional services platform, the firm delivers comprehensive solutions spanning assurance, tax, advisory, cyber risk, wealth management, executive search, and specialized consulting services. Serving businesses, owners, and investors across a broad range of industries, Smith + Howard helps clients navigate complex challenges, capitalize on opportunities, and achieve long-term success. Following its recent acquisitions, the firm has grown to nearly 900 professionals across 16 offices in the United States and India, with an expanding presence throughout the Southeast and key markets nationwide.

MEDIA CONTACT:
Lisa Hagendorf
Centerpiece PR for Smith + Howard
[email protected]

SOURCE Smith + Howard