“Baker Tilly has appointed Eric Miles as its new CEO, succeeding Jeff Ferro following the firm’s recent combination with Moss Adams. Miles, with extensive experience in public accounting and leadership, aims to drive growth and innovation for mid-market clients amid economic challenges. The transition includes a revamped Senior Leadership Team to enhance operational alignment and client services.”
Eric Miles has stepped into the position of chief executive officer at Baker Tilly, a prominent advisory, tax, and assurance firm catering to mid-market businesses across the United States. This move comes after the strategic combination with Moss Adams, which has positioned the merged entity as one of the largest players in the advisory CPA sector.
Miles brings a wealth of expertise to the role, having started his career in public accounting nearly three decades ago. His background spans operations, compliance, accounting, information technology, and fraud prevention. Prior to this appointment, he led consulting services at Moss Adams, managing over 50 practice areas, before ascending to CEO there.
The succession aligns with Baker Tilly’s push to redefine services in a landscape marked by economic shifts, supply chain disruptions, digital transformations, and talent shortages. Miles emphasizes bolstering the firm’s capabilities to help clients navigate these pressures and capitalize on growth opportunities.
Former CEO Jeff Ferro, who guided the firm through significant expansion, will remain on the board of directors for Baker Tilly Advisory Group, LP. Industry observers note that this continuity supports ongoing stability while injecting fresh strategic direction.
Strategic Focus Under New Leadership
Miles plans to prioritize execution by aligning strategy with operations, ensuring the firm scales efficiently without compromising its culture or service quality. Key areas include investing in talent, fostering innovation, and delivering tailored solutions for clients facing accelerated change.
This approach is expected to benefit mid-market companies, particularly in sectors like manufacturing, healthcare, and technology, where advisory needs are evolving rapidly. Baker Tilly’s enhanced scale post-combination allows for broader resource deployment, from tax optimization to risk management and digital advisory.
New Senior Leadership Team
To support these goals, Baker Tilly has implemented a restructured Senior Leadership Team, all reporting directly to Miles. This team is designed to accelerate integration, promote growth, and improve client experiences.
| Role | Name | Responsibilities |
|---|---|---|
| Chief Strategy Officer | Jere Shawver | Oversees strategy, growth, and innovation functions |
| Chief Operating Officer | Nancy Mann | Manages operations, including finance, human resources, information technology, and risk |
| Chief Growth Officer | Matt McGowan | Handles market development, client experience, and marketing |
| Chief Client Officer | Debbie Hadley | Directs service delivery across advisory, tax, and assurance practices |
| Chief People Officer | Terri Allen | Leads talent management, culture, and inclusion initiatives |
This lineup reflects a comprehensive review of the firm’s operations post-merger, aiming for greater focus, speed, and innovation in client delivery.
Implications for the Accounting Industry
The leadership shift at Baker Tilly underscores broader trends in the U.S. accounting sector, where consolidations are creating larger firms capable of competing with Big Four entities on specialized services. Mid-market clients stand to gain from access to integrated advisory offerings that address complex regulatory environments and technological advancements.
Stakeholders, including private equity partners like Hellman & Friedman, view this transition as a commitment to long-term success, with an emphasis on disciplined growth and high standards.
Disclaimer: This news report is provided for informational purposes only and does not constitute financial advice, investment recommendations, or endorsements. Sources are not disclosed.
