Join 250,000+
professionals today
Add Insights to your inbox - get the latest
professional news for free.
Ascend Expands with Acquisition of Jackson Thornton
Join our 250K+ subscribers
Join our 250K+ subscribers
Subscribe01 MAY 2026 / M&A UPDATES
Top 25 US accounting firm Ascend has announced the acquisition of Alabama-based regional firm Jackson Thornton, incorporating 30 partners and over 160 employees into its ranks. The partnership, which forms part of Ascend's growth strategy, aims to enhance integrated service delivery in accounting, wealth, and advisory services, and further strengthen Ascend's position in the accounting and advisory industry.
Top 25 accounting firm Ascend has announced the acquisition of Jackson Thornton, a prominent Gulf Coast Regional Leader based in Montgomery, Alabama. This strategic move adds significant resources to Ascend, incorporating 30 partners and over 160 employees from Jackson Thornton into its operations. The financial terms of the deal have not been disclosed.
Jackson Thornton, known for its multidisciplinary expertise, operates six offices across Alabama and generates over $41 million in revenue. The firm specializes in industries such as auto dealerships, construction, healthcare, government, manufacturing, not-for-profit organizations, and telecommunications. Ascend's president, Nishaad Ruparel, highlighted the alignment of both firms' visions, emphasizing the potential for integrated service delivery in accounting, wealth, and advisory services.
Founded in 1919, Jackson Thornton has built a strong reputation and a $2 billion wealth management franchise. CEO Alan Alexander expressed enthusiasm about the partnership, noting that it allows Jackson Thornton to remain independent and locally led while providing clients with enhanced resources and technology. The collaboration is expected to create new opportunities for Jackson Thornton's team, fostering career growth and shared ownership.
Ascend, launched three years ago by private equity firm Alpine Investors, has been actively expanding its footprint. The firm, based in Arlington, Virginia, works with accounting firms generating between $15 million and $50 million in revenue. Ascend's founder and CEO, David Wurtzbacher, expressed pride in partnering with Jackson Thornton, recognizing the firm's longstanding trust within its market.
This acquisition is part of Ascend's broader growth strategy, which has included several other acquisitions across the United States. With this latest addition, Ascend continues to strengthen its position as a leading player in the accounting and advisory industry.
Until next time…
Don’t forget to share this story on LinkedIn, X and Facebook
Subscribe now for $199 and get unlimited access to MYCPE ONE, from CPE credits to insights Magazine
📢MYCPE ONE Insights has a newsletter on LinkedIn as well! If you want the sharpest analysis of all accounting and finance news without the jargon, Insights is the place to be! Click Here to Join
You’ve reached the 3 free-content piece limit. Unlock unlimited access to all News & CPE resources.
Subscribe Today.
Already have an account?
Sign In
-1777622245.webp)
-(2)-1776076832.webp)
-1775654678.webp)
