September 2025 Recap: Accounting Industry Firm Updates in 10 Mins

From Jonathan Smidt’s bold debut with SAINVUS to Tom Watson’s reappointment at Forvis Mazars and KPMG’s leap into AI Assurance, September 2025 was a month of decisive moves and leadership clarity. Across the profession, firms like Grant Thornton, Aprio, and EisnerAmper are redefining how scale, innovation, and strategy intersect. Whether it’s mergers, executive transitions, or next-gen tech rollouts, these updates reveal how today’s accounting leaders are setting the tone for tomorrow’s profession all in just 10 quick minutes. 

M&A Updates

Ex-KKR Partner Launches SAINVUS, Acquires Schulman Lobel

Former KKR partner Jonathan Smidt has launched SAINVUS, a new platform focused on acquiring and scaling CPA firms across the U.S., starting with Schulman Lobel. With $23 million in revenue and offices in New York, New Jersey, and Los Angeles, the deal blends investment capital with cultural independence. It’s a fresh take on firm consolidation led by private equity veterans. This could reshape how CPA practices will grow in the next decade. 

Grant Thornton Advisors Expands Platform into France, Spain & Belgium

Grant Thornton Advisors is pushing deeper into Europe with new offices across France, Spain, and Belgium, adding nearly 4,000 professionals to its global ranks. Backed by New Mountain Capital, the expansion strengthens cross-border tax, advisory, and M&A capabilities while keeping local audits independent. The move positions Grant Thornton as a global mid-tier powerhouse. How far can its multinational model scale before it rivals the Big Four’s reach? 

Aprio Expands Midwest Presence with Mize CPAs & Prism Financial Acquisition

Aprio is doubling down on the Midwest, acquiring Mize CPAs and Prism Financial Group to expand its franchise, payroll, and wealth management capabilities. The merger adds over 300 professionals and $1.8 billion in managed assets, reinforcing Aprio’s hold in the Quick Serve Restaurant and franchise space. As regional firms gain national ambitions, could Aprio’s integrated model become the blueprint for sustainable growth? 

Thomson Reuters Acquires Additive to Streamline Tax Document Processing

Thomson Reuters has acquired Additive, a San Francisco startup known for its GenAI-powered tax document automation. The technology helps accountants process complex K-1s faster and more accurately, freeing up time for advisory work. With staffing shortages and deadlines tightening, automation is becoming essential rather than optional. This could be the start of an AI-driven overhaul in how tax firms handle compliance workloads? 

Haynie & Company Expands Consulting and ERP Services with Simple Numbers

Haynie & Company is expanding its consulting footprint by merging with Simple Numbers, enhancing its expertise in ERP, NetSuite, and business performance analytics. The move strengthens Haynie’s ability to deliver integrated financial and operational strategies that drive growth for clients. As more firms shift from traditional accounting to strategic advisory, is this the model that will define the next generation of firm services? 

Savant Wealth Management Acquires PrairieView Partners

Savant Wealth Management has acquired PrairieView Partners, a St. Paul-based CPA-led RIA, expanding its Midwest presence and deepening its wealth management expertise. The deal unites two firms built on client trust, tax integration, and employee ownership. As more RIAs look to scale without losing their identity, Savant’s approach of blending culture with capacity can set the standard for future mergers. 

People Updates

Forvis Mazars Reappoints Tom Watson as CEO for Four-Year Term

Forvis Mazars has reappointed Tom Watson as CEO for another four-year term beginning June 2026. Watson, who guided the 2022 BKD–DHG merger and global alliance with Mazars, continues to shape the firm’s international expansion and culture of collaboration. His next chapter will focus on strategic investments and talent growth as Forvis Mazars cements its global footprint. Can Watson’s leadership sustain the firm’s momentum in an increasingly competitive global market? 

Dean Dorton President and CEO David Bundy to Retire; Jason Miller Named Successor

After more than a decade of transformative leadership, Dean Dorton’s longtime CEO David Bundy will retire in 2025, handing the reins to Jason Miller in early 2026. Miller, who currently leads technology and advisory services, is credited with driving innovation and modernization. With a strong foundation and clear succession plan in place, Dean Dorton’s next chapter will continue to blend its legacy of excellence with a bold, tech-driven vision for growth. 

KPMG LLP Names David Fine as National Managing Principal for Legal and Regulatory

KPMG has appointed David Fine as national managing principal for legal and regulatory, expanding his oversight on litigation, risk, and compliance strategy. A seasoned legal leader with experience at top law firms, Fine aims to strengthen cross-firm collaboration and governance while reinforcing KPMG’s culture of integrity and innovation. As regulatory demands intensify, how might Fine’s leadership shape KPMG’s approach to navigating complex legal and compliance challenges ahead? 

RKL Announces CEO Transition and New COO Appointment

RKL LLP is gearing up for a major leadership transition, with Mike De Stefano set to become CEO in September 2026, succeeding longtime leader Ed Monborne. Known for his operational focus and growth mindset, De Stefano’s promotion signals a new era for the firm. Meanwhile, Rachel Sargent joins as COO, reinforcing RKL’s commitment to performance and client service. With this leadership refresh, how will RKL sustain its momentum as it scales nationally. 

CohnReznick Adds Somer Washington as Partner in Financial Sponsors and Financial Services

CohnReznick welcomes Somer Washington as a partner in its financial sponsors and financial services practice. Based in Dallas, she brings 20 years of experience spanning private equity, private credit, and fund audits. Her technical expertise in multi-firm, cross-border engagements make her a valuable addition as deal activity picks up. Could Washington’s arrival signal CohnReznick’s deeper push into the high-growth world of alternative investments and global asset management? 

Citrin Cooperman Announces Key Leadership Appointments

Citrin Cooperman has unveiled a slate of leadership promotions designed to fuel growth and innovation across its service lines. Shawn Howard becomes president of non-attest services, Robena Jafari steps up to lead tax, and Ken Kirkland takes the new role of chief growth officer. With additional leadership in markets and client experience, the firm is positioning itself for a new phase of expansion. Will this refreshed leadership team redefine how Citrin Cooperman drives long-term success. 

Service Updates  

KPMG Expands AI Trust Services with New AI Assurance Capabilities

KPMG has introduced a suite of AI Assurance services to help organizations deploy generative AI responsibly and in compliance with global standards like SOC and HiTrust. The offering blends AI governance, model validation, and real-time system assessments through partnerships with Microsoft, ServiceNow, and Cranium. As companies race to integrate AI across business functions, will KPMG’s approach become the benchmark for trusted, accountable AI in enterprise governance? 

CBIZ Launches Vertical Vector AI for Middle-Market Businesses

CBIZ has launched Vertical Vector AI, a practical AI platform designed for middle-market companies. Built on Microsoft Azure AI, it converts business data into actionable insights with minimal manual input and integrates seamlessly with existing systems. With its simple rollout and real-time collaboration through Teams, CBIZ aims to make AI adoption accessible and secure. This could be the solution that finally bridges the AI gap for mid-sized organizations. 

Audit Sight Launches Audit & Review Analytics Module

Audit Sight has rolled out its Audit & Review Analytics Module, built to automate financial analysis across industries and systems. The tool enhances anomaly detection, trend analysis, and ratio tracking, helping auditors focus on insights rather than spreadsheets. With stronger evidence and time savings, the module redefines audit efficiency. As automation reshapes assurance work, can innovations like this elevate how firms deliver value and build client trust? 

EisnerAmper Joins Coalition for Health AI to Advance Responsible Innovation

EisnerAmper has joined the Coalition for Health AI (CHAI) to help set standards for ethical and transparent use of AI in healthcare. Through its Digital Health Services team, the firm will collaborate on frameworks covering governance, bias mitigation, and clinical oversight. The partnership underscores EisnerAmper’s role in shaping responsible innovation. As AI becomes central to healthcare, such alliances ensure that technology enhances trust as much as efficiency. 

Conclusion

As 2025 winds toward its final quarter, one thing is clear: the accounting profession is no longer standing still. Firms are investing in platforms, leadership, and AI-powered solutions that promise both agility and resilience. The moves made this month hint at what’s next, a future where scale meets specialization, and strategy meets technology. Stay tuned, because the next wave of updates might just redefine the playbook once again.