06 NOV 2024 / PEOPLE UPDATES

Whitley Penn Announces Leadership Transition, Celebrating Larry Autrey’s Legacy

- MYCPE ONE Insights Team

Summary

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Whitley Penn, a top accounting and advisory firm, has announced a leadership transition starting from January 1, 2025. CEO Larry Autrey will step down after over two decades, moving into the role of Executive Chairman, and will be succeeded by Nathen McEown, with Toby Cotton becoming the new COO. This transition signifies a new era of continued growth and client service for the firm, backed by the incoming leaders' significant experience and understanding of the business.

Fort Worth, Texas – Leading accounting and advisory firm Whitley Penn (FY23 net revenue: $217.7 million) has unveiled a leadership transition marking a new era for the firm. Effective January 1, 2025, Larry Autrey, CEO for over two decades, will step down, transitioning to the role of Executive Chairman.

Taking the reins as CEO is Nathen McEown, currently the Partner-in-Charge (PIC) of Consulting and Chief Growth Officer. Meanwhile, Toby Cotton, PIC of Tax, will assume the role of Chief Operating Officer (COO).

Celebrating a Legacy of Leadership

These changes come as the firm honors Autrey’s extensive contributions to Whitley Penn, the accounting profession, and the Dallas-Fort Worth community. With over 30 years of experience in tax, advisory, and business valuation, Autrey’s tenure as CEO has been marked by remarkable growth.

Under his leadership, Whitley Penn expanded from just 50 employees to nearly 900, opening nine offices across Texas and New Mexico—eight of which were launched during his time at the helm. He also spearheaded over a dozen acquisitions, solidifying the firm’s position as a major player in the industry.

Reflecting on the transition, Autrey shared:

“I’m beyond thrilled to see this team of esteemed professionals rise into their newly elected leadership roles. I have personally mentored both Nathen and Toby for many years and believe this is the best transition strategy for the future of the firm. As tenured Whitley Penn Partners, they will hold our culture and mission of superb customer service as core pillars of what makes Whitley Penn unique. Watching Whitley Penn’s growth continue under this new leadership will be incredibly rewarding. It has been the absolute pleasure of my career to serve this great firm for over 20 years.”

New Leaders at the Helm

For Nathen McEown, his promotion to CEO is the culmination of a 20-year journey with Whitley Penn that began as an intern in the Dallas office. With a proven track record as a strategic leader, McEown is ready to guide the firm into its next chapter.

“I am incredibly honored to step into this role and grateful for the trust and support of my partners. Having started as an intern with Whitley Penn 20 years ago, I’ve had the privilege of growing alongside this exceptional firm. Larry and our firm’s leadership have continually invested so much into my growth and development, which has ultimately prepared me for this role. I’m excited and fortunate to have a tremendous leadership team by my side as we continue to build on our legacy. We are committed to leading our firm through these dynamic times while continuing to serve our clients with the same dedication and entrepreneurial mindset that has defined us.”

Similarly, Toby Cotton, a veteran member of the firm’s management committee, is eager to embrace his new responsibilities as COO.

“Having witnessed significant growth of the firm over the years, I’m honored to step into the role of COO to help build our team and balance growth while maintaining our legacy culture.”

Looking Ahead

This leadership transition underscores Whitley Penn’s commitment to its clients, team, and mission of exceptional service. With Autrey’s enduring support and McEown and Cotton at the helm, the firm is well-positioned to navigate the evolving business landscape while continuing its trajectory of innovation and growth.

Until next time…

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Whitley Penn Announces Leadership Transition, Celebrating Larry Autrey’s Legacy

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