04 DEC 2024 / SERVICES UPDATES

Maxwell Locke & Ritter Elevates Leadership Team with New Partners and Chief People Officer

- MYCPE ONE Insights Team

Summary

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Texas-based accounting firm Maxwell Locke & Ritter (ML&R) has announced leadership advancements, including the appointment of Punja Patel, Dan Feeley, and Laura Willard as partners and the promotion of Sarah Holcombe to Chief People Officer. The changes go into effect from January 1, 2025, highlighting the firm's efforts to foster a people-first culture and promotes excellence and innovation.

Austin, Texas-based firm Maxwell Locke & Ritter (ML&R), with a FY23 net revenue of $52.2 million, has announced significant leadership advancements effective January 1, 2025. The firm welcomes Punja Patel, Dan Feeley, and Laura Willard as partners while promoting Sarah Holcombe to Chief People Officer. These changes highlight ML&R's commitment to excellence, innovation, and fostering a people-first culture.

Kyle Parks, Leading Partner at ML&R, shared his excitement about the appointments: “We are thrilled to welcome Punja, Dan, and Laura to the partnership group. Each of them embodies the values and dedication that define ML&R. Their expertise has already made a lasting impact, and I’m confident they will play a crucial role in shaping the firm’s future. Additionally, Sarah’s passion for fostering a supportive, people-first culture will ensure ML&R remains a place where our people thrive.”

Meet the New Partners

Punja Patel, CPA – Audit Partner With over 18 years of experience, Punja specializes in audit and assurance services for industries like technology, life sciences, nonprofit, and professional services. She joined ML&R in 2012 and has been instrumental in providing tailored solutions to a diverse client base. Reflecting on her promotion, Punja said, “As Partner, I look forward to continuing to deliver exceptional client service while fostering a positive, supportive environment for everyone I interact with.”
Dan Feeley, CPA – Transaction Advisory Partner Dan brings 11 years of professional experience, including six with ML&R’s transaction advisory team, where he has contributed to over 75 deals in SaaS and technology-enabled services. “I enjoy building strong relationships with clients and management teams. The diligence process can be overwhelming, but we aim to make it seamless and efficient,” Dan shared. He looks forward to creating career advancement opportunities for his team.
Laura Willard, CPA – Tax Partner A veteran of ML&R since 2007, Laura specializes in tax advisory for high-net-worth individuals, estates and trusts, and closely held businesses. Passionate about her work with Family Office clients, Laura said, “I’m proud to join the partner group while working on a part-time schedule. ML&R truly supports both professional and personal goals, allowing me to balance my career with raising my five children.”

Sarah Holcombe – Chief People Officer

Sarah Holcombe, who joined ML&R in 2019 to lead the Talent & Culture team, steps into the role of Chief People Officer. Her team focuses on talent acquisition, employee engagement, learning and development, and human resources. Sarah emphasized the significance of her role: “I have the unique opportunity to enhance people’s lives while advancing the firm’s business goals. From the day I started, I’ve felt empowered and supported by our partners, which inspires me to give my all back to the organization.”

A Bright Future for Maxwell Locke & Ritter

With these leadership advancements, ML&R continues its legacy as a people-first firm dedicated to client success and team growth. The firm’s culture of innovation and support ensures that employees and clients alike thrive in a collaborative environment. For more details about ML&R and its leadership team, visit mlrpc.com.

Until next time…

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Maxwell Locke & Ritter Elevates Leadership Team with New Partners and Chief People Officer

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