What's Happening?
RSM US LLP and RSM UK Holding Limited have announced the formation of a transatlantic partnership set to commence on January 1, 2026. This partnership, approved by a near-unanimous vote from partners, aims to align governance, financial incentives, client
service, and growth investments across the firms. While the partnership does not constitute a full financial merger, it establishes a new leadership structure with US leader Brian Becker as chief executive. The partnership will bring together 23,000 professionals across several countries, including the US, Canada, Ireland, India, and El Salvador, with a combined revenue of $5 billion. The move is designed to enhance the firms' ability to serve the evolving needs of clients and strengthen their position in the middle market.
Why It's Important?
The partnership between RSM US and RSM UK is significant as it represents a strategic move to increase scale, collaboration, and synergies without resorting to private equity ownership, a path taken by other mid-market accountancies. This approach allows the firms to make quicker and bolder decisions and investments, particularly in emerging technology sectors. The partnership is expected to drive growth and client wins that would be challenging to achieve independently, thereby reinforcing their market position. The collaboration also highlights a trend in the accounting industry towards forming alliances that enhance service offerings and operational efficiencies.
What's Next?
The partnership is expected to facilitate the inclusion of other RSM member firms in the future, potentially expanding the network's reach and capabilities. As the firms integrate their operations, they may explore further opportunities for collaboration in technology investments and client service enhancements. Stakeholders, including clients and employees, will likely observe changes in service delivery and organizational structure as the partnership progresses.
Beyond the Headlines
This partnership may influence other mid-market firms to consider similar alliances as a strategy to navigate the competitive landscape without relinquishing control to private equity. The focus on technology investments could lead to innovations in service delivery, impacting the broader consulting and accounting industry.
