Bober Markey Fedorovich (BMF) is making strategic moves that signal more than just internal growth—they highlight emerging trends in the accounting and advisory landscape that investors and financial advisors should watch closely. The firm’s announcement of Nathan Lieb and Allison Gill as partners, effective July 1, 2025, reflects a broader shift towards specialized expertise and leadership diversity within CPA firms.
Nathan Lieb’s rise from intern in 2012 to leader of BMF’s ASC 740 tax provision practice is a textbook example of deep specialization driving career advancement. ASC 740, which deals with accounting for income taxes, is notoriously complex and critical for multi-jurisdictional corporations navigating both public and private sectors. Lieb’s role as a trusted advisor to a spectrum of entities—from C-corporations to LLCs—underscores the increasing demand for niche tax expertise in a globalized economy. For investors, this trend suggests that firms with strong ASC 740 practices may offer more reliable tax risk management and strategic tax planning, which can directly impact corporate profitability and compliance.
Moreover, Lieb’s active involvement in academic advisory boards and community initiatives like the Akron Torchbearers and BMF’s Harvest for Hunger campaign speaks to a growing expectation that financial leaders contribute beyond the balance sheet. This holistic approach to leadership is becoming a differentiator in the advisory space, signaling to clients and investors alike that firms are embedding social responsibility into their core ethos.
On the audit front, Allison Gill’s promotion highlights the rising importance of robust audit leadership in sectors ranging from aerospace to automotive. With over 15 years of experience, Gill’s stewardship of complex audits for international and domestic companies aligns with the increasing scrutiny on audit quality and transparency, especially amid evolving regulatory landscapes. Her role as chair of BMF’s Employee Enrichment and Engagement Committee (e3) also reflects a critical trend: fostering workplace culture and employee engagement as foundational to delivering superior client service and innovation.
The simultaneous promotion of Kristian Barr and Michael Bigler to directors within the Assurance and Advisory Department further signals BMF’s commitment to strengthening its leadership pipeline in Northeast Ohio, a region that continues to attract diverse industries requiring sophisticated financial services.
For investors and financial advisors, these leadership changes at BMF offer actionable insights:
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Prioritize Firms with Specialized Tax Expertise: As tax regulations grow more complex globally, advisory firms with leaders like Lieb who specialize in ASC 740 will be better positioned to help clients navigate tax risks and opportunities. Investors should consider the tax advisory capabilities of firms when evaluating potential partnerships or service providers.
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Value Leadership That Embraces Corporate Responsibility: Firms that integrate community involvement and employee engagement into their leadership models tend to foster stronger client relationships and sustainable business practices. This can translate to more stable, long-term investment outcomes.
- Watch for Regional Growth Hubs: Northeast Ohio’s growing assurance and advisory leadership at BMF signals regional economic vitality. Investors might find emerging opportunities by monitoring firms expanding in such dynamic markets.
Looking ahead, the accounting industry is poised for continued transformation driven by specialization, technology integration, and cultural evolution. Firms like BMF that invest in both technical expertise and leadership development are setting new standards. According to a recent report by Deloitte, firms emphasizing leadership diversity and specialized advisory services are seeing up to 20% higher client retention rates—a compelling metric for investors focused on sustainable growth.
In conclusion, the elevation of Nathan Lieb and Allison Gill is more than a personnel update—it’s a bellwether for how modern CPA firms are evolving to meet the demands of a complex, interconnected financial world. For investors and advisors, aligning with such forward-thinking firms could be a key differentiator in navigating the challenges and opportunities ahead.
Source: BMF promotes Nathan Lieb and Allison Gill to partner