Big Merger Alert: BDO Joins Forces with Horne LLP
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Top 10 accounting giant BDO USA is merging with Mississippi-based Horne LLP—its biggest expansion yet, set to close on November 1. This bold move strengthens BDO’s footprint across the Southeast and boosts its firepower in disaster recovery and government services.
Horne, ranked #31 on the Top 100 Firms list, brings 1,300+ employees and 30 principals to the table. Once merged, BDO plans to launch BDO Government Services LLC, leveraging Horne’s sector expertise.
Why Horne? BDO CEO Wayne Berson says it's all about culture fit: “People first” is more than a motto—it’s the glue binding these two firms. Horne CEO Rusty Butcher echoes that sentiment: “It just clicked. Same values, same mission.”
Interestingly, this is BDO’s first major deal since going ESOP (employee-owned) in 2023. That structure helped seal the deal—both firms agree it better rewards teams and steers clear of private equity’s culture clashes.
Why This is Important
This merger signals more consolidation in the profession. It reflects where the global profession is heading: bigger firms, deeper specialisation, and a renewed focus on people over profit.
Source Article: Accounting Today
