Smith + Howard, a national tax, accounting, and advisory firm, has introduced its Business Office Services practice to help independent schools address operational inefficiencies, staffing gaps, and financial challenges.
Independent schools are seen to be increasingly seeking ways to enhance operational efficiency and financial sustainability, claims the company.
The new service offering includes business office assessments, which involve evaluations to identify inefficiencies and implement best practices.
Additionally, it offers fractional leadership, offering experienced financial professionals to supply interim or part-time leadership for schools in transition.
Moreover, the latest initiative provides full or partial business office outsourcing, delivering customised solutions to help schools streamline operations while ensuring continuity and institutional knowledge retention.
By offering these customised support options, Smith + Howard aims to empower schools to implement more efficient workflows, improve financial reporting, and ensure long-term operational stability.
The solutions are also expected to tackle challenges in cost management and institutional knowledge retention.
Smith + Howard partner and Independent School Practice leader David Lee said: “Independent schools are navigating an increasingly complex financial and operational landscape.
“Our Business Office Services are designed to provide the expertise, leadership, and support these organisations need to thrive—whether that means filling staffing gaps, modernising processes, or enhancing cost-effectiveness without sacrificing quality.”
In February 2025, Smith + Howard acquired Smith Kesler & Co, an accounting firm with a focus on the construction sector.
This acquisition allows Smith + Howard to extend its client base into North Carolina and South Carolina.
