CELEBRATING 40 YEARS OF CONVERSATIONS THAT MATTER & CONNECTIONS THAT LAST
JIM MEADE, CEO AND MANAGING SHAREHOLDER, LBMC, PC
Dear LBMC Family, Clients, and Community,
As we mark the 40th anniversary of LBMC, it is with deep gratitude that we reflect on the remarkable journey we have taken, and the significant milestones achieved along the way. Founded in 1984 by a team of 12 talented and driven individuals, LBMC has grown from its entrepreneurial roots into a Top 40 national firm in traditional accounting, tax and assurance services as well as business consulting, technology, and wealth advisory solutions. Our success is a testament to our dedication to our clients, our people, and our community.
From the outset, our founders did not aspire to be the biggest; they sought to be the best —one that prioritized client relationships, fostered innovation, and upheld a human-centric culture as its guiding principle. These core values have guided LBMC through four decades of change and expansion.
LBMC clients: Today, we proudly serve over 11,000 clients across the nation, and through every stage of our growth, we have remained committed to excellence. As we look to the future, we see a rapidly changing business landscape driven by advancements in technology and AI, an evolving workforce, and new client needs. We are prepared to embrace these challenges and capitalize on the opportunities they bring, all while maintaining our unwavering focus on client service.
Our people: At the heart of LBMC’s exceptional client experience is our team. We are dedicated to fostering a workplace where our people can thrive, grow, and innovate. By investing in their continuous development based on individualized career goals, we equip our team with the tools needed to deliver exceptional service and drive meaningful client outcomes.
Technology: In an era of unprecedented technological change, we remain at the forefront of innovation strategically leveraging specific new technologies. This enables us to deliver tailored solutions that meet the dynamic needs of our clients and our people, ensuring we continue to provide unmatched value.
Growth: Our focus on growth is not just about expanding LBMC’s footprint; it’s about deepening our impact. We strive to create enduring relationships with our clients, fostering a culture of continuous improvement, and contributing positively to the communities we serve. Our growth is measured not only in numbers but in the difference we make every day.
As we celebrate this significant milestone, I would like to extend my heartfelt thanks to our clients for their trust and loyalty, to our team for their dedication, and to the communities we proudly support. Together we have built a legacy of excellence, and together we will continue to chart a bright course for the future.
Thank you for being an integral part of LBMC’s journey.
James R. “Jim” Meade, CPA Chief Executive Officer LBMC
Back in 1984, when Jim Lattimore, Charles Black, David Morgan, and Mike Cain came together to establish LBMC as a new and different kind of accounting firm, there were no computers on our desks and no cell phones in our pockets. Electric typewriters and landlines were the order of the day. A description of the Internet back then would have sounded like science fiction.
A lot has changed over the last 40 years. But the fundamentals - LBMC’s caring, people-first principles the company founders established all those years ago - have remained steadfastly in place as the company has grown into one of the nation’s top accounting and business consulting firms.
Today’s LBMC is an industry leader in audit, tax, advisory, technology, human resources, and wealth advisory services backed by an experienced, dedicated team more than 900 strong. We continue to bring a sense of transformation to everything we do, always evolving and moving forward with new visions and practices delivered by the very best people to serve our growing list of clients and collaborators. At LBMC, we owe our success to the fact that we have always kept our clients front and center and put people first. We are intentional about nurturing experts who keep their eye on growth, and we are committed to creating successful clients, happy and productive
employees, and thriving communities. In these pages, we take the opportunity to reflect, to share our story, and to honor and celebrate the people who have been a part of this four-decade journey. We thank you for helping us build LBMC into a regional powerhouse. Here’s to the next 40 years! n
Shareholder and former LBMC CEO Jeff Drummonds
Mike Cain.
NASHVILLE | KNOXVILLE | CHATTANOOGA | CHARLOTTE | LOUISVILLE
(left) is pictured with LBMC co-founders David Morgan (center) and
A LONG ROAD, A TRUSTED PARTNERSHIP
lthough Richard Hagemeyer, cofounder and owner of Agmark, has spent the last 40-plus years strategically growing his commodities trading company into an international shipping company, he still has to pause when asked to talk about trading commodities.
PHOTOGRAPHY: SHERI ONEAL
“Most people simply don’t understand commodities,” Hagemeyer says with a chuckle.
“It’s just not that easy for most people to grasp. But that difficulty is why we aligned with LBMC back in 1988. Our bank at that time thought trading
commodities meant we were gamblers. We needed an audit to help the bank understand that we were hedging, not speculating.”
One person who has had little trouble grasping the ins and outs of Agmark’s business is LBMC’s John Litchfield. Over the course of four decades and countless boardroom and back porch strategy sessions, he’s helped Hagemeyer navigate the ups and downs of a complex, changing logistical and regulatory landscape. It all started with a tip Hagemeyer received from a very reliable source.
“My father, a CPA, gave me recommendations,
and I already knew [LBMC co-founder] Mike Cain,” Hagemeyer says. “Being a small company ourselves, it was important to me to have somebody I could work with that I knew and trusted, but also wasn’t a giant firm.”
Today, Agmark Logistics stands as a global leader in intermodal bulk liquid transport, delivering innovative solutions to and from any place on earth. They work with some of the world’s largest food and beverage companies, shipping hundreds of commodities like orange juice or tequila, utilizing their fleet of proprietary ISO tank containers to seamlessly ship loads interchangeably between trucks, rail, and ocean carriers.
As Agmark has steadily innovated and grown, LBMC has done the same, expanding its range of services to accommodate the client’s needs. Combining a high level of professionalism and expertise with an inborn entrepreneurial spirit, LBMC has consistently delivered the kind of innovative solutions that have helped companies like Agmark grow.
“LBMC continued to develop solutions that were as good or better than what we could do ourselves,” Hagemeyer says. “Over the years, they have added very significant services to their portfolio. Today, they have the capabilities to do all kinds of things that allow us to focus on our markets while we let them do the things they do best.”
For Agmark, LBMC’s services have ranged from audit work, federal and state tax preparation integrated with Agmark’s overseas companies, business valuations, payroll, accounting software, personal trust and estate planning, and estate tax reporting.
“Every person at LBMC has been high quality,” Hagemeyer says. “You can tell that they take pride in their company and their work. You can sense that LBMC values its people, and that commitment shines through in the work they do.”
Agmark, like many of LBMC’s legacy clients, is family owned. Hagemeyer established the company with his brother Duncan in 1984, leveraging their complementary expertise in
transportation and marketing to create a new kind of firm in the era of deregulation. Accounting duties in those fledgling days were handled by Richard Hagemeyer’s wife, Carole. As the company grew, so did the family.
“I was there in the beginning when we worked out of our home,” Carole recalls. “When LBMC came along, I was expecting our second child. After that, I kind of retired from the business after hiring our bank auditor to replace me. She is now our VP of Finance, and our controller is an LBMC alum.”
With both siblings long since grown and installed at Agmark, their dad has stepped away from dayto-day operations. The Hagemeyers are currently busy creating an enduring legacy of their own. With its long history of successful succession planning, LBMC has been especially helpful as Agmark transitions into a new era. For Richard Hagemeyer, that kind of long-term care and trust have made all the difference.
“LBMC has always been available,” he says. “Regardless of what’s happening, whether things are going right or wrong, it pays to have trusted advisors at your side that fully understand what you do. When you need them, they’re there. LBMC has been an integral part of our success.” n
Opposite page: Agmark’s Richard Hagemeyer (left) and LBMC’s John Litchfield swap stories from their long, successful journey together.
Below: John Litchfield (right) shares some backporch reminiscence with Richard Hagemeyer and his wife, Carole.
Learn more about Agmark at agmark.com.
BUILDING A LEGACY OF TRUST
ob Petty and LBMC have made a lot of history together. In fact, Petty was doing business with LBMC founder Jim Lattimore before LBMC even existed. As one of LBMC’s very first clients, Petty and his company, Commercial Painting, Inc. (CPI), have shared a fruitful 40-year journey, with CPI growing alongside LBMC to become a regional leader in the commercial painting industry.
and to work through those early hurdles. It was the beginning of a trusting relationship that has spanned the decades, with both companies finding big success in their respective markets.
PHOTOGRAPHY: SHERI ONEAL
“I had been a partner in another firm for about seven years, but I knew nothing about running a business,” Petty recalls. “That first year, I don’t think we made any money, but we had a chance to build it slowly, and that’s what we did.”
LBMC co-founder David Morgan was there at the start to help Petty set up his business properly
“My first job was to help Bob with some accounting records and get them going,” Morgan says. “Back in those days, there weren’t any computers, so we set up manual accounting records and just talked about all the things that had to get done to make sure CPI was staying in compliance.”
Over the course of 40 years, what began as a partnership focused on immediate start-up accounting needs soon expanded to encompass a wide array of services, including personal and business tax returns, comprehensive tax
“LBMC is definitely our most trusted partner. Anytime we’ve got a question, I can call Mark up in a heartbeat and just ask him.” – Jon Petty
consulting, estate planning, and entity structuring. As their business expanded, LBMC grew alongside them, supporting HR, payroll, and employee benefits needs. Greg Herman, CFP® and Managing Partner of LBMC Investment Advisors, further enhanced this by adding wealth management to the comprehensive services offered under one roof.
Today, Commercial Painting stands as one of the largest painting subcontractors headquartered in Nashville. Bob and Jon Petty are renowned in the commercial painting industry for their meticulous attention to detail and commitment to quality craftsmanship. Their expertise not only enhances aesthetic appeal but also ensures durability and longevity in diverse commercial environments. The company works with general contractors delivering quality painting, wallpapering, and other related work and has a specialty in wastewater projects.
While Nashville’s booming development over the past couple of decades has been good for business, prosperous times have come with some unprecedented challenges, including a sharp increase in competition and a shortage of willing, qualified workers.
As a longtime LBMC client, however, Bob Petty understands the importance of taking the long view; he’s witnessed the preemptive and proactive approach LBMC has always taken to growing the next generation of leaders. Easing into retirement, Petty feels fortunate to have a built-in successor in his son Jon, who, after 20 years with the company, has officially taken the helm at CPI.
Having built a solid, decades-long relationship with LBMC, Petty can rest easy knowing he’s leaving CPI in the hands of a trusted partner and resource
who understands his business and continues to have the company’s best interest in mind. And that relationship continues to grow today.
Mirroring the close relationship enjoyed by David Morgan and Bob Petty over the years, the younger Petty now turns to LBMC Shareholders/CPAs Chuck Tomlin and Mark Blackburn for a range of services, advice, and trusted counsel. With deep experience in auditing, accounting, and tax matters for privately held and family-owned companies, LBMC’s younger leaders are today’s steady, reliable partners in an ever-evolving business.
What sets this partnership apart is its resilience and ability to adapt, even through leadership transitions. This enduring collaboration is a testament to the power of trust and the value of a partner who evolves alongside you.
“LBMC is definitely our most trusted partner,” Jon Petty says. “I’ve grown up with David Morgan as a key advisor for the family. Today, that has expanded. Anytime we’ve got a question, I can call Mark up in a heartbeat and just ask him. There is much comfort in that.” n
page:
Learn more about Commercial Painting, Inc. at cpinash.com.
Above: CPI’s Jon Petty (left) and LBMC’s Mark Blackburn: a new generation building on a tradition of trust and service
Opposite
CPI’s Bob Petty (left) and LBMC’s David Morgan: 40 years of successful collaboration
A MULTI-GENERATIONAL SUCCESS STORY
BMC had been in business for barely a year when Bill Vallett, Sr. came knocking, seeking an accounting firm for Lochinvar, his family’s rapidly growing Nashville-based water heater manufacturing company. That initial meeting was the start of a fourdecade-long relationship that saw both companies grow exponentially to become
innovative leaders in their respective industries. LBMC co-founder Mike Cain remembers those early meetings, and how both parties immediately began to benefit.
“Lochinvar was growing their business at the same time we were growing LBMC,” Cain says. “We spent a lot of time learning from each other, and I learned some basic things that we adopted in our
PHOTOGRAPHY: SHERI ONEAL
business. Many of the family-owned companies that we started working with in 1984 are still in business, and we generally still have them as clients.”
“It’s been a really great relationship from that standpoint, to be able to grow our businesses together,” Vallett, Jr. says. “Over the years, LBMC started developing and adding new services, and we needed those services.”
In fact, Lochinvar has utilized just about every aspect of LBMC’s growing list of services. What started as an audit, tax, and a basic accounting relationship expanded into areas including IT, staffing, cybersecurity, valuation, and more. But, for Cain and Vallett, it goes deeper than any service or offering.
“The idea that it’s nothing but a service just doesn’t get you very far,” Cain says. “The relationship we have with our clients has been personal to us always. These are important issues for our clients, and it’s how we make a living.”
The roots of Lochinvar go back to Detroit in 1939 when Vallett, Jr.’s grandfather established the company as the Walter Vallett Company. After successfully growing the business, he passed the torch to his son, Bill Vallett, Sr., in the 1960s. The company made the move to Nashville in 1969, acquiring the Wagoner Water Heater Company. Fast forward to the late-1970s, when the U.S. faced a crippling oil embargo and a subsequent energy crisis. Where his competitors saw the need for layoffs, Bill Vallett, Sr. saw a rare opportunity.
“My father saw it as a vision for the beginning of an everlasting race for energy efficiency,” Vallett, Jr. says. “He decided to hire some good engineers to develop high-tech, high-efficiency products.”
Lochinvar’s energy-saving innovations became a game-changer for the industry, and the company was soon custom-training technicians to service these newly engineered units.
A booming business meant new challenges and fresh, third generation leadership, as Vallett, Jr. and his siblings stepped up to take the helm at Lochinvar in 1980.
The team of Bill, Jr. and his brothers Tom and Jeff have now guided Lochinvar through four decades of dynamic growth, working closely with a new generation of leaders at LBMC. With Lochinvar at the top of its game, the siblings made the difficult decision to sell the company in 2011, and LBMC was there to help facilitate that complex process.
“Over the years, LBMC started developing and adding new services, and we needed those services.”
– Bill Vallett, Jr.
Over the years leading up to and following the sale, the Vallett family turned to LBMC for help with estate planning. Once again, those enduring trusted relationships came fully into play, this time coming full circle, in service of a longtime client.
“If you were to ask me about the greatest thing LBMC has done for our family, I would say it is twofold - actively listening and evolving with us as we grew and ensuring a smooth transition from generation to generation,” Vallett, Jr. says. “Relationships like those with Greg Herman and LBMC Investment Advisors also brought invaluable expertise. LBMC became true lifelong business partners—something rare to find.” n
Learn more about Lochinvar at lochinvar.com.
Far left: Lochinvar’s Bill Vallett, Jr. (left) is pictured in conversation with LBMC’s Mike Cain.
Below: LBMC’s Jeff Drummonds (left) is pictured with Bill Vallett, Jr. (center) and LBMC’s Mike Cain.
1980s
The Foundation Years
LBMC was founded with a mission to serve clients and enjoy doing it, marking the beginning of a client-centric legacy.
1990s
Building Client Relationships
LBMC established pivotal partnerships laying the foundation for enduring client relationships.
2000s
Technological Advancements
LBMC embraced technological advancements, integrating cutting-edge solutions into its services for enhanced efficiency.
2010s
Industry Recognition
LBMC achieved recognition as one of the top 50 firms in the country, reflecting its growth and excellence in professional services.
2020s
LBMC Cares Foundation Launch
LBMC strengthened its commitment to community outreach by launching the LBMC Cares Foundation.
COMPANY FOUNDED with the formation of the accounting firm Lattimore Black Morgan and Cain, PC.
RETIREMENT PLAN ADMINISTRATION added
Merger with MCWILLIAMS & COMPANY in Knoxville
Merger with PETTY & LANDIS (P&L) in Chattanooga
FAMILY OFFICE founded MANAGED SECURITY SERVICES (now CyberMaxx) founded
Firm adds Business Valuation Services and Litigation Support
PHYSICIAN BUSINESS SOLUTIONS founded
JEFF DRUMMONDS becomes CEO and Managing Shareholder
LBMC TECHNOLOGIES (now Technology Solutions) founded
LBMC adds PAYROLL OUTSOURCING, STATE and LOCAL TAX SERVICES and NETWORK ENGINEERING
STRATEGIC STAFFING (now Staffing Solutions), INVESTMENT ADVISORS and EMPLOYMENT PARTNERS founded
RISK SERVICES founded
Firm adds IT ASSURANCE SERVICES, HEALTHCARE CONSULTING, LIFO SERVICES and MERGERS AND ACQUISITIONS
LBMC CARES FOUNDATION launched INTERNATIONAL TAX PRACTICE added BUSINESS APPLICATIONS services added
LBMC TECHNOLOGY SOLUTIONS merges with INTERDYN ARTIS in Charlotte
Acquired THINK DATA INSIGHTS in Brentwood
CYBERMAXX is acquired by PERISCOPE EQUITY Acquired Knoxville-based IT SOLUTIONS STROTHMAN AND CO., an accounting firm based in Louisville, Kentucky, joins LBMC
JIM MEADE becomes CEO and Managing Shareholder
DAVID MORGAN | A Founder’s Vision OUR LEGACY LEADERS
The roots of LBMC run deep, but they don’t run too far. Back in 1984, Lattimore, Black, Morgan & Cain launched their fledgling accounting enterprise from a little house just down the road from the company’s present Brentwood, Tennessee headquarters, a sparkling glass edifice. Today, that impressive building houses over 600 of the 900 people that power LBMC’s diverse group of consulting companies. And 40 years on, it’s those same people that inspire David Morgan to continue to come into work.
“Along about June of ‘84 we decided we wanted to do something different, something new,” Morgan says. “We wanted to create a good place to work with good people and good clients and enjoy doing it. Part of our success has been simply articulating a core purpose and core values –extraordinary competence, absolute integrity, high expectations and accountability, and continuous learning and innovation.”
Decades before the words “company” and “culture” came together in our vocabulary, LBMC’s founders were pioneering a new and
better approach, which they felt was essential to business and personal success.
“The big firms back then did a lot of things right, but they didn’t take care of their people very well,” Morgan says. “I’m proud of the fact that we have so many people here today who have good jobs, and they’ve advanced along with their careers. They do things that are fun and interesting, they’re learning, and they get paid well so they can take care of their families.”
Morgan and recently retired co-founder Mike Cain attribute much of LBMC’s growth over the years to the caring relationships they’ve been able to build both internally and with clients. Asked to pinpoint the most gratifying aspect of his LBMC journey, Cain doesn’t hesitate.
“It’s definitely the people,” Cain says. “I look back and I see the impact that LBMC has had on the profession, on our community, on our clients’ lives, and on our employees’ lives; it’s created a platform for people to have long, successful careers.”
Both Morgan and Cain came up in the traditional accounting environment, working in an industry known for employee turnover. Armed with a bold dream and a uniquely entrepreneurial mindset, they envisioned a multi-faceted firm built organically on the success of employees and clients alike. With offices in Nashville, Knoxville, Chattanooga, Tennessee, Charlotte, North Carolina, and Louisville, Kentucky serving over 11,000 clients, the founders’ vision has come brilliantly to life in today’s LBMC.
“I’m very proud of what we’ve created here and that I had a little piece in shepherding it along,” Morgan says. “There were lots of good people along the way who really impacted what we’ve done and what we will become.” n
JEFF DRUMMONDS |
A Legacy of Growth & Innovation
When Jeff Drummonds succeeded the founders and took over as Managing Shareholder and CEO in 2015, LBMC was well into a period of unprecedented growth, rapidly evolving from a highly trusted and traditional accounting firm into a comprehensive business solutions partner. Managing and continuing that growth was the job at hand, and Drummonds, a big-picture thinker and well-liked community leader, was ready to take things to the next level.
“I think it is important to be grounded in a few core beliefs, and we had a couple,” Drummonds says. “One was ‘What is best for our clients and how can we better serve them?’ And balance that with, ‘What is best for our team? What provides them with opportunity and keeps them engaged?’ If you keep those two things front and center, you’ll generally get it right.”
Over the course of nine successful years leading the company, Drummonds certainly got it right, prioritizing innovative service offerings and people skills in equal measure while building upon LBMC’s well-established entrepreneurial spirit and commitment to community.
As he passes the baton, Drummonds sees recently appointed CEO Jim Meade as perfectly equipped to tackle a set of challenges very different from those he faced when he took the reins at LBMC nine years ago.
“I think our team created a vision and accomplished some great things, but Jim is likely a better operator than I am,” he says. “He has his finger on the pulse of the market and also has the mindset to turn LBMC’s vision into a reality. David Morgan often reminded us that success is never final. You must stay after it every day, and you have to stay hungry. I’m confident Jim will do that.”
Drummonds leaves a strong track record of successes. In addition to expanding the breadth and depth of LBMC’s service offerings and talent pool, his tenure saw the company’s community outreach expand greatly. With the annual Lending Hands initiative launched in 2017 and the establishment of the LBMC Cares Foundation in 2022, team members have eagerly embraced the opportunity to get involved to make their communities more successful.
“A lot of it has been keeping our eyes and ears open to what our clients need beyond just core CPA services,” Drummonds says. “We want to be truly invested in our clients’ success, support and create opportunities for our team, and also go beyond business to be an integral part of the communities where we work.” n
JOHN LITCHFIELD |
Raising a “Family of Companies”
In an industry where employee turnover can be on the high side, John Litchfield is one glaring –and very caring – exception. Joining LBMC back in 1988, he has witnessed the company’s evolution first-hand, giving him a uniquely comprehensive view of LBMC’s wide-ranging operations as well as its history.
“I’m a big believer that after 10 or 12 years of doing something, you ought to try to reinvent yourself a little bit,” Litchfield says. “I’ve had the good fortune to be able to do that here at LBMC.”
Coming up through the ranks as an auditor, Litchfield eventually interfaced with every sector of a rapidly growing firm and was on hand for every step in LBMC’s exponential growth. He recalls a conversation from a late ‘90s-era off-site shareholder meeting.
“These are our clients, and these are the things they need.”
“We put the clients in the middle, and we drew these circles around the periphery. Then we said, ‘These are our clients, and these are the things they need.’” Litchfield says. “We then created companies to fill those needs, and it’s been a wonderful evolution for these companies over time. David Morgan and Mike Cain have always been very good at finding talent and putting the right person in the right chair. As a result, these companies have been very successful.”
Litchfield currently oversees the LBMC family of companies, essentially everything that is not the accounting firm. It’s a job he is passionate about and for which he is, of course, uniquely qualified. He also brings an attention to detail and an exceptional degree of empathy and concern to
everything and everyone he touches at LBMC.
“We’re all sharing the same vision of being a group of folks who care not only for our employees and our clients, but also for the communities we work in,” Litchfield says. “You won’t find employees who care more about their clients and each other than we do.”
With his deep roots in the firm, John Litchfield relishes the task of overseeing the growing, wideranging family of LBMC companies, currently including LBMC Employment Partners, LBMC Investment Advisors, LBMC Physician Business Solutions, LBMC Procurement Solutions, LBMC Staffing Solutions, LBMC Technology Solutions, and LBMC W Squared. Like a trusty Swiss Army knife, LBMC today has grown to offer clients an array of uniquely useful tools to help them at every stage in the life of their business.
“I’ve been here for the birth of every one of these companies,” Litchfield says. “At the core of all of this is the undeniable strength of the LBMC brand, and it can’t be discounted. It is the cornerstone that helps this family of companies be what they are.” n
JIM MEADE | Fresh Leadership for Changing Times
It’s been said that there are two kinds of leaders in the world, those who have an innate propensity for the role and those who learn through experience. Recently appointed LBMC CEO and Managing Shareholder Jim Meade fits comfortably into both of those categories.
Over the course of his 25-year career at LBMC, Meade has had a hand in many aspects of LBMC’s business. He takes the reins at a time of groundbreaking change and increasing competition, and he’s proactive in adapting to those changes, with an intentional strategy that builds on the founders’ tradition of transforming challenges into opportunities.
“David and Mike were visionaries, and they embraced entrepreneurial concepts years before most of our peer firms did,” Meade says. “They were willing to take on the business risk of launching new non-traditional services that our clients needed.”
From evolving workforce expectations to AI and other technological innovations, it’s a different profession today, and Meade is quick to express the necessity of taking a panoramic, holistic view.
“Transformation is occurring at an unprecedented pace, and we are a global society in every sense of the word,” he says. “What’s working well today might not work a year from now, or five years from now. We must anticipate that and organizationally adapt to where we need to be for our clients and our people.”
LBMC’s expansion has traditionally been organic in nature, the result of listening carefully and responding thoughtfully to the changing needs of clients. That focus on client experience has not changed under Meade’s leadership. What has changed is the company’s overall approach to growth.
Whether it’s top-line talent recruitment or key market and service expansion, Meade sees a far more strategic and intentional approach going forward.
“Maintaining and growing our business is critical, and in today’s and tomorrow’s profession organic growth will not be enough,” he says.
Even as he navigates LBMC through a new set of challenges and obstacles, Meade is adamant about keeping the company’s commitment to its people and clients front and center.
“Talking to our clients is really important,” Meade says. “We’ve always emphasized client relationships and client interaction. We’re not just a service delivery; we’re intentional about knowing our clients. LBMC is still very much in the relationship business.”
Whether it’s serving on the board of directors of the Community Foundation of Middle Tennessee or promoting the LBMC Cares Foundation, Meade, along with leaders and team members across the organization, believes leadership and giving back extend well beyond the company walls.
“Leadership continues to evolve, and we don’t start developing new leaders at the last minute,” Meade says. “We’re developing future leaders now. We have placed and continue to place more young leaders than we ever have, and they’re working side-byside with more experienced leaders. We are preparing for the future today.”
With his oft-repeated mantra, “We can do better,” Jim Meade is ready to challenge the status quo and prepared to embrace the innovations and the young innovators that will move LBMC strategically forward n
LEADERSHIP TEAMS
ADVISORY TEAM
MARK BURNETTE - Chief Growth Officer and Advisory Practice Leader | CHRIS LOVIN –
Shareholder and Practice Leader, Valuation and Litigation Support Services | LISA NIX –Shareholder and Practice Leader, Transaction Advisory Services | DREW HENDRICKSONShareholder and Practice Leader, Cybersecurity | JON HILTON - Shareholder and Practice Leader, Consulting and Business Intelligence
TAX TEAM
KYLE BALDWIN – Shareholder, Tax
JEFF TALLEY – Shareholder, Tax
AMY VAN BUREN – Shareholder, Tax
BEN CARVER – Shareholder, Tax
BLAKE HARRISON – Shareholder, Tax
Not pictured: APRIL MITCHELL – Shareholder, Tax
NEIL ZINSER – Shareholder, Tax
AUDIT TEAM
Back row, NICK HILL – Shareholder, Audit | COURTNEY BACH –Shareholder, Audit | CHAD MILOM – Shareholder, Audit
Front row, MARK WATERS - Shareholder, Audit
Not Pictured
NICOLE JEPPESEN - Chattanooga Market Leader and Shareholder, Tax | ANDY LOWE - Knoxville Market Leader and Shareholder, Valuation and Litigation Support Services
BILL MEYER - Kentucky Market Leader and Shareholder
BOARD OF DIRECTORS MARKET LEADERS
Front row, l to r: JAMES R. (JIM)
MEADE – CEO and Managing
Shareholder | JEFF TALLEY –
Shareholder, Tax | BEN CARVER – Shareholder, Tax | Back row, l to r:
MARK BURNETTE – Chief Growth Officer and Advisory Practice Leader
PAUL DEMASTUS – Chairman of the Board and Shareholder, Audit
COURTNEY BACH, Shareholder, Audit
MARK WATERS – Shareholder, Audit
PAUL BURRIS – Shareholder, Tax
ANDY LOWE - Knoxville Market Leader and Shareholder, Valuation and Litigation Support Services
LBMC Supports & Celebrates Community!
A Steadfast Commitment to Meaningful Connection & Selfless Contribution
Community spirit is nothing new at LBMC. It’s baked into our DNA. LBMC was founded 40 years ago on the core principle of giving back to and investing in the communities where we work, live, and serve. Over the past few years, LBMC has doubled down on our long-term commitment to positively impacting our communities with our dollars and time.
In the fall of 2022, the company launched the LBMC Cares Foundation, driven by the passion and dedication of LBMC team members. The employeeled Foundation broadens our impact in uplifting and empowering our communities and further strengthens our long-running community service efforts, while supporting programs such as Lending Hands, United Way, and dozens of other outreach projects.
Each year, LBMC team members volunteer hundreds of service hours at nonprofits across the U.S., giving back through hands-on volunteering, serving on boards and committees, and more. There are some very exciting things on the horizon for the LBMC Cares Foundation and our community outreach program, including expanded community partnerships, scholarships, and employee donation options. Stay tuned. n
At LBMC, We Grow Experts
At LBMC, growing our people has always been central to the growth of our business. We continually invest in team members through a wide range of learning and development programs for every stage of their career and personal growth. LBMC is diligent in fostering a uniquely collaborative culture with an unwavering commitment to developing future leaders in the company. Through programs like Amplify, New Leaders, Rising Stars, Experienced Leaders and even LBMC Alumni Connect, we share an entrepreneurial spirit that is as inspiring as it is contagious.
LBMC’s continuing education opportunities begin even before onboarding with our Amplify program, where interns engage with team members across all levels at LBMC. On-demand training programs are available for all LBMC team members and include opportunities to work on a variety of professional development and leadership areas, including client service, business development, public speaking, giving and receiving feedback, professionalism, time management, DISC and more. Success Factors (our competency model) provides a framework for every team member for what it takes to be successful, to continue to grow professionally, and to have fun doing it! n
A Proud, 40-Year Tradition of Continued Advancement and Improvement
LBMC team members participate in New Leaders, Rising Stars, Experienced Leaders Academy, Learning Week, Amplify, and various Business Resource Groups.
Awards & Distinctions
ACCOUNTING TODAY
Pacesetter for Growth Top 100 Firms
Regional Leaders Best Firms for Technology
AMERICAN CITY BUSINESS JOURNALS
Top 100 Financial Influencer USA Industry Giant
FORBES
America’s Best Accounting Firms
America’s Best Tax Firms FORTUNE Best Workplaces™
Consulting & Professional Services
GREAT PLACES TO WORK Great Place to Work™ Certified INC
Best in Business
INSIDE PUBLIC ACCOUNTING Top 100 Firms
M&A ADVISOR
Emerging Leader
NASHVILLE BUSINESS JOURNAL Fast 50 Women of Influence 40 Under 40
Top Private Companies Best in Business
NASHVILLE AREA CHAMBER OF COMMERCE
Nashville Emerging Leader Awards (Finalists and Winner)
NASHVILLE HEALTHCARE COUNCIL Women to Watch
NASHVILLE POST In Charge Leaders
TSCPA
Lifetime Achievement - Apex Awards Women to Watch - Apex Awards
USA TODAY
Most Recommended Tax & Accounting Firm
WHAT’S THE WORD?
WHAT CLIENTS ARE SAYING
“LBMC has been our audit partner for 10 years. They have learned our business and been a valuable partner for our complicated activities over the years. They do not hesitate to communicate where we need to adjust our methods to ensure proper reporting and compliance.”
“The team is personable. I do not feel like we are just a $$ sign. Each member takes the time to work with our team, so the process is quick but effective.”
“We have developed a long-standing relationship with LBMC - not just a contractual obligation to the work being performed. From audit and tax to employment services via the PEO, LBMC’s services allow us to focus on manufacturing while leveraging our office duties without having to carry additional overhead.”
“LBMC has been a critical partner for us since relocating to Middle Tennessee. They are not only local, responsive, and collaborative, but also have a deep understanding of the manufacturing industry that has proved valuable to our growing business.”
“LBMC is a trusted partner. I feel comfortable asking LBMC highly technical and complicated questions about our control environment and any potential impacts to our compliance capabilities. The team is always professional and easy to work with.”
“Expertise, responsiveness, professionalism, excellent communication, integrity. The LBMC people I work with treat us like we are their only client.”
“Everybody there is freaking smart! As a small business owner I can’t tell you how comforting it is to know that LBMC has got my tax & financial needs met!”
“What I appreciate most about working with LBMC is their unwavering commitment to accuracy and quality. The professionalism and expertise of LBMC as a firm make them a valuable partner in ensuring our IT security, integrity, and compliance, and their team demonstrates excellent communication and responsiveness.”
INNOVATION AND CLIENT EXPERIENCE AT THE HEART OF LBMC’S FUTURE
As LBMC celebrates our 40th anniversary, we remain focused on delivering an exceptional client experience. Looking to the future, we are committed to adopting advanced technologies that enhance both operational efficiency and the value we provide to clients. From AI to investigating interactive client portals, we are leading with purpose — exploring innovations that truly make a difference.
Beyond AI – A Strategic Approach to Innovation
While AI plays a significant role in our strategy, it’s part of a broader vision to leverage technology that directly improves client outcomes. We prioritize tools that streamline processes and enhance communication for a seamless experience.
Cutting-Edge Tools Shaping Our Future
THINK: Smarter Decision-Making for Audit, Tax, and Advisory – THINK, our proprietary AI-powered research tool, organizes complex tax codes, accounting standards, and regulatory guidance, allowing our professionals to make faster, more informed decisions and helping us deliver accurate solutions that drive client success.
Harmonize: Real-Time Project Monitoring –
Harmonize is designed to transform how we plan and manage engagements. It ensures engagement efficiency, smoother project delivery, effective budgeting, and real-time monitoring. Clients benefit from timely team collaboration and the ability to make adjustments mid-stream, improving outcomes.
Laurel: AI-Assisted Timekeeping – Laurel automates and optimizes the time-entry process. It reduces manual entry, freeing up our team to focus on value-added tasks. This tool will also help identify potential efficiency issues early, before they impact client engagements.
MAI: Intelligent Marketing for Personalized Client Interaction – Our marketing AI tool, MAI, is refining how we engage with clients. MAI ensures our messaging is timely, relevant, and personalized— strengthening our ability to meet client needs in real-time.
Expanding Client Portals and Self-Service Options
Looking ahead, we are committed to expanding our client portals to offer more interactive content and self-service options. These portals will enable clients to access real-time data, track project progress, and interact with our team in a streamlined, user-friendly environment. By enhancing our digital capabilities, we aim to empower clients with the tools and resources they need at their fingertips, elevating their overall experience.
The Road Ahead
At LBMC, innovation is not just about technology—it’s about enhancing the relationships and service that have defined us for 40 years. As we continue to evolve, we will adopt tools that align with our core mission: delivering exceptional client experiences. Whether through AI, automation, or client-facing digital platforms, our future is one of continual growth, always with a focus on the needs of our clients. The best is yet to come! n
Conversations That Matter. Connections That Last.
In 1984, twelve visionaries set out to create something extraordinary – a firm built on meaningful conversations and lasting connections, a place where clients became partners, innovation was driven by necessity, and a human-centric culture thrived.
Forty years later, LBMC stands as a testament to this bold vision. From boardrooms to ballparks, from back porch meetings to the back nine, we’re there for our clients – wherever and whenever they need us. Your trust has been the cornerstone of our success. Thank you for being a part of our journey.
