At Cherry Bekaert, being a digitally driven Firm means more than providing clients with technology-forward solutions. It also means that the Firm itself is committed to in-house digital transformation, using automation to improve the experience of its people and deliver better efficiencies in its business model. The Firm’s digital transformation journey is centered around creating a culture that values innovation and embraces change.
Embracing digital transformation is essential for any business to remain at the forefront of innovation. Cherry Bekaert’s leadership knew that evolving the business would be vital to empowering clients to thrive in an ever-changing digital world. That’s when they implemented Reimagine X, a multi-year strategy that prioritizes integration and exploration across the business. The strategy aims to not only solve for “X,” but to reimagine the way the Firm views its digitally driven and industry-aligned solutions while preparing for what’s next.
A strategic investment from Parthenon Capital in 2022 was monumental in allowing the Firm to execute on this plan. Cherry Bekaert was one of the first in a growing trend of accounting firms to receive private equity investment. In addition to supporting Reimagine X initiatives, the investment has helped spur several acquisitions throughout the U.S.
By embracing innovative technologies such as automation, the Firm can more effectively communicate with clients and employees, speaking through a common language that fosters collaboration and understanding. Integrating automation and other cutting-edge technologies has allowed Cherry Bekaert associates and clients alike to have an elevated experience in a seamless and innovative ecosystem where everyone thrives.
Taking steps to streamline project execution, the Firm is building multiple automation modules which align with its overall strategic goals of:
- Defining and implementing step-by-step workflows with automation that all offices can follow through one unified interface.
- Moving knowledge from employees’ heads into solutions to simplify work.
- Developing a technology-neutral architecture to swap out core systems without changing the workflow and user experience for employees.
One of the key benefits of this automation initiative is making space for Cherry Bekaert’s people. This automation initiative empowers employees to focus on high-impact tasks, ultimately enhancing their client relationships.
A Lesson to All Growth-Minded Organizations
Cherry Bekaert firmly believes that investing in digital transformation—specifically automation—can benefit all organizations. The efficiencies gained through automation can allow organizations to delve deep into their clients’ challenges, anticipate future needs, and provide comprehensive and forward-thinking solutions. The Firm lives this out by displaying curiosity and asking insightful questions, thereby improving internal operations and fostering stronger relationships with clientele. By leveraging technology to optimize processes, empowering employees, and building a resilient infrastructure, Cherry Bekaert has positioned itself for sustainable growth and success in the years to come.
What it Means for Georgia
Associates from Cherry Bekaert’s three offices in Georgia experience first-hand the benefits and ambitions of Reimagine X each day. The Firm has had a presence for decades in Atlanta and Augusta, and expanded to Alpharetta in 2018. The associates from these offices serve the middle market, focused largely on the Technology, Industrial Manufacturing, Real Estate, and Government & Public Sector industries.
Cherry Bekaert at a Glance
- 75+ years in business
- Ranked a Top U.S. Accounting Firm by Accounting Today and Inside Public Accounting
- 30+ offices serving clients across the U.S. and Internationally
- 3 offices in Georgia (Atlanta, Augusta, Alpharetta)
