Elliott Davis, a top 50 U.S. accounting and advisory firm, has secured a strategic growth investment from Flexpoint Ford, a private equity firm specializing in financial services. This partnership, alongside a CEO succession plan, positions the firm for accelerated growth, expanded services, and enhanced talent acquisition. Effective July 1, 2025, John Otten will assume the role of CEO, succeeding Rick Davis, who transitions to an advisory role after 18 years of leadership.
Elliott Davis receives strategic investment from Flexpoint Ford.
John Otten named CEO, effective July 1, 2025, succeeding Rick Davis.
Partnership to boost growth, services, and geographic expansion.
Adopts alternative practice structure for attest and advisory services.
Flexpoint Ford to provide capital and strategic support for acquisitions.
Aims to attract top talent and meet evolving client needs.
The investment from Flexpoint Ford, known for supporting founder- and partner-led financial services businesses, will fuel Elliott Davis’ expansion. The firm aims to enhance its service offerings, extend its geographic reach, and invest in technology and talent. Existing shareholders retain significant ownership, ensuring alignment with the firm’s client-first ethos. This partnership enables Elliott Davis to navigate the complexities of the accounting industry and pursue both organic growth and strategic acquisitions.
John Otten, a 28-year veteran of Elliott Davis, steps into the CEO role, bringing extensive leadership experience. “The future is bright with John at the helm,” said Davis. “He has long been a trusted advisor to our clients and a respected leader within our firm. John lives our values, embraces our mission, and is fully prepared to guide Elliott Davis into its next chapter.” Rick Davis’ transition to an advisory role ensures continuity and strategic guidance.
Elliott Davis will adopt an alternative practice structure to optimize its operations. Attest services will continue under Elliott Davis, LLC, a licensed CPA firm, while business advisory and non-attest services will be provided by Elliott Davis Advisory, LLC, a separate entity. This structure enhances the firm’s ability to deliver specialized solutions while maintaining compliance with regulatory standards.
“This marks an important milestone for Elliott Davis,” said Otten. “We are making significant investments in people, technology and services to meet the evolving needs of our clients and ensure we remain a destination employer. Our partnership with Flexpoint Ford positions us well for continued expansion through both organic growth as well as through strategic acquisitions.” Flexpoint Ford’s expertise and resources will support Elliott Davis’ strategic goals.
“Elliott Davis stands out for its client-first approach and one firm culture—hallmarks of an exceptional professional services platform,” said Dominic Hood, Managing Director at Flexpoint Ford. Jennifer Kim, Principal at Flexpoint Ford, added, “We look forward to supporting Elliott Davis’s expansion through the continued recruitment and development of exceptional talent, alongside a disciplined and strategic M&A strategy designed to enhance capabilities and extend market reach.”
This strategic investment and leadership transition mark a pivotal moment for Elliott Davis. With Flexpoint Ford’s backing and Otten’s leadership, the firm is poised to strengthen its position as a leading accounting and advisory provider, delivering innovative solutions to clients across diverse industries.
Founded in 1920 and headquartered in Greenville, S.C., Elliott Davis is a U.S. top 50 accounting and advisory firm. With a team of over 800 professionals across major U.S. markets and global alliance resources, the firm delivers tailored solutions to diverse businesses, organizations, and individuals.
With $8.2 billion of assets under management, Flexpoint Ford is a specialist private equity firm focused on middle-market investments in financial services and complementary industries, including business services and healthcare services. Since the firm's formation in 2005, Flexpoint Ford has completed investments across a broad range of investment sizes, structures, and asset classes. Flexpoint Ford has offices in Chicago, Illinois, and New York, New York.
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