Elliott Davis announces strategic growth investment from Flexpoint Ford, completes CEO succession plan
June 12, 2025
Elliott Davis, a top 50 U.S. accounting and advisory firm, announced a strategic growth investment from Flexpoint Ford, a private equity investment firm specializing in the financial services sector. The partnership will accelerate the firm’s growth, expand its service offerings and geographic reach, and enhance its ability to attract and retain top talent—all in support of its mission to deliver exceptional service to clients and team members. Existing shareholders will remain significant owners in the firm.
As part of this new chapter, John Otten has been named Chief Executive Officer effective July 1, 2025. Otten, who has held several leadership roles over his 28-year tenure at Elliott Davis, succeeds Rick Davis, who led the firm for more than 18 years and will transition to an advisory role. This planned leadership succession reflects the firm’s commitment to leadership continuity and long-term strategic alignment.
Under the new structure, Elliott Davis will operate in an alternative practice structure. Attest services will continue to be provided by Elliott Davis, LLC, a licensed CPA firm. Business advisory and non-attest services will be delivered by Elliott Davis Advisory, LLC, which will operate as a separate entity and will not be a licensed CPA firm.
[Editor’s note – “Attest” refers to audit or review services performed in accordance with professional accounting and auditing standards]
Flexpoint Ford has a long-standing track record of supporting founder- and partner-led businesses across the financial services landscape, including several successful investments in the professional services sector. Through this partnership, Flexpoint Ford will provide strategic insight, growth capital, and operational support to help Elliott Davis navigate the evolving complexities of both the accounting profession and today’s dynamic marketplace.
Guggenheim Securities, LLC and Koltin Consulting Group advised Elliott Davis, and Nelson Mullins Riley & Scarborough LLP and Vedder Price P.C. served as legal counsel to Elliott Davis. William Blair & Company, LLC advised Flexpoint Ford, and Simpson Thacher & Bartlett LLP and Hunton Andrews Kurth LLP served as legal counsel to Flexpoint Ford.
About Elliott Davis
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. For more information, visit www.elliottdavis.com.
