Updates
Bowers Appoints Rich Smith as Partner in Charge of Tax Department
August 12, 2025
Rich Smith, CPA
Partner in Charge of Tax Department
Bowers is proud to announce the appointment of Rich Smith, CPA, as the new Partner in Charge of the firm’s Tax Department. Rich, a Tax Partner with the firm, steps into this leadership role with a strong track record of excellence in tax strategy, client service, and team mentorship.
Rich has built deep expertise in federal and state taxation, tax planning for closely held businesses and individuals, and advising clients across a wide range of industries. His collaborative approach and commitment to delivering tailored, forward-thinking solutions have made him a trusted advisor to clients and a respected leader within the firm.
In his new role, Rich will oversee the strategic direction and operations of the Tax Services Team across Bowers’ three offices in Syracuse, Rochester, and Watertown. He will be responsible for leading initiatives to enhance client experience, developing innovative tax service offerings, and supporting the continued growth and development of the firm’s tax professionals.
“Rich brings not only technical excellence, but a strong vision for the future of our tax practice,” said Mike D’Avirro, Co-Managing Partner at Bowers.
“He understands the evolving needs of our clients and has a proven ability to build and lead high-performing teams. We are confident that under his leadership, our Tax Department will continue to grow and thrive,” said Carl Austin, Co-Managing Partner at Bowers.
Rich’s promotion reflects the firm’s ongoing commitment to investing in leadership that supports both client success and internal talent development. He will work closely with firm partners and department heads to align tax strategy with Bowers’ broader mission of delivering value-driven advisory services and building long-term client relationships.
Rich holds a Bachelor of Science in Business Administration and a Master of Business Administration in Accounting, both from the State University of New York at Oswego. He is a Certified Public Accountant licensed in New York State.
“I’m honored to take on this new role and continue working alongside such a dedicated and talented team,” said Rich Smith. “As our clients’ needs become more complex, our goal is to be proactive, strategic, and responsive—always delivering service that reflects the highest standards of our profession.”
Please join us in congratulating Rich Smith as he embarks on this exciting new chapter of leadership at Bowers.
About Bowers
Bowers is a nationally recognized accounting and advisory firm with offices in Syracuse, Rochester, and Watertown, New York. For over 40 years, we have provided a full spectrum of services -including audit and assurance, tax, business valuation, forensic accounting, financial planning, and client accounting advisory services (CAAS)—to privately held and closely held businesses across a wide range of industries.
As a proud member of the AICPA’s G400, a consistent recipient of the CNY Best Places to Work award for over seven years, and recognized as a Top 300 Firm nationally, Bowers is distinguished by its integrity, deep industry expertise, and innovative approach to problem-solving. Our personalized, client-first approach is matched by our commitment to professional development and delivering strategic insights that help our clients grow and thrive in a complex financial landscape.
