Long-time consulting executive Brian Becker has been appointed as CEO of RSM US, the fifth largest provider of accounting, tax and consulting services in the U.S.

RSM US is the American member of the RSM accounting network, which competes with Big Four firms such as Deloitte and EY. RSM US accounts for about 40% of the global network’s total revenue, which exceeded $7 billion last year.

Becker is replacing former RSM US boss Joe Adams as part of a succession plan originally announced last year. Adams, who has been with the consulting giant since 1979, will continue in an unspecified global strategy role.

The obvious pick

The decision to name Becker as RSM US’ top executive last year likely didn’t take many rank and file employees by surprise. The executive was a natural choice for the CEO role given that he previously led RSM US’ consulting division, which is by far the fastest growing part of its business.

RSM’s North America revenue grew by 15% last year. Its consulting business grew more than 3 times as fast, by 50%.

RSM US’ consulting business is active in many markets. It helps corporate clients manage their IT infrastructure and also provides assistance with the implementation of business plans.

As the head of RSM US’ consulting business, Becker played an instrumental role in driving its revenue growth. The executive will now be expected to apply his growth know-how to RSM US’ other divisions, namely its accounting and tax groups, which represent the bread and butter of the firm’s revenue base.

Becker is a certified public accountant with a specialty in technology. A notable aside: he earned his accounting degree at the University of Northern Iowa in Cedar Falls, the city where RSA US was founded in 1926.

Becker stepped into the CEO suite with a few words of gratitude to his predessor. “We are in a position of strength thanks to Joe’s outstanding leadership, and I look forward to harnessing that strength as we evolve in a dynamic digital and global environment,” he remarked. 

“RSM is fortunate to have great clients and outstanding people, and we are committed to providing them both with compelling experiences that help them excel and meet the future with confidence,” Becker added. 

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