Leadership transition announced at Weaver

Fort Worth-based independent accounting firm Weaver has announced a leadership transition with John J. Mackel III replacing Tommy D. Lawler as CEO and managing partner in mid-2015. As CEO, Mackel will focus on continued growth of the firm, its service offerings and brand, according to a news release from the firm. Mackel has more than 17 years of public accounting experience and currently serves as Weaver’s partner-in-charge of industry practices. Mackel also sits on the executive committee and provides services to clients in the energy and financial services industries. Based in the Houston office, Mackel will split time between all of the firm’s offices, including its headquarters in Fort Worth.

“John has consistently demonstrated his passion for the success of the firm and its people,” said Lawler, who, after the transition in June 2015, will continue to serve the firm’s top clients. “John brings great perspective and experience to this role. The executive committee and I have the utmost confidence that his leadership skills, client service experience and collaborative approach will carry the firm’s strategy to the next level.”

Mackel joined Weaver as an assurance partner in January 2007 with the firm’s expansion into the Houston market through the merger with McDonald, Fox & Lund P.C. In October 2010, he was named the partner-in-charge of industry practices, responsible for leading and transforming the firm’s go-to-market approach and growth strategy across its focus industries. From 2007 to 2010, Mackel served as the director of energy services for the firm. He was appointed to the executive committee in June 2009. “Weaver has grown in both size and reputation under Tommy’s leadership, and I am honored to have the opportunity to serve as the firm’s new managing partner and CEO,” said Mackel. “I look forward to leading the firm as it adapts to changes in the economy, business environment and the profession, and to position Weaver for continued long-term success.”

Founded in 1950, Weaver currently has approximately 500 employees and Texas offices in Austin, Dallas, Fort Worth, Houston, Midland, Odessa and San Antonio. The firm also has offices in Stamford, Connecticut and Los Angeles, California, and operates in Denver, Colorado. Weaver is ranked the largest independent accounting firm in the Southwest by Accounting Today magazine. The firm is also ranked the 38th largest firm in the United States by INSIDE Public Accounting.