RSM Canada launches alliance network
A year after entering the Canadian marketplace, RSM Canada has launched its Canada Alliance program. Accounting, tax, and consulting firm members of the alliance gain access to the resources and reach of RSM Canada, while still maintaining their independence. The RSM Canada Alliance will be led by Terri Ellis, a partner at the firm.
RSM Canada’s alliance network is the first of its kind in the country, and is modeled after RSM US’s Alliance program, which was launched almost 30 years ago – and includes more than 75 members in 38 states, the Cayman Islands, and Puerto Rico. Through membership, allied firms are able to build and enhance their practices by leveraging the infrastructure, expertise, and best practices of RSM - a global network of firms with 37,500 employees in 110 countries.
Rival midmarket accounting and consulting firm BDO USA has a similar alliance program, which allows firms to expand their services and resources without jeopardizing their autonomy or existing relationships.
As members of the new program, firms gain access to RSM Canada’s technical resources, marketing and business development, practice management, talent management, client services, and networking opportunities. The Canadian member firm of RSM International has offices in Toronto, Calgary, Edmonton, and Red Deer.Nonetheless, allied firms maintain their independence as separate business entities from RSM Canada. The first two members of the Canada Alliance are DJB, an accounting firm with offices in Burlington, Grimsby, Hamilton, St. Catharines, and Welland, and NVS Chartered Accountants in Markham, ON.
"The Alliance model is a new concept to Canada, but it is especially suited for our marketplace," said Harry Blum, managing partner, RSM Canada LLP. "The realities of our geography and our business landscape mean that small businesses are at the heart of our country's economic engine. When these firms join this program, they will be able to stay true to their Canadian roots while enjoying the benefits and resources of a global firm."
The program will be led by Terri Ellis, a business development expert with more than 16 years’ experience working with accounting and consulting firms. Previously, Ellis was Partner, Growth and Market Development at RSM Canada, where she led the firm’s strategic growth plans and oversaw all sales and marketing related activities.
Before that, she held the same role at Collins Barrow Toronto for four years, which became RSM Canada in December 2017. While there, Ellis was instrumental in growing the business from $32 million to $54 million in 4 years. Prior to Collins Barrow/RSM, Ellis held business development management roles at Deloitte, BDO Dunwoody, and Benecaid Health Benefit Solutions.