Barry Melancon named chair of Baker Tilly International

Barry Melancon, who retired at the end of 2024 after 30 years as CEO and president of the American Institute of CPAs, has been named chair of global accounting network Baker Tilly International.

Melancon was named a non-executive director and chair-elect of BTI in late January of this year.

He succeeds Brian Kreischer, the chair of Top 100 Firm Frank, Rimerman & Co., who has completed his three-year term as chair.

“This is a critical moment for the global accounting profession, with Baker Tilly at the forefront of that evolution,” Melancon said in a statement on Thursday. “Over the past few months as chair-elect I have seen first-hand the commitment to progress, talent development and global collaboration, which aligns perfectly with my passion for innovation and the advancement of our profession. I look forward to continuing to work with my fellow board members and our network firms to help lead and effect that change.”

Melancon spent three decades at the AICPA, eventually combining it with the Chartered Institute of Management Accountants to create the Association of International Certified Professional Accountants, the largest membership group for accountants in the world. He also oversaw the movement to guarantee CPA mobility across the U.S., the computerization of the CPA exam, major efforts to boost audit quality, and the creation of CPA.com, among many other initiatives. He was also inducted into the American Accounting Association’s Accounting Hall of Fame.

(Read more: “The most important man in accounting.”)

“I am delighted to welcome Barry as he formally takes up his position as chair of the network. His considerable experience, including significant contributions to strategic planning and governance, means he brings valuable insights and expertise to the board, critical for the next stage of our journey,” BTI CEO Francesca Lagerberg, said in a statement. “On behalf of the network, I would like to thank Brian Kreischer for his leadership and dedication during his tenure as chair. He has been instrumental in helping to shape the vision and strategic direction of our network, ensuring we are well positioned for now, and the future.”