Blog Layout

Meyers Brothers Kalicka, P.C. Announces Strategic Expansion with the Inclusion of J.M. O'Brien & Co., P.C.

Dec 13, 2023

Strategic Growth: Enhanced Service and Expertise

Bringing J.M. O'Brien & Co. to MBK signifies a strategic move towards growth and expansion in the accounting industry of Western Massachusetts. MBK stands to benefit from the influx of new talent and a broader resource pool, enriching the firm's already substantial depth of resources. The merger is particularly advantageous for MBK's tax services, which will be able to leverage J.M. O'Brien's extensive expertise to enhance its range of tax-related services. "I had the pleasure of working with Jay for almost ten years when we both were at the former Coopers & Lybrand (now PWC) in Springfield. I am very excited to work with him again. This prior experience with him gives me great confidence in the quality of his team," said Partner, Kris Houghton.


Leadership and staff from both firms have already started to unite, fostering camaraderie at various mixers and the annual tax training sessions, indicating that the integration of the two entities is set to be a smooth transition. Partner Kristi Reale shared, “This partnership is rooted in a shared culture and similar client base, ensuring a seamless integration of J.M. O'Brien into MBK's operations”. Jay O’Brien echoed this sentiment, “Having known and worked with members of MBK over the years, we collectively bring a great resource of professional experience, a depth of professional knowledge in many aspects of servicing our client base and potential clients”. With the added depth of knowledge and resources, MBK is well-positioned to offer a broader range of specialized services, including advanced tax planning and compliance, audit and assurance services, and business consulting. 


Commitment to the Future

Looking ahead, MBK is better equipped than ever to serve the evolving needs of its clients for generations to come. “This move will allow MBK to increase our depth of resources within the firm, adding to the value of service that we strive to provide our clients. Both firms are built around the core values of people, culture, community and service, making the addition of the J.M. O’Brien staff a great fit and addition to the MBK team,” said Senior Manager, Matt Nash. 


Further, the integration underscores MBK's dedication to ensuring stability and succession planning. Partner Jim Krupienski shared, “Celebrating our 75th anniversary, succession is always at front of mind at MBK. Not only will this alliance help to solidify the succession for the team and clients of JOB but allow MBK to strengthen its own team and resources for future success”. Rudy D’Agostino, Partner added, “At MBK, our goal is to remain independent and ensure that the next generation of leaders are being developed to continue as a local independent firm offering a full array of services to businesses and individuals. The addition of team members from JM O’Brien will assist in our succession process over the next 5 to 7 years”.


This strategic move signifies MBK's largest scale of expansion since the pivotal merger of 2004, marking a significant milestone in the firm's trajectory towards continued growth and excellence. Partner, Howard Cheney stated, “I’m really looking forward to adding their experience and expertise to our team and building upon the reputation that Jay has developed over his years in practice with his firm”. MBK steadfastly upholds its enduring mission that has distinguished the firm for 75 years: to offer unwavering depth and quality in its team for every client, to consistently deliver superior work products, and to apply its extensive experience to effectively address the accounting and financial objectives of its clients. 



Welcome New Staff to MBK

Clients of JM O’Brien should contact the team leader that they work with or contact Reception@mbkcpa.com with any questions.












This material is generic in nature. Before relying on the material in any important matter, users should note date of publication and carefully evaluate its accuracy, currency, completeness, and relevance for their purposes, and should obtain any appropriate professional advice relevant to their particular circumstances.

Share Post:

Handle Your Estate Planning Documents with Care

By Sarah Rose Stack • 01 May, 2024
The family of a person who unexpectedly dies should know how to find and access the deceased’s estate planning documents. If that’s not currently the case, that person’s well-laid estate plan can be derailed. This article details the steps to take to keep family members in the loop.

The Benefits of Cost Allocation

By Sarah Rose Stack • 22 Apr, 2024
Cost allocation can be a cumbersome task for nonprofits, especially organizations with many activities. However, the process is critical for multiple reasons, and it’s worth reviewing cost allocation practices regularly to ensure they’re working as intended. This article covers the reasons to make allocations and the various methods used.

SECURE 2.0 opportunities : Take advantage of 2024 and 2025 updates

By Sarah Rose Stack • 15 Apr, 2024
President Biden signed the Setting Every Community Up for Retirement Enhancement (SECURE) 2.0 Act into law in late 2022, but much of the wide-reaching retirement legislation is being phased in over time. There are some significant changes in 2024 and 2025 that may help nonprofit employers recruit and retain employees. This article presents what organizations need to know. A brief sidebar looks at how SECURE 2.0 boosts the advantages of qualified charitable distributions (QCDs), possibly leading to larger gifts for nonprofits.
Show More
Share by: