HBK Just Bought MKS&H. Here’s the Real Story Behind the Deal

Why HBK Wanted This Deal

HBK has been hunting for expansion markets with strong middle market activity, and Maryland fits that bill. MKS&H gives them an instant presence in Timonium and Frederick, plus long standing relationships across construction, real estate, distribution, nonprofit services, manufacturing and international tax.

What MKS&H Brings to the Table

The firm brings 7.5 million dollars in annual revenue, four principals and thirty one employees. It also brings something HBK did not have before: a full blown specialization in the deathcare industry. For HBK, that is a new niche, a new skill set and a new path to more advisory work.

How This Changes HBK’s Footprint

HBK already operates across several states with around eight hundred employees and seventy principals. Maryland fills a key geographic gap between its Northeast and Mid Atlantic operations. With this deal, HBK now connects its New Jersey, Pennsylvania and Ohio presence with new ground in Maryland.

The Bigger Play Behind This Move

This deal matches HBK’s broader pattern. In October, it bought KHS in northern New Jersey. Earlier in the year, it added Acuity Human Resources. Before that, it folded in Zapken and Loeb in New York and Vertical Solutions in Pittsburgh. HBK is moving steady, adding talent, adding markets and adding niche industries without slowing down.

Who’s Joining HBK From MKS&H

Managing partner Kathleen Davis is joining alongside audit principal Wayne Baldwin, tax principal Jennifer Milas and audit principal Barbara Walker. All four bring decades of experience and industry relationships that HBK can start scaling immediately.

What Clients Can Expect Next

Clients of both firms now get access to a deeper team, more specialized advisory services and HBK’s wealth management arm. For middle market companies, that means stronger audit support, broader tax expertise and access to a bigger bench without losing the personal service MKS&H was known for.

The Accounting Industry Angle

Regional accounting firms are consolidating faster than ever. Talent shortages, tech costs and expansion pressures are pushing firms to merge in order to compete. HBK’s move into Maryland shows how mid sized national firms are positioning themselves to grab more market share before the next wave of consolidation hits.

Quick Facts

• MKS&H founded more than 80 years ago
• HBK founded in 1949
• MKS&H revenue: 7.5 million dollars
• HBK revenue: 176 million dollars
• New offices added: Timonium and Frederick
• Total new hires: 35

Summary

HBK’s acquisition of MKS&H is not just a geographic expansion. It is a strategic move that adds new talent, new niches and new markets. It strengthens HBK’s East Coast footprint and continues the firm’s steady march toward becoming one of the most dominant middle market accounting platforms in the region.