CHICAGO – August 17, 2026 – Sikich, a professional services company specializing in consulting, technology and compliance, today announced that Principal, Audit & Assurance practice leader Melanie Barnes, CPA, MSA, has been named to Crain’s Chicago Business’ Notable Leaders in Accounting, Consulting & Law. With more than 21 years of experience in accounting and assurance services, Barnes was recognized for her leadership in advancing the company’s assurance practice through operational transformation, talent development and strategic technology innovation.
As leader of the company’s Audit & Assurance practice, Barnes oversees more than 275 professionals globally and has been instrumental in transforming how the company delivers assurance services. She has championed strategic investments in AI, technology and talent development to enhance audit quality, consistency and efficiency, while leading a redesign of the for-profit assurance delivery model. Barnes also played a key role in redesigning and operationalizing Sikich’s National Office of Quality Management, positioning the Audit & Assurance practice for continued growth and client impact.
Barnes is among a select group of accounting leaders recognized by Crain’s Chicago Business for their professional accomplishments, industry impact and community involvement. Honorees were selected for their ability to drive meaningful change within their organizations and contribute to the strength and future of the accounting profession. She serves on the Board of Directors of Sikich LLC and the board of CFOrward, where she supports connection, community and mentorship among finance leaders. She also actively mentors professionals within Sikich and volunteers in her local community.
To view the full list of Crain’s Chicago Business Notable Leaders in Accounting honorees visit https://www.chicagobusiness.com/recognitions/notable/accounting-consulting-law/2026/
About Sikich
Sikich offers the public and private sectors a diverse platform of professional services across consulting, technology and compliance. Highly specialized and hands-on teams deliver integrated solutions rooted in deep industry experience. Our approach is strategically and thoughtfully designed to help our clients, teams and communities accelerate success.
Sikich has approximately 2,500 team members and operates across North America, EMEA and APAC.
Sikich practices in an alternative practice structure in accordance with the AICPA Professional Code of Conduct and applicable law, regulations, and professional standards. Sikich CPA LLC is a licensed CPA firm that provides audit and attest services to its clients, and Sikich LLC and its subsidiaries provide tax and business advisory services to its clients. Sikich CPA LLC has a contractual arrangement with Sikich LLC under which Sikich LLC supports Sikich CPA LLC’s performance of its professional services. Sikich LLC and its subsidiaries are not licensed CPA firms.
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