CHICAGO — April 5, 2022 — Melanie Barnes recently joined Sikich as an audit partner in the company’s assurance practice. Barnes has more than 17 years of experience providing technical accounting expertise and helping for-profit companies maintain compliance requirements and achieve their strategic visions.
“Melanie is an excellent fit for Sikich because she understands the needs of privately held and private equity-owned businesses. She has always gone the extra mile to exceed expectations and add value to help companies meet their business goals,” said Antony Nettleton, partner-in-charge of Sikich’s assurance team and Northern Illinois offices. “Sikich had a record growth year in 2021. Melanie’s passion to help clients streamline processes and leverage technology positions us well for continued success, and we are delighted to welcome her to our team.”
Before joining Sikich, Barnes was a director at Navistar Inc. Prior to joining Navistar, she spent more than a decade at Grant Thornton LLP, working in various roles supporting a diverse mix of companies – from private equity-owned organizations to family-run businesses. She joined Navistar in 2017 where she served initially as a senior manager of technical accounting. Barnes was named director in 2020. She earned both a bachelor’s degree and master’s degree in accountancy from Wake Forest University.
“Sikich’s audit team delivers excellent client service by combining industry knowledge, robust policies, technology and, most of all, a skilled team of practitioners who are passionate about their clients’ businesses. The firm and the audit practice differentiates itself through strong client relationships, which are the foundation for partnerships that allow Sikich to help clients meet their compliance requirements, navigate business challenges and capitalize on opportunities to innovate and grow,” noted Barnes. “I am excited to bring in-depth experience serving for-profit companies in a variety of industries, as well as perspective as a client from my time in industry. I look forward to serving the firm’s valued clients and supporting Sikich’s continued growth.”
About Sikich LLP
Sikich LLP is a global company specializing in technology-enabled professional services. With more than 1,400 employees, Sikich draws on a diverse portfolio of technology solutions to deliver transformative digital strategies and ranks as one of the largest CPA firms in the United States. From corporations and not-for-profits to state and local governments and federal agencies, Sikich clients utilize a broad spectrum of services* and products to help them improve performance and achieve long-term, strategic goals.
*Securities offered through Sikich Corporate Finance LLC, member FINRA/SIPC. Investment advisory services offered through Sikich Financial, an SEC Registered Investment Advisor.
