The Chattanooga-based leader brings industry expertise and strategic tax insight to the fast-growing advisory platform.
Smith + Howard, a nationally recognized accounting and advisory firm, announced today the appointment of Travis Shears, CPA, as Office Managing Partner of its Chattanooga location, formerly Market Street Partners. He will lead the continued growth and strategic direction of the Chattanooga office, with a focus on delivering high-impact solutions to clients.
Shears joined Smith + Howard in early 2024 and most recently served as a partner in the firm’s Chattanooga tax practice. A seasoned tax executive and industry insider, he brings over 20 years of experience spanning Big Four public accounting, top regional firms, and in-house leadership at one of the nation's largest trucking companies.
“I strive to be a trusted advisor to our clients—bringing them not just accounting, tax, and business knowledge, but real insight they can act on,” said Shears. “Smith + Howard has built a dynamic accounting and advisory business, and I’m excited to help lead our efforts in Chattanooga and beyond as we continue to grow and evolve our team and our services alongside our clients.”
Before joining Smith + Howard, Shears served as Vice President of Tax at U.S. Xpress Enterprises, the fifth-largest truckload carrier in the U.S., prior to its acquisition by Knight-Swift Transportation in 2023. His experience in the logistics sector—combined with his earlier tenure at regional and national accounting firms—gives him a unique perspective on both tax strategy and business operations.
“Travis brings an exceptional blend of industry knowledge, tax expertise, and practical leadership,” said Sean Taylor, CEO of Smith + Howard. “His ability to see the full picture—from compliance to strategic growth—makes him a powerful advisor to our clients and a natural fit to lead the next phase of growth for Smith + Howard.”
Shears holds dual bachelor’s degrees in accounting and management information systems from Tennessee Technological University. He is a Certified Public Accountant and an active member of the Tennessee Society of CPAs.
“Travis is the perfect person to serve as Managing Partner for our office moving forward,” said Kevin Rose, Co-Founding Partner at Market Street Partners and current Partner at Smith + Howard. “When we founded Market Street Partners a decade ago, we knew the future success of the firm would hinge on our ability to bring the best professionals in the industry onto our team, and I am beyond happy that one of those people will be leading us as our Smith + Howard journey continues.”