Summers, Spencer & Co, P.A. (SS&C) of Lenexa, Kansas, has absorbed Overland Park, Kansas-based firm James F. Gillespie, CPA, P.A.

 

The merger was announced in August.

 

According to a statement issued by SS&C, the firms have worked together for more than 20 years.

 

"We know this merger will enhance our experience and strengthen our technical expertise in order to meet our clients' needs and requirements," said Skyler W. Fairchild, CPA, Vice-President of SS&C. "By merging with one of the area's foremost Employment Retirement Income Security Act (ERISA) auditors we have added an invaluable level of knowledge which we will benefit from for years to come."

 

SS&C now has more than 50 years of combined Taft-Hartley experience, and more than 100 years of ERISA experience. The merger also means SS&C has increased its workforce to more than 40 employees and nearly 20 CPAs, with offices in Lenexa, Lawrence, Topeka, and Meriden, Kansas.

 

Gillespie said the merger will allow his firm to provide additional services to clients and grow their business.

 

"The resources at SS&C, will allow us to provide additional services to current clients and to say 'yes' to prospective clients," Gillespie said. He added in the short time the merger has been in place the firm has been able to audit an additional 401K Plan and propose on another, as well as a local union, pension, health and welfare, and vacation fund.

 

Collectively both firms will be referred to as SS&C. Gillespie has agreed to stay on as partner at SS&C which also absorbed Gillespie's three member staff, according to local news reports.