Baker Tilly acquires Alirrium, a leader in Robotic Process Automation

• Chicago-based Baker Tilly (FY23 net revenue of $1.6 billion) and the 10th Largest firm in the US, acquires Alirrium! 
• Alirrium specializes in Robotic Process Automation (RPA), using software robots to automate repetitive tasks and improve business efficiency.
• This acquisition follows a large private equity investment in Baker Tilly by Hellman & Friedman and Valeas Capital Partners in early 2024,

When will this deal become effective?

Baker Tilly and Alirrium have partnered since 2022.

Starting November 1, 2024, Baker Tilly will utilize robots, AI, and machine learning to help clients work faster and more efficiently.

Companies working with Baker Tilly will gain access to the latest technology.

This new deal will transform how businesses operate with smart robots and automation.

Why is Baker Tilly gaining Alirrium’s automation expertise?

• Improve business operations
• Alirrium’s RPA tools complete tasks faster and more accurately than humans. These tools can sort data, manage customer information, and check for errors.
• Together, Baker Tilly and Alirrium will help businesses modernize and save time.
• The partnership will reduce mistakes in operations.
• Robots can benefit all types of businesses, from small to large.
• Enhance efficiency in tasks like data entry and customer service.

Ann Blakely, Managing Principal of Digital Solutions at Baker Tilly, stated:

• The partnership enhances digital capabilities.
• Clients will receive innovative tools to boost efficiency.
• The collaboration supports better decision-making.
• Alirrium’s RPA skills combined with Baker Tilly’s advisory services enable strong automation solutions for various organizations.

David Hickey, CEO of Alirrium said, “We are thrilled to join Baker Tilly and expand our RPA expertise to a broader audience.

Together, we’ll empower clients across all sectors to harness automation, transforming their operations and maintaining a competitive edge in today’s dynamic landscape.”

Also read: ASA joins Baker Tilly International: A huge milestone for the 1000-member Indian Accounting firm

What Is Robotic Process Automation?

• RPA uses robots (No, not the ones that walk and talk, but software robots) to do simple, repetitive tasks.
• These robots can perform jobs like filling out forms, answering basic questions, and moving data from one place to another.
• This helps companies work faster and lets employees focus on bigger, more important tasks.

RPA Vs AI?

• RPA automates repetitive tasks based on set rules, without intelligence or learning.
• AI involves cognitive abilities like learning, decision-making, and adapting, allowing it to handle more complex tasks.

About Baker Tilly 

Baker Tilly is a Top 10 Advisory, Tax, and Assurance firm globally.

It is a global network of independent accounting and business advisory firms in 141 territories.

Employees: 43,000

Worldwide revenue: $5.2 billion for the year ending December 31, 2023.

Also read: Private Equity money is pouring into US CPA Firms. Surge in offshoring to India?

Baker Tilly’s major PE deal

In February 2024, Baker Tilly secured a major investment from private equity giants:

• Hellman & Friedman
• Valeas Capital Partners.

The deal is valued at over $1 billion, with Hellman & Friedman leading the charge, putting in more than $900 million for a controlling stake.

Baker Tilly is split into two entities:

• Baker Tilly Advisory Group (Jeff Ferro, CEO): This group focus on advisory, tax, and other services.
• Baker Tilly US LLP (Jere Shawver, CEO): This is a licensed CPA firm the audit and assurance arm of Baker Tilly in the United States.

Both operate as independent members of Baker Tilly International.

Acquisition of companies

• Baker Tilly has completed 17 acquisitions, according to Tracxn.
• Notable acquisitions include True Partners Consulting, ACG, and COGEST.
• They also acquired Seiler and Alirrium after their private equity investment.