A firm believer that complacency breeds failure, Ying is driven by innate curiosity and life-long learning with a growth mindset. She is passionate about leading with purpose, inclusion, and authenticity. With over 15 years of diverse experience in the AEC industry, Ying has served in various capacities including strategic planning, design, and implementation; marketing and business development; CRM operations and commercial pipeline; client team management and capture win plans; as well as proposal development and oversight. Her unique strengths lie within her ability to integrate tactical thinking and strategic insights into business planning and capture qualitative and quantitative components to convey a cohesive message.
Jeff Adams, CPA, CM&AA
With over a decade of experience in the AEC industry, Jeff Adams is a seasoned M&A advisor who helps firms achieve their strategic growth objectives. As Director of SN’s Merger and Acquisitions practice area and Certified M&A Advisor, he leads the M&A team, partnering with architecture, engineering, and construction firms on both the buyer and seller sides to strategically position them for greater future success. Jeff has successfully advised numerous M&A transactions, ensuring smooth and successful transitions for his clients. He also hosts the popular AEC Unscripted: M&A Edition podcast, where he shares insights and best practices with AEC leaders, including executives from ENR Top 500 firms.
During his career, Jeff has gained extensive experience overseeing strategy and operations related to accounting, financial planning, and analysis. Before joining SN, he held an executive leadership role at an engineering firm, where he played a pivotal part in leading his firm through a successful acquisition process.
Education
- Bachelor of Business Administration (BBA), Accounting from Georgia Southern University
- Associate of Science, Business Administration and Management, General from Abraham Baldwin Agricultural College
Professional and Community Highlights
- Mosaic Georgia, Board Member
- Georgia Southern University, Advisory Board Member – Construction Management
Listen to the Latest Episode of AEC Unscripted: M&A Edition
Todd Adams
Kate Allen, PE, MBA
Kate’s 25 years of experience in the Architecture and Engineering industry includes leadership roles as a Consultant, Principal-in-Charge, and National Engineering Director. Her primary focus is on helping clients with transition strategies including ownership transition and mergers and acquisitions. Kate applies a “lead with people” approach as she partners with firms to successfully anticipate and prepare for their future.
Education
- B.A. in Psychology from University of Colorado Denver
- B.S. in Mechanical Engineering from University of Colorado Denver
- MBA, General Business and Finance from University of Denver – Daniels College of Business
Professional and Community Highlights
- ACEC-CO, Vertical Design Committee member and sustaining member
- A3LC Liaison Committee member
Tricia Bailey
Leveraging her breadth of accounting and bookkeeping experience, Tricia helps clients to be more successful in the areas of finance and accounting. Dedicated to delivering exceptional client service and meeting client needs, Tricia focuses on accounts payable, invoicing, and receipts entry.
Amy Baird
As an Ajera Outsourced Accounting Services Accountant, Amy works with project-based firms across the country; providing financial expertise and AE industry insight. Having spent time in architecture firms herself, Amy brings a unique understanding of the inner workings of an AE firm to her role.
Julie Baker
As the Sr. Customer Success Manager, Julie leverages her deep understanding of Deltek to help clients achieve their business objectives. She proactively identifies potential challenges and provides tailored solutions, driving the adoption and utilization of Deltek solutions. Julie is passionate about empowering clients to fully leverage their software investment and realize its full potential. She is a skilled communicator and problem-solver, committed to building lasting partnerships.
Nikki Bardin, CPA
Nikki has over 20 years of experience in public accounting. Her areas of expertise are federal and multi-state business, including corporate and partnership taxation, consolidated tax returns, and individual tax. Working with a wide range of clients, Nikki also performs tax research and tax compliance services.
