News & Press

Anchin is proud to welcome back Robert Smith, who returns to the firm as the leader of the Emerging Companies Group. With a deep appreciation for Anchin’s workplace culture, mentorship philosophy, and commitment to client success, Robert is eager to contribute once again to the firm’s mission.

A Culture That Feels Like Home

Reflecting on his decision to return, Robert emphasizes the impact that Anchin had on the early years of his career. “The first three years of a career are incredibly influential,” he shares. “I started at Anchin, and it had a tremendous effect on me—I felt like I grew up here.”

Robert was drawn back to Anchin by its culture—one that fosters intelligent professionals who care deeply about their colleagues and clients. He is excited to rejoin former colleagues and meet new ones while contributing to the firm’s ongoing evolution. “Anchin feels like home, and I’m happy to be back, working alongside talented professionals to make our clients’ businesses healthier and stronger.”

Mentorship and Team Development

Mentorship played a pivotal role in Robert’s career growth, and he is committed to passing that forward. “When I first started at Anchin, partners invested time and attention in me because they saw my potential,” he explains. Now, as a leader, he believes in providing his team with similar opportunities to learn and grow.

Robert’s approach to mentorship is intentional, fostering a hybrid learning environment where team members engage in consistent learning, shadow meetings, and gain hands-on experience. “Investing in people is key to their long-term success. I lead a team of high performers with great potential, and I want to help them develop into top-notch leaders.”

Driving Growth in the Emerging Companies Group

As the leader of Anchin’s Emerging Companies Group, Robert is focused on delivering the best possible client experience. “Entrepreneurs in growth-stage companies operate in a fast-paced environment, wearing many hats. We share that same mindset when serving our clients,” he says.

His team provides comprehensive support, from traditional tax compliance to tax strategies for M&A, fundraising, Qualified Small Business Stock, and R&D tax credits, helping businesses navigate every stage of their financial journey. “We’re more than tax advisors—we’re an incubator for our clients, helping them scale into successful, enduring companies. Our goal is to build long-term partnerships that evolve as our clients grow.”

Words of Wisdom for the Next Generation

Drawing from his career experiences, Robert offers valuable advice for Anchin’s staff. “The best thing about working in tax is that everything is constantly changing. Staying ahead of these changes helps level the playing field. Each new tax law is a chance to make a name for yourself as a subject matter expert.”

He encourages professionals to take initiative: “See it, understand it, and teach it. This makes you a specialist and allows you to stand out. Get involved in firm-wide initiatives and find areas where your personal interests align with your work. Become the go-to resource in your area of expertise.”

With his return, Robert brings a wealth of knowledge, leadership, and enthusiasm, reinforcing Anchin’s commitment to excellence, mentorship, and client success. Welcome back, Robert!

Robert A. Smith, CPA, is a Tax Partner and Leader of Anchin’s Emerging Companies Group. He specializes in working with domestic and international clients in the technology, consumer products, life sciences, and public relations sectors. An entrepreneur himself, Robert previously co-owned a small business and founded the international tax practice at a Top 200 CPA firm, giving him unique insights into the challenges faced by emerging company CEOs and businesses backed by venture capital or private equity.