FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
August 11, 2025
WBL CPAs + Advisors Welcomes Barry Coates, CPA as First Chief Operating Officer
Atlanta, GA — WBL CPAs + Advisors is proud to announce the appointment of Barry Coates, CPA, as the firm's first Chief Operating Officer. This strategic addition to the leadership team marks a significant milestone in WBL's continued growth and commitment to operational excellence—while reinforcing its dedication to remaining an independent firm in a rapidly consolidating industry.
"Bringing Barry on board is a pivotal moment for WBL. His depth of experience and strategic insight align perfectly with our vision for the future. We have built a firm that values independence, investing in its people, and delivering exceptional service—and Barry will help us scale that vision while staying true to who we are," said Managing Partner, Bruce Benator.
As Chief Operating Officer, Coates will oversee firm operations, drive strategic initiatives, and support WBL's mission to empower clients through exceptional advisory and accounting services. His leadership will be key in strengthening WBL's position as a forward-thinking, client-focused firm that values independence and long-term relationships.
"I couldn't be more excited to be joining WBL CPAs + Advisors," said Barry Coates. "It is a place where I can do interesting work with great people. The partners at WBL have built an incredible firm with a wonderful workplace culture, and I am looking forward to helping us navigate the ever-changing landscape in the world of public accounting as we continue to grow and expand our services."
Coates brings over 25 years of experience in management consulting, with a specialized focus on the office of the CFO. His career spans leadership roles in mergers and acquisitions, sales, operations, and scaling growth-oriented organizations. Most recently, he served as Chief Financial Officer at Hancock Askew, a Savannah, Georgia based accounting firm. His previous experience also includes CFO roles at a nonprofit organization and a technology consulting company, where he led transformative financial strategies.
Barry holds an undergraduate degree in accounting from North Carolina State University and a Master of Accounting from the University of Georgia. He is a Certified Public Accountant and holds a green belt in Lean Six Sigma, underscoring his commitment to process improvement and operational efficiency.
WBL's commitment to its people and culture of excellence is reflected in its impressive list of accolades through the years. The firm was named the 2023 #1 "Best Firm to Work For" in the U.S. among accounting firms by Accounting Today and has been included on this list for 13 consecutive years, a recognition based heavily on employee feedback and workplace culture. The firm also was named #2 "Best Place to Work For" in Georgia by Georgia Trend magazine. This honor highlights WBL's dedication to providing meaningful career growth, work-life harmony, and a supportive environment for its team.
"We're building something special at WBL—not just a firm, but a place where talented professionals can thrive and make a lasting impact. Barry's arrival strengthens our leadership and positions us for continued success," said Benator.
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Founded in 1982, WBL CPAs + Advisors offers audit, accounting, advisory, transaction, family office and tax services for domestic and international middle-market companies, nonprofit organizations, and high net-worth individuals. The firm is a member of Russell Bedford International (RBI), a global network of independent professional services firms. WBL is Accounting Today's 2023 #1 "Best Firm to Work For" of US small firms and is recognized as one of Inside Public Accounting's Top 400 Firms. For more information, please call 770.512.0500 or visit wblcpa.com