Grant Thornton names Rick Surett as new CFO
ILLINOIS, UNITED STATES — Grant Thornton, a provider of audit, assurance, tax, and advisory services, has named Rick Surett as its new chief financial officer, effective June 2.
The move comes as the firm expands its global footprint, having recently formed a multinational platform across the United States, Ireland, and the United Arab Emirates.
Surett brings nearly 30 years of financial leadership, including previous roles as CFO of Transportation Equipment Network and Ports America. He has also held corporate development roles at Avaya.
“Rick brings a wealth of experience and a fresh perspective that will help us continue driving value for our clients and our people — especially now, as we expand our multinational platform from America across Europe and into the Middle East,” said Jim Peko, CEO of Grant Thornton.
Surett succeeds Muhammad Bhayat, who is retiring after more than 20 years with the firm.
“Muhammad’s tenure at Grant Thornton has been a foundational part of this firm and he has made an immeasurable impact on our people and our business,” Peko added.
A strategic financial focus
Surett will oversee the firm’s financial strategy, working closely with leadership to strengthen operations and support continued growth.
“Joining Grant Thornton as CFO will mean partnering with our exceptional teams across the organization to strengthen our financial strategy and support the firm’s continued momentum,” said Surett.
He holds a bachelor’s degree in accounting from Siena College and an MBA in finance from the State University of New York at Albany.
Global reach and strategic growth of Grant Thornton
Grant Thornton operates in the U.S. through two primary entities: Grant Thornton LLP, which provides audit and assurance services, and Grant Thornton Advisors LLC, which delivers non-attest tax and advisory solutions.
The firm recently expanded its international platform by joining forces with Grant Thornton Ireland and Grant Thornton UAE, forming a cross-border service model that spans nearly 60 offices and includes a workforce of almost 13,000 professionals.
With $2.7 billion in revenue and a presence in over 150 markets via Grant Thornton International, the firm is positioned to deliver tech-enabled, client-focused solutions worldwide. The company ranked #34 in the OA500 2025, an objective index of the world’s top 500 outsourcing companies.
