The Society for Marketing Professional Services New York Chapter (SMPS-NY), the premier organization for marketing professionals in the architecture, engineering, and construction (AEC) industry, is thrilled to announce a new partnership with notable provider of advisory, tax and accounting services Grassi Advisors & Accountants for the 2022-23 chapter year.

As one of the leading advisory and accounting firms in the nation, Grassi will advise the chapter on a variety of non-profit financial best practices, sustainable fundraising initiatives, and the reinvestment of profits into both the chapter and its members. Jaime Rapps, CPA, a Partner at Grassi with nearly 15 years of experience in tax, audit and advisory services, will sit as the only non-member participant of an SMPS-NY committee, serving on the chapter’s Finance Committee and working closely with the Chapter’s Board of Directors and Executive Committee.

“This collaborative effort introduces an independent voice into our chapter’s decision-making process, ensuring that the chapter, as a non-profit entity, honors its responsibility to publicly disclose and proactively plan how finances are managed for members,” said Brian C. Ferry, Immediate Past President of SMPS-NY, who spearheaded the effort. “We look forward to a long and mutually beneficial relationship with Grassi.”

The first partnership of its kind among the broader North American organization that is SMPS, the agreement serves to provide members with unique insights and professional development educational opportunities in business finance, while simultaneously redefining the role the chapter plays for the broader AEC industry. This effort is an important part of modernizing and updating that chapter’s corporate governance practices, ultimately creating an environment even more conducive to networking and professional development.

“Moving forward, both SMPS-NY and Grassi will benefit from the others' industry knowledge, insights and contacts, pioneering a model for consistent and direct involvement from a third-party advisory firm for a non-profit organization,” said Nathan Reyna, current president of SMPS-NY. “In addition to increasing value for members, the chapter’s goal is to inspire others to embrace similar transparency practices across the nation. Overall, the finalization of this partnership represents the next step in our continued evolution.”

With over 240 members throughout New York City and the surrounding metropolitan region, SMPS-NY supports the AEC industry's marketing, business development, and creative service professionals throughout the state. The organization provides professional development and lead generation opportunities, as well as networking, supplementary education, and industry-leading research to provide members and firms with a competitive advantage. More information is available at smpsny.org.

The Society for Marketing Professional Services, New York Chapter (SMPS-NY) is a dynamic, welcoming community dedicated to creating business opportunities in the architecture, engineering, and construction industries. Serving the Greater New York City Metropolitan area, SMPS-NY supports the professional development of over 240 members and hosts dozens of events each year, from networking mixers and educational workshops to premier panel events with key industry leaders. In addition, our established affiliate committees in Long Island, New Jersey, and Westchester/Hudson Valley provide connection opportunities and events within these regions.