Maxwell Locke & Ritter is proud to announce the promotion of Punja Patel, Dan Feeley, and Laura Willard to partners of the firm, as well as the advancement of Sarah Holcombe to Chief People Officer, effective January 1, 2025.
“We are thrilled to welcome Dan, Punja, and Laura to the partnership group,” said Kyle Parks, Leading Partner. “Each of them embodies the values and commitment to excellence that define ML&R. Their dedication has already made a significant impact, and I’m confident they will play a vital role in shaping the future of our firm.”
In addition, Sarah Holcombe will take on the role of Chief People Officer. “Sarah’s leadership and passion for fostering a supportive, people-first culture have been instrumental to our success,” Kyle added. “Her vision and dedication will help ensure ML&R continues to be a place where our people thrive.”
Punja Patel, CPA – Audit Partner
Punja earned her Master of Professional Accounting from Southern Methodist University in Dallas, TX. She has over 18 years of experience providing audit and assurance services to a large network of clients. During her 12 year tenure at ML&R, she has provided valuable insights and tailored solutions to clients in the technology, consumer & industrial products, business & professional services, nonprofit, and life sciences industries.
“I enjoy learning about the unique businesses of my clients and helping them achieve their goals. It’s incredibly rewarding to be part of their journey and to witness their success. In my new role as Partner, I look forward to continuing to provide exceptional client service and high-quality work while fostering a positive, joyful, and supportive environment for everyone I interact with.”
“When I’m not working, I appreciate spending quality time with my family and pursuing personal growth. Whether it’s exploring new experiences, learning something new, or simply unwinding with a good TV show, these moments bring me joy and fulfillment.”
Connect with Punja on LinkedIn.
Dan Feeley, CPA – Transaction Advisory Partner
Dan earned his Master of Science in Accounting from Binghamton University in Binghamton, NY. He has 11 years of professional experience, including six years as a key member of the transaction advisory team at ML&R. Dan has worked on a wide range of platform acquisitions, strategic add-ons, and multi-national sell-side transactions. During his tenure at the firm, he has assisted in completing over 75 deals in the SaaS & technology-enabled services industries.
“I enjoy building strong relationships—not only with our longstanding clients, but also with the management teams of target companies,” Dan shared. “The diligence process can be complex and overwhelming. Our goal is to make it as seamless and efficient as possible by maintaining clear communication and a supportive approach.”
“As Partner, I look forward to building upon the success we’ve already achieved as a team. I’ll know I’ve been successful in my role if the people on our team have the same opportunities to advance their careers that I’ve been given.”
Laura Willard, CPA – Tax Partner
Laura began her career at Maxwell Locke & Ritter in 2007, shortly after earning her Master of Professional Accounting from The University of Texas at Austin. With 19 years of experience, including 17 at ML&R, Laura has cultivated a passion for providing tax advisory services to high-net-worth individuals, estates and trusts, nonprofit clients, and closely held businesses.
“One of my favorite areas to work in is our Family Office group,” Laura shared. “These clients bring rich stories, diverse projects, and meaningful connections with families. I love helping them navigate their financial lives so they can focus on pursuing their passions.”
“I am proud to have joined the partner group at ML&R while working on a part-time schedule. ML&R is truly a place where you can design your own path to success without compromising on what matters most in life. As a mother of five, my most important, fulfilling, and challenging role is raising my children. I’m grateful to be part of a firm that supports both my professional and personal goals.”
Connect with Laura on LinkedIn.
Sarah Holcombe, SHRM-SCP – Chief People Officer
Sarah earned her Master of Education in Sport Management from Old Dominion University in Norfolk, VA. She joined Maxwell Locke & Ritter in 2019 to lead our Talent & Culture team, which focuses on talent acquisition, employee engagement, learning & development, and human resources. Sarah appreciates being part of a firm that prioritizes its people. Reflecting on her role, Sarah shared, “I have the unique opportunity to enhance people’s lives while advancing the firm’s business goals. It’s rewarding to make a meaningful impact on both our employees and the organization as a whole.”
“Our partners are the real difference maker. From the day I started at the firm, I’ve felt empowered, supported, and valued. They motivate me to give my all back to the organization and to pass that encouragement and support on to others.”
Connect with Sarah on LinkedIn.
Please join us in extending the warmest congratulations to Punja, Dan, Laura, and Sarah as they embark on this exciting new chapter!