He most recently led all operations as managing partner of the Grant Thornton Central Region, which includes offices in Colorado, Kansas, Oklahoma and Texas. "We have already been working on transition issues and other matters of high priority," said Stephen Chipman, Grant Thornton CEO-elect, in a statement.

"I believe that our unique operating model will enable our market share to continue to grow," Grabowsky said in a statement.

Prior to joining Grant Thornton in 2002, Grabowsky held various positions at Arthur Andersen, including head of the business process outsourcing practice for North America; and managing partner for the Great Lakes Region.

He holds a BS in accounting from Pennsylvania State University, where he serves on the Board of Visitors to the Smeal Business School. He is a CPA in Texas and Ohio and is active in various organizations, including the Dallas Regional Chamber of Commerce.