SOUTHFIELD, Mich. — Plante Moran has elected Jason Drake as the firm’s next managing partner. In his new role, which becomes effective July 1, 2024, Drake will lead one of the nation’s largest audit, tax, consulting and wealth management firms. He succeeds Jim Proppe, who held the position for the last seven years.
“I’m honored that the firm has entrusted me with this important role,” said Drake. “As Plante Moran celebrates 100 years in business, it’s clear to me that we’ve achieved this milestone by staying true to our values, principles and ‘We Care’ culture. I’m where I am today because of the investments people made in me, and that’s why, throughout my career, I’ve done my best to invest in others. Going forward, that won’t change. My plan for the future is to continue to be a good steward of the firm –– because that’s how we’ll thrive for another 100+ years.”
Since an internship in 1999, Drake has spent his entire professional career at Plante Moran. In his nearly 25 years at the firm, he’s focused on audit, consulting and building and expanding Plante Moran’s international offices and practice, which he led for six years. In 2021 he joined the firm’s management team as group managing partner of offices for Chicagoland, Ohio and the firm’s international locations. In his new role, Drake will focus on firm growth and investments in people and technology, while also maintaining Plante Moran’s rich culture and dedication to client service.
Drake became a rising star early in his academic career, graduating as salutatorian from Pontiac Northern High School in 1996. His academic achievements, coupled with his work as a caddie at Pine Lake Country Club, earned Drake an Evans Scholarship granted to students with excellent academics, demonstrated financial need, outstanding character and a strong caddie record.
With the help of the full tuition and housing scholarship, Drake graduated from Michigan State University in 2000 with honors, earning a bachelor’s degree in accounting.
“There are a variety of reasons why the partnership selected Jason as managing partner—from his vision for the future, experience in multiple service lines and international experience, to his deep relationships and connections with firms and colleagues around the world,” said Proppe. “Jason is an inspiring colleague, an outstanding mentor and we know he’ll continue to do great things for the firm.”
During Proppe’s term as managing partner, he’s led the firm’s growth by expanding its geographic footprint, increasing capabilities and service offerings and helping the firm compete in a digital world. He also led a 2018 merger with Colorado’s EKS&H, which propelled Plante Moran’s expansion of staff and clients in the Rocky Mountain region and helped the firm reach the billion-dollar revenue mark earlier this year.
Drake is only the eighth managing partner in the firm’s 100-year history.
