Founder & CEO
Community Leader and Business Advisor
Significant Impacts in Wilmington, NC
Terry Smith began his career in business leadership, serving as Vice President of Information Technology and later Vice President of Distribution with Rag Shop, where he gained valuable experience in operations, systems, and management. In 1997, he founded Terry M. Smith Certified Public Accountant, PLLC, where he spent over 16 years providing comprehensive tax and accounting services to individuals and businesses. His firm built a strong reputation for delivering trusted financial guidance tailored to client needs. In 2014, Terry joined Thompson, Price, Scott, Adams & Co. PA, a regional and multi-state CPA firm, as a Tax and Business Financial Consultant, specializing in business consulting and governmental auditing. Building on this foundation, he launched Smith Group Advisors, LLC in 2015, where he currently serves as Managing Member. Through this role, Terry provides brokerage services for small businesses, serves as an intermediary in mergers and acquisitions ranging from $5–50 million, and offers franchise development consulting. Smith Group Advisors operates as an independent franchise of Transworld Business Advisors while he continues to expand resources and strengthening support for entrepreneurs across the region.
Fun Fact About Terry:
Terry is a fluid triathelet who completed in the 2012 Ironman World Championship in Kona, Hawaii
Terry Smith
Professional Credentials:
Certified Public Accountant (CPA):
Smith holds a CPA license, underscoring his expertise in accounting and financial services.
Business Broker:
As a licensed business broker, Smith assists clients in navigating the complexities of buying and selling businesses, offering professional guidance throughout the process.
Community Involvement
“It's about giving back to your community, making sure everyone has the resources they need to be successful in life.” — Terry Smith
Wilmington Parks & Recreation Advisory Board (Chair):
Smith has been instrumental in community development, working with fellow board members to review the park, recreation and open Space comprehensive plan, Urban forestry master plan, Greenfield park master plan, and notably leading the groundbreaking ceremony for Phase II of Olsen Park in July 2025. This project includes the addition of a fenced multi-purpose field, four dedicated pickleball courts, a ¾-mile loop trail, and additional parking, enhancing recreational opportunities for the Wilmington community.
Rotary Club of Wilmington:
Some of the committees Smith have been involved in include:
Chair of Rotary Wheel garden (overseeing it's maintenance)
Member of the literacy Committee
Particularly in “Together we read” program at D.C. Virgo Aiding kindergartners in developing their reading skills.
member of veterans day committee
Driving rotary veterans at our local veteran day parade.
Former president of the rotary club and downtown Wilmington foundations.
Church Involvement:
Basilian shrine of St. Mary
Relatively involved in his church as a catechist in religious education and members of the finance council for 30 years.
Wait.....There's more!
Terry Smith is actively engaged in the Wilmington community, serving on the board of the UNCW Seahawks Club and as a member of the Athletic Director’s Champion Circle as well as the Women’s Basketball Fast Trackers Club at the University of North Carolina Wilmington.
He also serves New Hanover County on the Juvenile Crime Prevention Council, where he helps assess, prioritize, and identify strategies to support at-risk youth and individuals who have been adjudicated, with a focus on prevention, accountability, and long-term community impact.
Provided Services:
FAQS
What accounting services do you offer?
We offer a comprehensive range of accounting services tailored to meet the unique needs of businesses. Our services include bookkeeping, financial reporting, tax optimization and compliance, payroll management, budgeting and forecasting, audit preparation, and more. Whether you're a small startup or a large corporation, our team of experts can provide the financial support you need to thrive.
How do your fees work, and are they affordable?
Our fee structure is designed to be transparent and competitive. We understand that cost is a concern for many businesses. The exact fees can vary depending on the scope and complexity of the services you require. We offer customized pricing packages to ensure you only pay for the services you need. Our goal is to provide high-quality financial services that are not only effective but also affordable. We're happy to discuss your specific requirements and provide a clear, upfront estimate.
How can I be sure my financial data is secure with your company?
We take data security seriously. Your financial data is treated with the utmost care and protected using industry-standard security measures. Our systems are regularly updated and audited to ensure they meet the highest security standards. Additionally, our team undergoes rigorous training to maintain the confidentiality and integrity of your data. You can trust that your financial information is safe when you partner with us. If you have specific security concerns or questions, please don't hesitate to reach out, and we'll be happy to address them.