M&A Success Story

In an exemplary display of strategic and cultural alignment, Westwood's acquisition of CSRS stands as a testament to successful mergers and acquisitions. Completed in June 2025, this acquisition shows how careful collaboration and shared values can pave the way for growth and new opportunities. 

Pre-Acquisition 

A Conversation Worth Revisiting 

CSRS leadership first met with Westwood leadership in November 2022. At that time, CSRS was focused on internal improvements and wasn’t ready to pursue an acquisition. However, something about the Westwood approach resonated with CSRS. Instead of a hard sell or “now or never” offer, Westwood chose a thoughtful pace. Twelve months later, the Westwood M&A team reached out again, and this time CSRS was ready to explore the idea further. Westwood’s willingness to meet CSRS where they were, without pressure, made all the difference. 

“We weren’t looking to flip the company. We wanted a partner that was good for our clients, good for our principals, and good for our employees.” — Travis Woodard, CSRS 

What started as an exploratory conversation led to a thoughtful, deliberate acquisition process, grounded in mutual respect, cultural alignment, and a focus on long-term opportunities for the company’s people and clients alike. 

Building Trust Through Authenticity 

The CSRS team repeatedly observed how genuine and consistent Westwood’s engagement was, from initial conversations to a successful closing. 

The due diligence phase, the most painful part of any transaction, was noted by CSRS as being thorough, pragmatic, and surprisingly smooth. The Westwood team demonstrated professionalism, care, and competence, which reinforced what CSRS had been told about the firm’s culture from the beginning. 

“Any time decisions had to be made, the Westwood team approached negotiations in a way that was consistent with who they said they were from the very beginning.” — Tim Barfield, CSRS 

Post-Acquisition 

Creating New Opportunities and Unlocking Growth 

Six months following the June 2025 close, the acquisition's positive impact was already measurable. CSRS employees have access to a broader set of markets, resources, national presence, and expertise than ever before. Enthusiastic collaboration and cross-selling across the organization have led to incredible performance.  

“Being an employee-owned firm with a limited geographical footprint, we had challenges on how fast and how much we could grow. Now the ceiling is much higher.” — Tim Barfield, CSRS 

Enhancing Client Relationships 

Maintaining client confidence through the acquisition was a priority, with communication emphasizing continuity and enhanced capabilities. This approach prevented client changes and reinforced trust.  

“We told our clients, ‘Nothing changes for you, except we now have a bigger toolbox to serve you.’” — Travis Woodard, CSRS 

Early feedback confirmed this message was well received. The proof is no loss of high-priority clients, and in locations including Dallas and Fort Worth, much stronger collaboration and greatly increased project opportunities. Overall, more relationships and expertise have enhanced how CSRS can serve long-term clients, leveraging broader local connections and Westwood's bench strength. 

Looking to the Future 

As CSRS and Westwood continue their journey together, the focus remains on leveraging their combined strengths to drive consistent growth and create exciting opportunities for the team.  

“Being in a national platform gives our team opportunities they simply couldn’t have in a small, regionally concentrated firm.” — Tim Barfield, CSRS 

As both companies look to the future, now as one, they remain committed to maintaining the values that brought them together, ensuring continued success and innovation in the industry. 

Learn more about our M&A team and their success stories.