Andy Banker, representing the council, said in a prepared statement, "As tax professionals, we are accustomed to changes as tax law changes every year. In this case, the Advisory Council remains confident in the Liberty Tax system, its management team, board of directors and partners."

Banker's statement said the council is "excited about the talent and updating of plans to make us more competitive in the coming season".

Liberty named Ed Brunot as CEO on September 8, two days after firing Hewitt.   The company has two classes of common stock shares, with Hewitt holding the Class B shares and having the right to name a majority of the board. The board was negiotating with him to acquire those shares.

Once a growing company, Liberty has been hurt by filing fraud charges made against some franchisees over the last two years. That hampered the chain's ability to recruit new franchisees and discouraged existing franchises from opening more locations.