Accountants put Growth Under the Microscope

One of the leading regional accountancy businesses is branching out in a new direction with the launch of a dedicated forensics team.

Clive Owen & Co LLP has brought in a recognised industry expert to establish the new division which will specialise in commercial disputes, transaction disputes, investigations, contract compliance and pro-active fraud services.

Michael Grayson was recruited by the Darlington-based chartered accountants and business advisors practice to establish and build the forensic accountancy arm.

Mr Grayson brings a wealth of experience to the role having worked on many in-depth investigations during his time at blue-chip accountancy firm PricewaterhouseCoopers.

His work at PwC took him around the world as part of teams investigating highly complex fraud cases ranging from suspected over-billing by a firm of bodyguards in a war-torn area of the Middle East to allegations of financial mismanagement at a prestigious stud farm in the UK.

Clive Owen, senior partner at Clive Owen & Co LLP, said: "Michael has an impressive CV in the field of forensic accountancy and will bring an exciting new dimension to our business. This is an area of accountancy that really gets under the skin of a situation and Michael has been involved in cases that have recouped businesses and organisations hundreds of thousands of pounds.

"Businesses in the North East that have needed this service in the past were only able to get it from the largest accountancy practices which bring with it the largest price tag. We have identified a market for this specialist service at a more affordable cost and we anticipate it will prove popular, particularly in the current economic climate."

Mr Grayson's team will be working on a range of projects including offering expert witness testimony in commercial disputes; evaluation services during the purchase or sale of a business and investigative work in all aspects of financial and non-financial situations. In addition, they will work with companies on a pro-active basis to help protect them against the risk of fraud.

Mr Grayson said: "Of all the areas of accountancy, I find that this is the most interesting - every day is different and every project is different. The results you can achieve for clients are staggering. There is a massive value add for clients utilising our service in times of dispute.

"Clive Owen & Co LLP has identified a niche that no other local regional accountancy practice currently provides, an accountant led forensic service based within the North East. Our aim is to give the quality and service you would expect from a national firm and yet provide it with the tailored approach and value for money that you would expect from a regional firm."

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