Azets expands forensic team

Azets has promoted David Houghton to national head of forensic and valuations, as the UK top 10 accountancy firm ramps up its specialist advisory services.

David joined as a partner in January and brings over 25 years of experience in forensic accounting, including expert witness work across multiple courts and tribunals. 

A chartered accountant with deep expertise in share valuations and loss of profits claims, he has also held roles in industry, investment banking and law.

David said: “I am honoured to have been asked to lead the team and have been tasked with further developing our service while driving new business for the firm. 

“These are exciting times for forensic accounting as companies, organisations and investors seek to make every penny count.

“With our experience of serving the legal, accounting and private equity industries we are changing the way litigation support and business valuation services are offered to professionals and clients, adding commercial skills and expertise to the standard accounting solutions. 

“Our extensive commercial experience takes the provision of forensic accounting services beyond standard numerical and accounting techniques to incorporate the most current market knowledge and holistic methodologies. 

“This enables us to provide the best possible, supportable outcomes for our clients.”

The Manchester-based team supports clients and legal advisers with valuation and forensic advice across contentious and non-contentious matters, offering flexible, capped-fee services.

David is a contributing author, ICAEW-accredited forensic accountant and part of its President’s Appointment Scheme for expert determination.

Peter Gallanagh, Azets’ UK chief executive officer, added: “The Azets UK forensics and valuations team provides market leading tailored advice and reports to lawyers, private equity and corporates across the country.

“It is very much a growth area for Azets and we were pleased to appoint such a knowledgeable and skilled seasoned operator as David to head this crucial division of our business consultancy offering. 

“His long experience in the field will serve us well.”

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