Specialist business advisory firm FRP has announced the launch of a new office in Belfast as it appoints partner Alison Hollywood to its forensic services team.
Alison brings more than 24 years’ forensic accounting experience, specialising in complex business interruption claims and advising on quantum in a dispute situation. She advises a broad range of clients, including law firms, corporates, government bodies, insurance firms and brokers, on matters such as commercial disputes, breach of contract, professional negligence and insurance claims. She has also given evidence in proceedings in the UK, and assisted clients at mediation.
She joins from PwC, where she was a director and responsible for the disputes practice in Northern Ireland and Scotland, along with leading the Insurance Claims offering. In her new role at FRP Alison will lead the firm’s forensic services work in the same jurisdictions.
Alison joins FRP alongside new senior team members and a graduate trainee, and is actively recruiting to support future expansion in Belfast. The team will be based in a new state-of-the-art office at Urban HQ on Upper Queen Street.
Commenting on her appointment, Alison said: “In the current economic climate, we’re seeing an increased demand for forensic services, particularly in disputes and investigations. FRP has built a strong reputation for advising on complex and high-profile cases, and the firm’s emphasis on team work and collaboration, combined with the ability to shape our local team and client base, were particularly attractive.
“Looking ahead, my focus will be on establishing FRP as a go-to firm for forensic services in Northern Ireland. Having lived and worked in Northern Ireland for my entire career, the prospect of re-engaging with the local market and supporting clients both here in Northern Ireland and across Scotland makes this an incredibly exciting opportunity. Working alongside my new colleagues we’ll deliver effective, independent advice and constructive solutions for our clients, while also contributing to FRP’s continued growth and success.”
Alison’s appointment and the launch of a new office in Belfast represents the latest investment from FRP as it continues to support clients nationally as an advisory firm. The firm’s 50 plus strong forensic services team has expanded considerably in recent years to service the dispute and investigation market. It has also been ranked in the international legal directory Chambers and Partners Litigation Support Guide for the past six years.
Geoff Rowley, CEO of FRP, added: “We’re very pleased to welcome Alison to the FRP team and to announce our expansion into Belfast. Alison’s wealth of experience and her deep roots in the local business community make her the ideal person to lead our new office. This strategic move allows us to better serve our clients in Northern Ireland while also strengthening our overall forensic services offering across the UK.”
The new Belfast office will offer FRP’s full range of forensic services, with a particular emphasis on dispute resolution and investigative work. This expansion is part of FRP’s ongoing strategy to enhance its coverage and deepen its expertise in key service areas.