Accountancy heavyweight strengthens forensics proposition

BDO has bolstered its Midlands team with the appointment of an experienced forensic accounting specialist.

John Rouse has joined the accountancy and business advisory firm as a partner.

He will work with BDO’s Forensic Accounting and Valuation Services team to expand the company’s M&A Forensics practice and strengthen its Midlands Forensics proposition, as well as working collaboratively with other areas of the business.

Rouse brings over 20 years’ experience to the role having previously worked as director of forensic at KPMG.

Sat Plaha, partner and head of Regional Forensic Services at BDO, said: “We’re delighted to welcome someone of John’s calibre to our team locally and nationally. He will strengthen our position as a leader in forensic disputes and investigations, which will be spearheaded from 1 November by three partners in the Midlands – the only firm in the region with this level of senior, highly specialised capability.

“His in-depth knowledge of the regional and national Forensic and Forensic M&A markets will add great value to our offering. John possesses considerable experience in working with businesses of all shapes and sizes, from OMBs to publicly listed companies across a broad range of sectors, and this expertise will be vital in building our presence over the next 12 to 18 months.”

Rouse said: “I’m really excited to join BDO, after many years at my previous firm, where I started as a graduate in 1996. Having the opportunity to work alongside colleagues in both the Midlands and the national practice will allow me to put my experience to best use, and I’m really looking forward to working closely with the regional team to help support their individual ambitions and personal development.”

Kyla Bellingall, partner and head of the Midlands at BDO, added: “We are firmly committed in the region to investing in the very best talent and John’s arrival demonstrates our drive and ambition to bring onboard key individuals who will play a vital role in our growth journey as a business. Forensic disputes is a growing area and forms an important part of our proposition – a service offering that has real strength and depth across a broad range of specialisms both regionally and nationally.”