FTI Consulting launches Construction Solutions practice in Germany
FTI Consulting has launched a Construction Solutions practice in Germany. Thomas Hofbauer, a 20-year career veteran, has been brought on board to set up and expand the new offering.
The Construction Solutions practice at FTI Consulting provides commercial management, risk-based advisory, dispute resolution and strategic communications services to organisations in the construction and engineering industries. The firm’s team consists of experts from a mix of disciplines, including engineers, architects, accountants, quantity surveyors, planning and scheduling specialists, cost engineers, project managers and strategic communications professionals, enabling the practice to provide an end-to-end offering across business, regulatory, technical, and legal matters.
The entry into Germany, Austria and Switzerland, known as the ‘DACH' market, sees the management consulting firm expand its construction industry footprint in what Patrick McGeehin, Global Leader of FTI’s Construction Solutions practice, describes as “a region of strategic and commercial importance”. DACH is home to many of the largest and most complex construction projects in Europe, with several companies headquartered in the region playing a central role on the global stage.
To lead the new venture, FTI Consulting has hired Thomas Hofbauer, who was previously a Senior Vice President at HKA, an international construction, manufacturing & technology consultancy. He brings a wide range of experience in strategic procurement, contract management and claims management for buildings, infrastructure, industrial, IT, power and rolling stock projects across Europe. Hofbauer has significant experience delivering reviews on assessing delay, disruption, damages and cost for large-scale projects. He has given evidence in arbitral proceedings at the International Chamber of Commerce in Paris, the Vienna International Arbitral Centre and the Swiss Chambers’ Arbitration Institution in Zurich, and he has acted as an expert for disputes in numerous jurisdictions.
Commenting on his new role, Munich-based Hofbauer said, “I have long been aware of FTI’s prominence and reputation within the arbitration and disputes community. I am looking forward to helping the firm as we work to enhance the practice across the region and deliver solutions to our clients.”
Alastair Farr, a Managing Director in FTI Consulting’s EMEA Construction Solutions practice, said, “We are delighted to welcome Thomas to FTI Consulting. His long-standing experience with the regional client base and deep industry knowledge will give us the best possible opportunity for success in the region and further enhance our reputation for disputes resolution in key global markets.” Farr joined the consulting firm himself in the summer of 2015 – previously he was a Managing Director at Driver Trett in their Asia-Pacific practice.
Meanwhile in France, FTI Consulting last year bolstered its French forensics practice with five high profile professionals from rival Kroll.