It’s been 40 years since Geoffrey Martin founded the firm that took his name, and now the Leeds and London based restructuring practice is marking a new chapter in its history. From now on PKF Geoffrey Martin will be known simply as PKF GM, while launching a new website www.pkfgm.co.uk, and also expanding its support to regional businesses with the introduction of a new Fraud and Forensics offering to complement its restructuring practice.
It’s the latest evolution for the firm, which six years ago became part of PKF International, a global network of legally independent accounting firms across 150 countries. Over the last 40 years the firm has established a reputation for its empathy and expertise in helping management teams and financial stakeholders to navigate financial challenges.
New fraud and forensic offering
As part of its rebrand, PKF GM has strengthened its advisory offering with recruitment of a fraud and forensic team, led by Robert Brooker, a renowned fraud expert.
Stephen Goderski, Head of the London office at PKF GM said:
“I’m delighted to welcome Robert and his team. Their knowledge and expertise will be a real benefit to our clients. Many otherwise successful businesses fall into financial difficulty each year as a result of fraudulent activity. Due to the pandemic, we’re seeing a rapid rise in fraud which looks set to continue into 2021 as more businesses start to struggle and become more susceptible to fraudulent activity.”
“Our values of providing honest, straightforward advice to our clients, while striving to preserve their business, reputation and jobs, haven’t changed. With the launch of our Fraud and Forensics service, we now have the ability to help clients prevent and mitigate the impact of fraud too.”
James Sleight, Head of the Leeds office at PKF GM added:
“We’ve got a proud heritage as a firm, particularly in Yorkshire. But we have evolved in recent years, in terms of our leadership, our people and our client reach. We work with clients of all shapes and sizes, from family firms and charities to international businesses and everything in between. Our new identity reflects our ability to bring both a personal, local touch and the wealth of expertise our international network brings.”
“As an independent firm that’s also part of the PKF International network, we have the local, national and global reach to help our clients navigate increasingly challenging times.”
Perfect storm for businesses
The next chapter for PKF GM comes at a time when they’re working to help businesses right across the region to deal with the uncertainty of both the pandemic and Brexit.
James Sleight continues:
“It’s undoubtedly very tough out there for many businesses around the country. However, there is a wide range of options and support available to businesses. What we say is this: if you’re experiencing or anticipating cash flow pressure or other financial challenges, don’t leave it too late to explore and understand your options. Having a restructuring professional guide you through the process can be invaluable in getting the best outcome and will also help you understand and mitigate your risk as a director.”
“Covid continues to create difficulties and the Brexit transition will too, but by planning for a variety of scenarios, preparing realistic trading forecasts and having up-front conversations with suppliers, landlords and lenders, firms across the country will be better placed to navigate the challenging months ahead.”
PKF GM has offices in Leeds, London and Gerrards Cross.