Marsh, the world’s leading insurance broker and risk adviser, today launches a specialist Construction Consulting Practice to provide dispute resolution, risk advisory, and audit services to the construction and engineering industries across Europe, the Middle East and Africa (EMEA). The new Practice, which is part of Marsh’s EMEA Forensic Accounting and Claims Service (FACS) Practice, is led by Todd Vandenhaak, who has relocated from Marsh’s Seattle office to London to lead the team.

Marsh’s Construction Consulting Practice provides expertise in project planning, pricing and quantifying actual damages, and contract/project management. The Practice, which comprises a network of engineers, accountants, cost and schedule experts and project managers, specialises in providing mediation, arbitration, and litigation support to companies using various dispute resolution forums.

The Practice will support clients involved with planning or managing construction projects with risk management consultancy and auditing services throughout various stages of the construction project lifecycle, including:

• Reviewing an organisation’s governance over project goals and controls used to identify risks associated with planning and execution;
• Working with clients to develop a plan to mitigate those risks and ensure the proper tools are in place for achieving a successful project outcome;
• Conducting audits at various points in the construction cycle to assure management that project operations are being conducted in accordance with best practices.

Commenting on the launch, Mr Vandenhaak, said: “The risks associated with the way in which construction and engineering projects are approached, executed and managed have changed dramatically as a result of the recession. Owners are looking at ways to manage their costs more aggressively, while contractors are actively seeking alternative options to protect or improve their profit margins. As cash flow tightens and available funding diminishes, controls to ensure that projects are completed on time and on budget are imperative.

"The Construction Consulting Practice brings together creative and knowledgeable professionals with unrivalled expertise in dispute resolution and risk management who can help owners, contractors, and relevant stakeholders manage these risks and resolve disputes with efficacy, should they arise.”

Andy King, Leader of the FACS Practice in EMEA, added: “This is an important new development for the FACS Practice and enables us to provide the specialist skills that our clients engaged in construction activities need. Today’s launch is testament to Marsh’s ability to provide outstanding professional added-value services that ensure our clients’ interests are protected and that they are treated fairly.”