Independent Monitor and Consultant

At the point where the authorities have deemed it necessary to impose a corporate compliance monitor (or the local equivalent), finding a credible expert to fill that independent role is the first step to avoiding further reputational damage and spending resource on half measures that may only result in extended monitorship periods.

We have qualified for and delivered several such mandates in different jurisdictions and sectors. FRA’s credibility in this role is underpinned by our specialist, cross-border forensic expertise in assessing compliance and regulatory risks, remediating programs and presenting conclusions backed by data.

Authorities and Regulations we've worked with

US Department of Justice

Public Company Accounting Oversight Board

False Claims Act

Clean Air Act

FRA Independent Monitors

Frances Mcleod

Appointed by the DOJ

Stacy Fresch

Appointed by the PCAOB

What our clients say

Global Elite Thought Leader Frances McLeod is a "top-notch" figure whose "sharp mind" and personable approach make her a firm favourite.

Client Reference

Lexology Index

What our clients say

Stacy is “a wonderful forensic expert who adds a lot of value in cases.” She “possesses deep technical knowledge of complicated forensic accounting matters.” Of her valuable insight, peers and clients say they “don’t know anybody else quite at Stacy’s level, given all of her experience in the field.”

Client Reference

Lexology Index

What our clients say

Jenna is "a highly supportive practitioner who is great to work with," and is "able to meet the many ever-changing demands of a monitorship."

Client Reference

Lexology Index

What our clients say

"Their ability to handle complex and sophisticated matters is very strong. We regularly retain them in connection with high-profile matters. The depth and breadth of their team is very strong."

Client Reference

Chambers and Partners, Litigation Support Guide 2023

What our clients say

How we can help

Independent experts who understand regulators

FRA senior partners have supported and served as US DOJ, SEC, PCAOB and NYDFS-appointed monitors and independent consultants on many of the largest and highest profile cases. On top of this, more than 25 years’ experience working consistently on high profile regulatory investigations and enforcement, white-collar criminal defense, litigation and compliance and risk advisory, means FRA monitors bring:

high standards of integrity and rigor in upholding regulatory best practice,
understanding of topical fraud schemes and vulnerabilities for which compliance programs must be prepared,
insight on regulatory enforcement priorities, and
extensive experience presenting before authorities in the desired format and level of detail.

Risk-based and systematic approach

Bespoke risk assessments are core to our approach to compliance remediation, identifying with confidence the priority areas for improvement. Our model has been mapped against all leading international benchmarks and stood up to scrutiny in the context of monitorships and compliance reviews. We also leverage data analytics to conduct detailed testing as a basis for further tailored recommendations or reporting.

The success of this approach rests on our specialist teams comprising experienced forensic accountants, certified public accountants (CPA), certified fraud examiners (CFE), financial analysts, former US government officials, former investment bankers, compliance officers, attorneys, software engineers and certified computer examiners.

Clear and Transparent Communication

FRA's wider experience in all aspects of a monitorship brings an important appreciation of the role of an effective independent monitor. Clear communication between ourselves, the authority and the company is critical in meeting the authorities’ expectations. Where conflict arises, we have managed to resolve those in a collaborative, fair and measured manner as well.

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Expertise

Risk Assessments

Bespoke approach to evaluating a company’s key risks supporting a focused, proportionate and efficient action plan.

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Controls Testing, Enhancement, and Implementation

Customized, rigorous testing to achieve internal controls effectiveness at the highest standards.

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Governance, Risk Management and Compliance Enhancement

Leaders in applying a forensic mindset to developing and enhancing corporate compliance programs.

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Monitorships

Experienced monitors and trusted partners throughout all stages of a corporate compliance monitorship.

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Company Monitor Support

Trusted advisers with first-hand experience of successfully navigating companies through monitorships.

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Monitor Support

Experienced collaborators with first-hand knowledge of how specialist forensic skills can best support the monitor’s role.

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Bribery and Corruption

Independent and multi-disciplinary advice for organisations and external counsel on governance, enforcement actions and regulatory compliance.

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Fraud

Investigating, resolving and minimizing the risk of corporate fraud with forensic insight and data-driven solutions.

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Anti-Money Laundering & Sanctions

Multi-disciplinary advice for financial institutions and corporations on internal investigations, enforcement actions and regulatory compliance.

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