Forvis Mazars, a global professional services network, has appointed Fred Dearden as partner and head of private equity (PE).
The business said the move aligns with its plans to broaden support for business owners, PE-backed companies and PE funds.
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Dearden is based in London and will lead the development of a specialist, cross-service PE team.
He will also continue to expand PE-focused mergers and acquisitions (M&A) practice, working with owners seeking initial or follow-on investment.
Forvis Mazars partner and UK head of M&A Dave Hilton said: “It is a privilege to support exceptional colleagues like Fred to realise their potential and achieve partnership.
“Fred has been instrumental in developing our PE offering and driving outstanding results for clients.
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By GlobalData“His expanded role will help us take the client experience even further, providing investors and management teams with the high‑quality advice they rely on.”
Dearden has close to 15 years’ experience and previously held the role of director at Forvis Mazars. During that time, he shaped and led its PE focus in the UK.
Dearden said: “I am delighted to take on this role at such a pivotal time for the PE market.
“My focus is on deepening our sector expertise, expanding our capabilities and consistently delivering a client experience that adds real value across the investment cycle.”
Forvis Mazars recently appointed Elizabeth Young as a partner in its Risk Assurance service line based in Glasgow, Scotland. In the new role she will focus on expanding the company’s services for public sector bodies.
