Restructuring and insolvency firm FRP opens Exeter office

The company said the new location reflected its ‘ongoing approach to growth’

Specialist business advisory firm FRP has opened an office in Exeter. The company has appointed Luke Venner to head up the new base as it continues to expand its national footprint.

Mr Venner joins FRP after more than 20 years at South West-based accountancy and advisory firm Bishop Fleming, where he began his career as a trainee accountant before progressing to partner in 2023.

In his new role, Mr Venner will lead the establishment of FRP’s Exeter office and develop its restructuring advisory practice across Devon and the wider South West region.

He will work closely with staff across FRP’s UK network of offices, giving businesses in the region access to the firm’s wider corporate finance, debt advisory, forensic services, real estate advisory and financial advisory expertise, the company said.

“Exeter has a vibrant and varied business community, and I have spent my career working with companies and advisers across the city and the wider South West,” said Mr Venner.

“Opening an office here gives FRP the opportunity to build on those relationships while bringing the depth of expertise available across the firm closer to local clients.

“Businesses across all sectors continue to manage pressure on costs and funding, and clear advice at the right time can help management teams choose a course of action and move early enough to protect value. I look forward to working with colleagues across FRP to support Exeter’s businesses when the decisions they face matter most.”

FRP already has existing operations across the South of England, including in Bristol, Southampton, Bournemouth and Brighton. The firm employs more than 950 employees in the UK, including 108 partners.

Geoff Rowley, chief executive at FRP, added: “Luke’s appointment is an important step in FRP’s continued growth and gives us a strong foundation from which to build in Exeter. He has the experience and leadership to develop our presence in the city and connect it effectively with our wider network.

“The new office reflects our ongoing approach to growth of investing in markets where we see a clear opportunity and have the right people to build for the long term. Exeter fits that approach well, and its addition will further strengthen our national proposition.”