Secretariat is pleased to announce Hitesh Patel as the firm’s newest Managing Director based in London. With more than 30 years of international experience in addressing fraud, misconduct, and the effectiveness of regulatory compliance programmes, Patel adds significant new investigative capabilities that complement the firm’s disputes and economic advisory services.

Throughout his career, Patel has led numerous assignments with a focus on complex multi-jurisdictional issues such as bribery and corruption, anti-money laundering/counter-terrorist financing (AML/CTF), sanctions, financial misrepresentation, fraud, and market abuse, among others. He works closely with General Counsel’s offices of large multinational organizations and their legal counsel in support of disciplinary, civil, criminal, and regulatory actions. Additionally, he is known for his expertise in applying forensic technology and advanced data analytics to protect clients’ commercial interests.

“Every global organization faces many risks from bad actors, both inside their companies and from outsiders who wish to do them harm. Often, they do not know what is occurring until it is too late, and the consequences can be devastating. Pinpointing and mitigating these risks is essential to avoid the worst possible scenarios,” says Secretariat Managing Director Don Harvey. “Few people in the world know the dynamics involved in complex investigations like Hitesh. We are lucky to add his expertise and thrilled to have him as a member of the team.”

Patel adds, “Secretariat is intricately involved in some of the world’s most sensitive legal, regulatory, and business challenges. Understanding the role fraud, misconduct, and other risks may play can often be the difference between a successful outcome or catastrophe. I am excited about the opportunity to bring my skills to Secretariat’s clients and to work alongside the firm’s world-class team of experts.”

Patel has served a wide range of clients across various sectors, including pharmaceuticals and life sciences, oil and gas, defense, banking, engineering, private equity, and governmental bodies. As a recognized thought leader in the field of white collar crime, Patel has been a regular commentator in the media on topical matters and has written numerous articles and co-authored books on the subject, including “Managing Risk and Resolving Crisis” for the Financial Times and a guide on “Criminal Investigations” for Tolley’s Guide on Accountancy and Litigation Support.

Patel is a Fellow of the Institute of Chartered Accountants in England and Wales and formerly served as a Board Member of the UK’s Fraud Advisory Panel.