Secretariat, the global expert services, litigation consulting, and economic advisory firm, today announces the acquisition of Lighthouse Consulting Group, a renowned construction industry expert witness and project advisory firm based in Atlanta. This strategic move further bolsters Secretariat’s position as the premier provider of construction delay, damages, and litigation support services in North America, while also adding new industry-specific project advisory capabilities that address a growing range of client needs.

Founded in 2020 by noted industry veteran Neil Gaudion, Lighthouse has quickly established a reputation as a trusted advisor to the world’s leading law firms, corporations, contractors, investors, and governmental agencies on a wide range of construction disputes and project management matters. The firm’s expertise covers a significant range of capital-intensive sectors, including infrastructure, oil and gas, power, alternative energy and renewables, aerospace, and healthcare. With the acquisition, more than 35 professionals will join Secretariat in key markets, including Boston, Denver, Houston, Los Angeles, Washington, DC, and Atlanta, where both firms were originally established.

“With our deep roots in the global construction industry, we have always looked to grow our team and capabilities in North America as a strategic complement to our strengths in international and arbitration markets,” says Secretariat Managing Director Don Harvey. “When considering firms with the depth and breadth in handling the biggest construction litigation matters across the region, there is no organization that matches what Lighthouse brings to the table. The impact and access to the best talent in the industry our clients will experience by us joining forces with Neil and the entire Lighthouse team is something we could not accomplish on our own. It is a distinct honor to welcome this distinguished group to Secretariat.”

Lighthouse President and Founder Neil Gaudion added, “When we started Lighthouse, our goal was to create a unique environment devoid of the bureaucracy often found at the largest consulting firms where the best and the brightest could work together on the most complex, high-profile matters while quickly advancing in their careers. Now, as a part of Secretariat, we can scale in a way that benefits our people and our clients through the combined firm’s dynamic range of services and career opportunities. The fit – from strategic vision to organizational culture and capabilities – is unmistakable. I am excited for our future together.”