FRP appoints corporate finance director amid Liverpool office launch

FRP has launched a new office in Liverpool, establishing an on-the-ground presence in the city for the first time, whilst appointing Chris Ryan as its Corporate Finance team director for the team.

With more than 20 years’ experience working with businesses across the North West, Ryan has held senior roles at Initium Corporate Finance, Grant Thornton, and most recently Alvarez and Marsal, where he served as director of corporate finance.

Over the course of his career, he has helped complete more than 50 deals with values ranging from £1m to £100m.

In his new role, Ryan will work closely with Manchester-based partner Daniel Brecker and the wider team to build out a new FRP Corporate Finance team in Liverpool and strengthen the firm’s presence in the North West.

The launch comes following a period of strong growth for the firm in the region, with its Manchester office growing its headcount by 27 to 47 as one of FRP’s fastest-growing offices nationwide. In July, it further bolstered its service offering in the region with the appointment of forensic services specialist Michael Brian from Deloitte.

In the past 12 months it has also opened new offices in Bournemouth and Belfast, alongside further expanding its footprint with the acquisitions of Newcastle-based Williams Ali, Cardiff-based Lexington Corporate Finance, London-based One Advisory Group and valuation specialists Globalview Advisors.

FRP now operates across a network of 34 locations in England, Scotland, Wales, Northern Ireland, Cyprus and the Isle of Man.

Ryan said: “Liverpool is home to a thriving and diverse business community, with an increasing appetite for growth and investment. However, businesses across the city are also navigating complex challenges – from changing market conditions to rising operational pressures. 

“By bringing FRP’s multi-disciplinary expertise to Liverpool, we intend to provide the strategic insight and hands-on support that local businesses need to achieve their ambitions. I’m looking forward to working alongside my new colleagues in the North West and beyond to deliver real value for our clients.”

Anthony Collier, partner at FRP, added: “The opening of our Liverpool office marks another important step in FRP’s ongoing growth journey. Over the past year, we’ve seen significant momentum across our regional network – including rapid expansion in Manchester and the integration of several specialist advisory firms nationwide – as we continue to respond to strong demand for our services.

“Chris’s arrival is a key part of our long-term plan to strengthen FRP’s presence across the North West. Establishing a dedicated team in Liverpool allows us to better serve the local market and build deeper relationships within the city’s dynamic business community. Looking ahead, we see significant opportunity for growth and Chris will play a central role in driving this forward.”