Grant Thornton appoints Phil Gunter-Rees as Partner in modelling team
International professional services firm Grant Thornton has strengthened its UK valuations and modelling practice with the appointment of Phil Gunter-Rees. He arrives from Big Four firm EY, where he was most recently a Director.
Speaking after his appointment, Phil Gunter-Rees commented, “I am thrilled to be joining Grant Thornton and working with an exceptionally talented group of specialist financial modellers… As a team, we are dedicated to applying progressive modelling practices that create confidence and support enhanced decision-making capability.”
Grant Thornton’s holistic suite of corporate value consulting solutions centres on measuring value while helping organisations make better, more informed decisions. The UK valuation and modelling practice collaborates with over 700 valuation specialists in 60 countries to help expedite the deal process of clients, from board-level financial decisions pivoting on fairness and solvency to timely advice on value measurements stemming from tax strategies and accounting regulations.
“Each day sees us tackling a new complex client puzzle,” Gunter-Rees added, “with our models typically used to assist in financial forecasting, corporate strategy and deals work… I am passionate about providing practical support to our clients and contributing to the important decisions central to their success.”
Having originally obtained a degree in Aeronautical Engineering, Gunter-Rees quickly moved into the world of financial modelling, and has accrued more than 25 years of experience in the service line over his career. This includes seven years with Big Four firm EY, where he was latterly a Director.
He brings a unique perspective having previously worked in industry, banking and within professional practice. As well as extensive experience in the infrastructure, energy and consumer products sectors, he has also worked with a varied client base including private equity and large corporate clients.
Tomas Freyman, Partner and Head of Valuations and Modelling at Grant Thornton UK, stated, “Phil’s values are very much aligned with Grant Thornton’s. He is committed to putting people development at the heart of what we do and ensuring that we have well-shaped, expert teams fully equipped to rise to the complex challenges facing our clients… His extensive experience and network will be vital in helping us to build on our already strong offering in the market.”
Moving forward, Gunter-Rees will co-lead the modelling team within the wider valuations and modelling practice. While focusing on broadening the firm’s suite of services that are centred around solving complex client issues through modelling, he will also look to apply tried and trusted modelling methodologies to support the growing and varied needs of businesses across the country. This will see him working closely with businesses that are anticipating change, playing a major part in distilling requirements and shaping their solutions.
