Bankruptcy court ruling praises compelling expert evidence delivered by Partner Richard Peters
16th September 2025
An investigation into alleged embezzlement and concealment of assets, following a bankruptcy declaration, delivered clear evidence and a criminal referral at the United States Bankruptcy Court – Southern District of Texas, Houston Division
In his ruling, Judge Jeffrey Norman praised the expert testimony delivered by HKA Partner Richard Peters, stating: “The testimony of Richard Peters with the firm of HKA Global, LLC was especially compelling as he provided services regarding the estate’s cryptocurrency assets… [said testimony] strongly indicate that [the debtor] embezzled concealed estate funds post-petition.”
Peters undertook an in-depth investigation to untangle the flow of digital assets at the heart of the debtor’s alleged Ponzi scheme. He explained: “Leveraging on-chain analytics, we traced deposits and movements of debtor and victim deposits across many different digital assets, mapping each hop and their destination. Address clustering and common-spend analysis helped correlate blockchain evidence to help provide actionable leads for asset recovery.”
With many millions of dollars of assets under investigation, Peters delivered some of HKA’s core digital forensic expert services regarding cryptocurrency, bankruptcy, and cybersecurity.
HKA welcomes Deviprasad Pentapati as Director in its Construction, Claims, and Expert Services practice
15th September 2025
HKA, a leading global consultancy in risk mitigation, dispute resolution, expert witness, and litigation support services, is pleased to welcome Deviprasad Pentapati as a Director in its Construction, Claims, and Expert Services practice based in Houston, Texas.
“I am excited to join HKA, where I will have the opportunity to apply my expertise in project advisory, forensic schedule analysis, risk mitigation, and dispute resolution within a globally respected framework. I look forward to leveraging data-driven decision-making, tested and proven methodologies, and industry best practices to support clients in navigating complex construction challenges and achieving equitable outcomes.”
Deviprasad Pentapati, Director
With over 20 years of international experience across North America, Canada, and India, Devi brings a wealth of expertise in construction advisory, dispute resolution, data analytics, project controls, and technology enablement and implementation. He has provided expert services on a wide range of complex infrastructure, transportation, oil and gas, water and wastewater treatment, and data center projects. His experience spans high-value projects such as the $4B+ Confederation Line Extension in Ottawa and the $7B+ Ascent Program at San Francisco International Airport.
“We are thrilled to welcome Devi to HKA. His extensive experience in forensic schedule analysis, cost and resource-loaded CPM scheduling, and dispute resolution across complex infrastructure and vertical construction projects will be a tremendous asset to our clients. Devi’s ability to integrate data analytics with project controls and risk management aligns with our commitment to delivering technically rigorous and high-quality expert services.”
Scott Hollingsworth, Partner, Joint Construction, Claims and Expert Services Lead, USA
Devi holds a master’s degree in civil engineering from the University of Kentucky. He is a licensed Professional Engineer in California and Texas, a certified Project Management Professional (PMP), Certified Construction Manager (CCM), Planning and Scheduling Professional (PSP), and a Risk Management Professional (RMP).
HKA Expands Intellectual Property and Financial Forensics Expertise with Echelon Analytics Team
15th September 2025
HKA is pleased to announce the addition of eight experienced and highly regarded experts from Echelon Analytics to its Americas team. This strategic expansion strengthens HKA’s capabilities in intellectual property, financial forensics, and commercial damages, reinforcing its commitment to delivering exceptional services to clients across complex disputes and investigations.
“We’re delighted to welcome eight experienced and talented experts to HKA. They bring exceptional technical acumen and deep industry insight – expanding our capabilities and reinforcing our commitment to delivering added value and exceptional services to our clients.”
Paul Ficca, Partner, Regional CEO, Americas
The Echelon team brings extensive big-firm experience in quantifying damages and delivering cogent, well-supported expert testimony. Their expertise spans intellectual property infringement and misappropriation, banking and financial institution litigation, and commercial damages arising from breach of contract, breach of fiduciary duty, fraud, and other causes of action.
“We’re thrilled to join HKA and contribute our expertise in intellectual property and financial forensics to a firm with global reach. HKA’s reputation for excellence and its collaborative culture make this a natural fit for our team and our clients.”
Barry Bell, Partner
“HKA’s multidisciplinary approach and global reach open up exciting opportunities for our team. We’re looking forward to collaborating with our new colleagues to deliver high-value solutions and expert insight across intellectual property disputes and complex investigations.”
Lance Gunderson, Partner
“This expansion reflects our continued commitment to investing in world-class talent and deepening our capabilities in areas that matter most to our clients. The addition of the Echelon team enhances our intellectual property and financial forensics offering and reinforces our position as a global leader in expert services.”
Renny Borhan, Partner, Chief Executive Officer
This expansion reflects HKA’s continued investment in top-tier talent and its commitment to delivering trusted expertise across intellectual property engagements, complex disputes, and investigations.
About HKA’s Intellectual Property practice
HKA’s IP consultants and experts work worldwide to value intangibles in most industries – from advanced technology to education, healthcare to e-commerce, and transport and consumer goods. The team is experienced in analyzing issues related to IP damages, such as apportionment of profits, manufacturing and sales capacity, available alternatives, customer demand, company and product profitability, competition, cost savings, and enhanced earnings related to licensing IP. The firm’s IP experts have evaluated and determined reasonable royalties for a broad range of products and industries, reviewing and analyzing thousands of license agreements.
Paul Farfel joins HKA’s New York Office as a Partner in its Forensic Accounting and Commercial Damages Practice
2nd September 2025
HKA, a leading global consultancy in risk mitigation, dispute resolution, expert witness, and litigation support services, is pleased to announce that Paul Farfel has joined the firm’s Forensic Accounting and Commercial Damages (FACD) practice as a Partner based in New York City.
Paul is a senior forensic accounting expert and litigation consultant with over 35 years of experience helping companies meet their accounting and reporting obligations, promote trust in their capital markets, and resolve disputes in ways that protect financial integrity, brand reputation, and stakeholder confidence. His expertise includes financial and forensic accounting and auditing, fraud detection, financial analysis, regulatory compliance, financial damages, risk management, due diligence, dispute resolution, and litigation consulting.
“Joining HKA is a natural next step in my career. The firm’s reputation for excellence in forensic accounting and dispute resolution, combined with its global reach and collaborative culture, creates an ideal environment to deliver meaningful results for clients facing complex challenges. I look forward to contributing to HKA’s continued growth and helping clients protect their financial integrity and reputations.”
Paul Farfel, Partner
Paul has improved outcomes in litigation, arbitration, and regulatory investigations by identifying exposures, refuting allegations, preparing fact and expert witnesses for deposition and testimony, and challenging damages claims related to asset misappropriation, financial mismanagement, and fraudulent accounting and reporting. He has extensive experience serving financial institutions, including commercial and investment banks, wealth and asset managers, and insurance companies.
His notable forensic accounting investigations include matters connected to the 2008 credit crisis, Ponzi schemes by investment managers, and regulatory investigations by the SEC, PCAOB, DOJ, FTC, and other agencies. He has also investigated potential FCPA violations and supported global financial institutions in meeting Sarbanes-Oxley requirements.
“We are delighted to welcome Paul to HKA. His decades of experience in forensic accounting, regulatory investigations, and litigation consulting, combined with his prior Big Four leadership and deep understanding of financial institutions, make him an exceptional addition to our team. Paul’s ability to navigate high-stakes disputes and deliver trusted insights will be invaluable to our clients and will further elevate our Forensic Accounting and Commercial Damages practice.”
Paul Ficca, Partner, Regional CEO, Americas
Prior to joining HKA, Paul spent 38 years at a Big Four firm, where he worked as a forensic accountant in the General Counsel’s Office for the past 15 years.
Paul holds an MBA from Columbia University and a Bachelor of Science in Accounting from Georgetown University. He is a Certified Public Accountant and Certified in Financial Forensics. Paul is also a member of the American Institute of Certified Public Accountants and the New York State Society of Certified Public Accountants.
HKA’s FACD experts have extensive experience advising clients on the accounting, economic, and financial impacts of complex matters. The firm’s experts serve clients by analyzing issues related to various disputes, including breach of contract, intellectual property (IP), shareholder, mergers, and acquisitions. Additionally, HKA undertakes fraud, forensic, and regulatory investigations.
David Tenenbaum joins HKA’s IP & Patent Damages Practice based in Chicago
29th July 2025
HKA, a leading global consultancy in risk mitigation and dispute resolution, is pleased to announce that David Tenenbaum has joined its Intellectual Property (IP) & Patent Damages practice as a Principal. Based in Chicago, David brings over 25 years of experience in the strategic assessment and financial valuation of intellectual property and other intangible assets across litigation, transactional, tax, and insurance-backed lending contexts.
“We are thrilled to welcome David to our growing IP team. His deep technical expertise, leadership in building high-performing teams, and proven track record in delivering value to clients across industries make him a tremendous asset to our practice and to the clients we serve.”
Mike Lasinski, Partner
David has built a distinguished career advising clients on complex IP matters, including patent, trademark, copyright, and trade secret disputes. He has led numerous engagements involving damages quantification, expert witness preparation, and valuation analysis in high-stakes litigation. His work spans a wide range of industries and has consistently helped clients develop and defend robust damages positions throughout the litigation lifecycle.
“I’m excited to join HKA and contribute to a team that is known for its excellence and integrity in complex disputes and advisory work. The opportunity to collaborate with such talented professionals and help clients navigate the evolving IP landscape is truly energizing.”
David Tenenbaum, Principal
Prior to joining HKA, David served as Managing Director and Head of Financial Valuation at Aon IP Solutions. At Aon, he built and led a team that supported the firm’s flagship IP-backed lending insurance product, which enabled high-growth companies to leverage their IP assets as collateral, unlocking access to non-dilutive capital. Under David’s leadership, the team evaluated over 100 collateral candidates and played a key role in securing insurance for more than $2 billion in IP-backed loans.
David also held senior roles at Global Economics Group and Charles River Associates, where he focused on IP litigation support and IP valuation for transactions and tax planning. His expertise includes valuation for mergers and acquisitions, joint ventures, bankruptcy, licensing, and compliance with financial reporting and tax regulations.
David holds a Master of Management from the Kellogg School of Management at Northwestern University and a B.Sc. in Industrial Engineering from the Technion—Israel Institute of Technology. He is a long-standing contributor to the International Trademark Association (INTA), where he has served on several key committees and spoken at major conferences. He has also published thought leadership articles and presented to professional groups on topics such as intangible asset valuation, IP-rich transactions, and economic damages in IP litigation.
HKA’s IP consultants and experts work worldwide to value intangibles in most industries – from advanced technology to education, healthcare to e-commerce, and transport and consumer goods. The team is experienced in analyzing issues related to IP damages, such as apportionment of profits, manufacturing and sales capacity, available alternatives, customer demand, company and product profitability, competition, cost savings, and enhanced earnings related to licensing IP. The firm’s IP experts have evaluated and determined reasonable royalties for a broad range of products and industries, reviewing and analyzing thousands of license agreements.
Ramon “Ray” de Legorburu appointed as head of Americas Investigations practice
28th July 2025
HKA is pleased to announce the appointment of Ray de Legorburu as Head of its Investigations Practice in the Americas. With more than 25 years of experience in forensic accounting, dispute resolution, and financial investigations, Ray brings a formidable track record of leadership and investigative expertise to the role.
“Ray’s appointment marks a significant milestone in the growth of our Investigations practice. His deep expertise, leadership, and client-first mindset align perfectly with our commitment to delivering trusted, high-impact solutions.”
Paul Ficca, Partner and Regional CEO, Americas
Ray is widely recognized for leading numerous high-profile investigations across sectors including construction, financial services, healthcare, media and entertainment, and transportation. His expertise spans complex matters such as FCPA violations, financial misrepresentation, embezzlement, and accounting malpractice.
An experienced expert witness, Ray has testified in depositions and trials involving economic damages and business valuations with disputed values reaching $100 million. He has also presented to the U.S. Securities and Exchange Commission on financial restatements for publicly traded companies. Fluent in both English and Spanish, Ray’s bilingual capabilities enhance HKA’s ability to navigate cross-border investigations with precision and cultural fluency.
Ray will collaborate closely with the firm’s accomplished professionals across the Americas, building on the strong foundation of HKA’s established Investigations practice.
“I’m excited to lead the Investigations practice across the Americas and work closely with our established team of experts, as well as our international colleagues, to expand HKA’s global investigations capabilities. I look forward to collaborating with our talented experts to deliver exceptional outcomes for our clients.”
Ray de Legorburu, Partner and Investigations Leader, Americas
Ray holds a degree in accounting and is a member of both the American Institute and Florida Institute of Certified Public Accountants.
Jon Scherr appointed to the Federal Enforcement Homeland Security Foundation’s Board of Directors
9th July 2025
HKA is proud to announce that Partner Jon Scherr has been appointed to the Federal Enforcement Homeland Security Foundation’s (FEHSF) Board of Directors.
The FEHSF, also known as the “Financial First Responder,” is an independent not-for-profit organization that provides emergency funding to Federal Agents and their families during times of personal hardship, injury, or loss.
“We are honored to welcome Jon to the board of the Federal Enforcement Homeland Security Foundation. His dedication and leadership will strengthen our mission to provide critical support to law enforcement professionals and their families in times of need. Jon’s commitment to service aligns deeply with our values, and we are confident his voice will be instrumental in shaping the path forward.”
Ariel K. Grossman, Chief Operating Officer, FEHSF
As a direct-giving charitable organization, the FEHSF grants financial support within 24 to 48 hours of notification when a Federal Agent or family member is injured or killed in the line of service. It is led by a volunteer board of directors and supported by a national board of current and former federal law enforcement officials.
“I’m deeply honored to join the Board of Directors for the Federal Enforcement Homeland Security Foundation. I admire and am committed to the foundation’s mission to support our Federal Agents and their families. I look forward to working alongside such a dedicated group.”
Jon Scherr, Partner
Jon is a Certified Fraud Examiner and Licensed Investigator with more than 15 years of diverse experience. His expertise includes forensic accounting, commercial damages, and litigation support on a domestic and international scale. Throughout his career, Jon has investigated matters related to employee malfeasance, executive breach of fiduciary duties, money laundering, anti-terrorist financing, white-collar fraud, and anti-bribery and corruption.
“Jon’s appointment to the FEHSF board is a testament to his leadership, integrity, and long-standing commitment to public service. His broad experience and deep sense of purpose will bring valuable perspective to the foundation’s important work.”
Energy Industries Council appoints Adam Winegard to its North and Central America Regional Advisory Board
8th July 2025
HKA is proud to announce that the Energy Industries Council (EIC) has appointed Partner Adam Winegard to its Regional Advisory Board for North and Central America.
“It is an honor to join an advisory board of such a respected organization. The EIC is at the forefront of the energy industry, playing a critical role in shaping the future of the energy sector. I look forward to lending my experience and contributing to its mission of fostering growth and advancing innovation.”
Adam Winegard, Partner
The EIC is the world’s largest, energy-agnostic trade association with over 800 member companies worldwide. Its mission is to be the voice of the global energy supply chain and support its members in exporting, diversifying, and flourishing in the marketplace. EIC members range from major international operators, contractors, and manufacturers to small- and medium-sized enterprises and more specialized product and service companies.
The EIC’s North and Central America Advisory Board includes a quorum of regional member companies across the energy supply chain to provide non-binding strategic governance and support.
“We’re thrilled to welcome Adam to the EIC’s Regional Advisory Board for North and Central America. His expertise and insights will be hugely valuable as we support our members in developing innovative, practical solutions to the complex challenges facing the global energy industry today. Collaboration and knowledge-sharing are at the heart of what we do at the EIC, and Adam will be a great addition to our community.”
Amanda Duhon, Vice President and Regional Director, North and Central America, EIC
Adam has over 28 years of professional experience in business development, management, marketing, contract administration, and qualitative and quantitative risk management assessment and analysis. At HKA, Adam collaborates with clients and counsel to identify energy, construction, forensic technical, and financial experts who can help clients avoid, mitigate, and resolve disputes. He has developed a multidisciplinary network of experts to create coordinated teams uniquely suited to client needs.
Adam also supports HKA’s energy and oil and gas business development efforts, providing technical experts, claims and contract managers, and advisory consultants for energy projects worldwide.
“Adam’s appointment to the EIC’s North and Central America Advisory Board reflects his accomplishments and the trust he has earned in the energy community. The EIC’s longstanding reputation of excellence and its role as a force in the industry make this a meaningful platform for collaboration and leadership. His insights and connections will be invaluable as we continue to expand our presence and impact in the energy sector.”
Maged Abdelsayed, Partner, Construction Claims and Expert Services Lead, Americas
Frank Giunta Honored with Consulting Magazine’s 2025 Lifetime Achievement Award
23rd June 2025
Consulting Magazine has named Frank Giunta, Partner and Senior Advisor – Global Construction Practice at HKA, as a 2025 honoree for its prestigious Lifetime Achievement Award. This recognition celebrates Frank’s remarkable contributions to the consulting industry, spanning over four decades of leadership, innovation, and excellence in construction and engineering consulting.
Beginning his career in 1981 as a claims consultant for Hill International, Inc. (Hill), Frank quickly established himself as a distinguished expert in construction-related disputes. In 1995, he co-founded Citadel Engineering and Construction Consultants, LLC, which specialized in consulting and expert testimony on large capital projects. Under his leadership, Citadel thrived and was acquired by Hill in 1999, marking the start of a transformative period for the firm’s consulting and expert practice.
By 2002, Frank had been appointed to lead Hill’s Americas division. His strategic foresight and ability to cultivate industry-leading teams culminated in the 2017 management buyout that formed HKA Global, LLC. As the first Regional CEO of the Americas, he played a pivotal role in expanding HKA’s revenues from $25 million in 2017 to an impressive $192 million by 2025.
“Frank Giunta’s recognition with Consulting Magazine’s Lifetime Achievement Award is a testament to his extraordinary contributions to the consulting industry and HKA. Over his remarkable career, Frank has demonstrated unparalleled leadership, strategic insight, and an unwavering commitment to excellence. His vision and ability to cultivate top-tier talent have been instrumental in shaping HKA into a world-class organization. We are grateful for his legacy and proud to celebrate this well-deserved honor.”
Renny Borhan, Partner, Chief Executive Officer
Reflecting on his success, Frank attributes his achievements to surrounding himself with motivated, intelligent, and talented professionals, fostering a culture of collaboration, trust, and resilience. “Growing a business with people I respect and enjoy working with is deeply fulfilling,” he said. “It’s about making a meaningful impact while continuously adapting to industry challenges and opportunities.”
His leadership philosophy extends beyond financial growth, as evidenced by his commitment to mentorship, strategic execution, and industry engagement. Frank is a firm believer in empowering teams, cultivating talent, and building lasting relationships with clients and colleagues alike. His dedication to excellence was recognized by ENR Magazine in 2020, when he was named one of its “Top 25 Newsmakers” for his leadership during the COVID-19 pandemic, spearheading pro bono roundtable discussions that provided critical guidance to industry professionals.
“It is truly humbling to receive Consulting Magazine’s Lifetime Achievement Award. My career has been shaped by the talented professionals with whom I’ve had the privilege to collaborate, the challenges we’ve navigated together, and the meaningful relationships built over the years. Consulting is about more than just business growth—it’s about driving impact, fostering collaboration, and mentoring the next generation. I’m proud of what we’ve accomplished and grateful for the many people who have contributed to this journey. This recognition reflects their hard work as much as mine.”
Frank Giunta, Partner, Senior Global Advisor to Construction
Upon being selected to receive the Lifetime Achievement Award, Frank expressed deep gratitude for the recognition. “This honor is not just a personal milestone—it represents the collective efforts of my colleagues and industry partners. Success is built upon the greatness of others, and I’m grateful to have worked alongside some of the best professionals in the field.”
With over 45 years of experience, Frank remains a leading voice in construction consulting. He has testified as an expert witness in various legal forums and lectured extensively on project delivery systems, risk management, and dispute resolution. Frank is a former adjunct faculty member of Drexel University and Widener University, teaching in the construction management program, and a fellow of the Project Management College of Scheduling. He has also been recognized in Lexology Index reports for Construction and for Construction – Thought Leader, where feedback from the research says: “Frank Giunta is celebrated for his vast experience and expertise advising clients on construction defects, schedule delays, and financial analysis.”
Frank’s impact on the industry is undeniable, and his legacy of leadership, innovation, and mentorship will continue to shape the future of consulting.
View Frank’s expert profile here, and discover more about the firm’s experts by visiting our extensive Expert Centre.
Rocco R. Vespe to receive the CMMA MAC Lifetime Achievement Award
5th June 2025
HKA is proud to announce that Principal Rocco R. Vespe will receive the distinguished Construction Management Association of America (CMAA) Mid-Atlantic Chapter (MAC) Lifetime Achievement Award at the 2025 Awards Gala on June 13.
The Mid-Atlantic Chapter of the CMAA was loosely formed in the mid-1980s when local industry professionals saw the need to come together to discuss industry concerns and promote the profession. Today, the organization has a membership of nearly 600 construction management professionals from the tri-state Philadelphia Metro area.
CMAA MAC’s members represent more than 80 companies, including some of the largest architectural, engineering, and construction firms in the United States, and government agencies such as the U.S. General Services Administration, U.S. Army Corps of Engineers, and U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs. The organization also serves multiple educational institutions, including Cornell University, Delaware County Community College, Rowan University, and Temple University.
Each year, the CMAA MAC hosts a much-anticipated Project of the Year and Scholarship Awards Gala. Beyond presenting awards in various project categories and several scholarships, the chapter honors multiple professionals with the Industry Lifetime Achievement Award, CMAA MAC Lifetime Achievement Award, Trail Blazer Award, CMAA MAC Owner of the Year, and CMAA MAC Small Business of the Year.
Rocco, a civil engineer with over 40 years of industry experience, is a member of HKA’s Forensic Engineering, Architectural, and Technical Expert Services practice in the Americas. With expertise in delay, quantum, and technical matters, he has proved to be a credible expert witness under cross-examination in litigation and arbitration. He has acted as an expert for disputes with values up to $250M and projects with values of more than $1B.
“I am deeply honored to receive the CMAA Mid-Atlantic Chapter Lifetime Achievement Award. This recognition is a reflection not only of my own journey but of the many colleagues, mentors, and clients who have inspired and challenged me throughout my career. I’ve always believed in the power of collaboration, integrity, and continuous learning in our industry, and I’m proud to have contributed to its growth and evolution over the past four decades.”
Rocco R. Vespe, Principal, HKA
“Rocco’s contributions to the construction and engineering industry over the past four decades have been nothing short of extraordinary. His technical expertise, integrity, and unwavering commitment to excellence have made him a trusted advisor and a respected leader within our firm and across the profession. This Lifetime Achievement Award from the CMAA Mid-Atlantic Chapter is a fitting recognition of his enduring impact and exemplary service.”
Frank Giunta, Partner, Senior Global Advisor to Construction
Rocco is a licensed Professional Engineer in seven states, a well-respected author, and a construction industry instructor. He has drafted articles and developed and taught seminars nationally on project management, construction management performance, claims avoidance, risk management, alternative contracting methods, change order management, construction defects, and delay analysis. He is also a skilled former contractor with a strong background in dispute avoidance and resolution.
Rocco is a fellow of the Construction Management Association of America, a member of the CMAA National Committee that issued the 2015 CMAA Standards of Practice, and a longtime member and former Chapter President (2010–2012) of the CMAA Mid-Atlantic Chapter. He has also been recognized in Lexology Index reports for Construction and for Consulting – Construction – Quantum, Delay, and Technical.
View Rocco’s expert profile here and discover more about the firm’s experts by visiting our extensive Expert Centre.
HKA’s forensic engineering, architectural, and technical experts provide expert advisory, expert determination, and expert witness services for clients worldwide. Depending on the assignment, the firm’s technical specialists act as sole experts within a specialized technical team or collaborate with other experts in complementary disciplines such as quantum, delay, forensic accounting, and commercial damages, known as HKA’s multidisciplinary service.
