Opus appoints Insolvency Practitioner Partner

Opus Restructuring and Insolvency has announced that it has strengthened its South Coast presence by appointing experienced Insolvency Practitioner Andrew Watling as a Partner.

Based in Opus’ Southampton office, Watling brings more than 40 years’ experience in the restructuring and insolvency sector and joins Opus from a national advisory practice, where he spent 13 years and successfully led the firm’s largest office in Southampton. Watling will be joined by former colleague, Mel Croucher, who will further bolster the South Coast team as Senior Manager.

The two appointments mark the next stage in the development of Opus’ south coast presence, having launched its Southampton office in October last year as part of the firm’s continued national growth strategy. Opus has quickly established itself in the regional market, and this presence forms a key part of the firm’s plans to build a significant presence across the South Coast.

Watling brings extensive experience across sectors, including engineering, fashion, retail and construction, covering administrations, liquidations and receiverships. He also helps businesses through restructuring and funding solutions to avoid formal insolvency. He has handled high-profile cross-border matters, most recently acting as liquidator of a world-famous Italian lingerie brand, saving the 70-year-old business and over 200 jobs through an innovative international protocol.

Earlier in his career, Watling worked as an Examiner at the Insolvency Service and has broad experience in personal insolvency.

Mike Field, Partner of Opus’ Southampton office, said “Andrew is hugely respected in the South Coast restructuring community and brings a wealth of experience built up over four decades in the profession. His appointment is an important step in our plans to grow and expand our capability to support businesses and stakeholders across the region.”

Tim Dolder, Managing Partner at Opus, said “The launch of our Southampton office last year was an important milestone for the firm, and we have strong plans for our continued growth across the region. Andrew’s appointment reflects our confidence in the opportunity across the South Coast and our commitment to investing in experienced people to support that expansion. His reputation, experience and relationships in the market make him an excellent addition to the partnership.”