To start the new arm, RPC has recruited Rory O'Brien, the former head of global risk consulting and software at HR and risk consultancy Towers Watson. He is joining as a partner with a place on the management board. The new group will advise insurance clients on a range of issues from outsourcing to capital management and M&A. 

First step

Jonathan Watmough, managing partner of the firm, described the move as 'the first major step in RPC becoming a broad-based City professional services business'. He added: 'This innovative move to combine top-end consulting and legal services is compelling for our clients, and a significant departure from the traditional law firm offering.'  Mr O'Brien said: 'There is a major opportunity to create an alternative insurance consultancy provider that is independent, has deep sector expertise and an insurance industry focus.'

International

The firm has a total payroll of about 560 people, and has offices in Singapore and Hong Kong as well as its home base in the City of London. Source: RPC