• Forensic accountancy leader recognised in King’s Birthday Honours for playing key role delivering justice for thousands of victims

• Achievements include pioneering new approaches on crypto as well as setting the benchmark for Deferred Prosecution Agreement industry standards

• These achievements are recognised alongside Nick’s contribution to breaking barriers as a blind professional

Since joining the SFO in 1992, Nick’s dedicated leadership has transformed forensic accountancy in the organisation, which operates as part of the SFO’s unique model of lawyers, investigations, forensic accountants and other experts working together to tackle instances of serious economic crime and corruption. 

Nick has become a national expert whose advice is sought by both government and private sector organisations, and he has achieved this alongside the challenge of losing his sight. 

Nick’s achievements include spearheading the development of the SFO’s Deferred Prosecution Agreement tool, which has successfully held corporations accountable while delivering significant financial returns to taxpayers through HM Treasury. 

More recently, he has led on emerging threats, including developing methods to investigate crypto-assets. 

He also established the SFO’s Accountancy Apprenticeship Scheme, creating solid foundations to ensure accountancy remains central to serious economic crime investigation. 

On receiving his nomination Nick Stroud said:

I feel intensely proud to accept this award which recognises the contribution of accountancy professionals to the SFO’s complex investigations.

Having initially found it difficult to accept my own disability I am pleased this award shows those with disabilities can make valuable contributions, demonstrating there should be no barrier to collaborative working.

Director of the Serious Fraud Office, Nick Ephgrave QPM, said:

Nick’s exceptional expertise and collaborative approach have been instrumental in bringing justice to thousands of victims of economic crime.

His dedication to developing the next generation of forensic accountants through our apprenticeship scheme demonstrates his commitment to ensuring the UK remains a safe place to do business.