Who We Are
With over 40 years of global experience, the Fairfax Group helps resolve the world’s most complex and sensitive challenges related to crisis and risk management, compliance, security, and more. Our network of experts reaches organizations worldwide, and spans across both public and private sectors, providing industry-standard solutions designed to fit the specific needs and requirements of each individual client.
Headed by industry expert Michael J. Hershman, the Fairfax Group distinguishes itself with its unparalleled breadth of international experience across the corporate, government, and NGO sectors.
Michael Hershman brings global expertise from a wide range of industries, establishing one of the most extensive contact networks in the business. Where other agencies and firms must start from scratch, the Fairfax Group can immediately act — the foundation and experience are already in place.
Through longstanding strategic partnerships and advanced technological capabilities, coupled with its unparalleled experience, insights, and global network, the Fairfax Group remains at the forefront of innovative investigative services designed to meet the world’s most pressing security challenges.
Integrity and Accountability
The Fairfax Group believes in its core values of integrity and accountability — values that we believe all businesses, governments and civil organizations should apply alongside boldness, innovation, and trust.
We believe in practicing what we preach, which is why we support Transparency International and other key advocacy organizations that promote worldwide integrity and global professionalism.
Agile Responses to Evolving Threats
In today’s world, time is dead and distance is moot. Threats evolve quickly, and so do the technologies we use to combat those threats.
While we specialize in providing individualized solutions for complex problems, we also know that what is complex today may not be tomorrow. What’s more, a new set of complex challenges is likely just around the corner. That’s why we believe in responding with agility to threats as they are — and as they evolve.
Human Sources Meet Technology
We implement technology that goes beyond ordinary open source resources, operating on the intersection of human intelligence and AI and ML-driven technology.
It’s open source intelligence on steroids, combining the unique insights of on-the-ground assets and resources with the data-driven intelligence of modern AI and ML systems.
Results Now and for the Long-Term
The Fairfax Group doesn’t stop when your crisis is under control — in today’s vulnerability-ridden business and government worlds, risk management is a task that never ends.
In addition to responding to acute security and intelligence crises, we’ll audit and finesse your existing risk protection systems, so you’re protected for the long term.
The History of the Fairfax Group
One of the company’s earliest milestones was its work for General Electric, a pivotal case involving trade secret protection that resulted in criminal convictions and a large civil settlement. This experience set the tone for the Fairfax Group’s ability to navigate high-stakes, multi-dimensional investigations.
Under Hershman’s leadership, the company grew from a solo operation to a globally respected team of professionals drawn from the highest ranks of government, business, and law enforcement. Notably, Fairfax Group merged with Decision Strategies International in 1997, creating a powerhouse in investigative and risk management services, known as DSFX.
Throughout its history, the Fairfax Group has been instrumental in numerous high-profile investigations and compliance initiatives, including the Bofors scandal and major corporate clients such as Siemens AG, FIFA, and NBC. Hershman’s deep experience spans decades of global work in corporate governance, anti-corruption efforts, and crisis management, making the Fairfax Group one of the top global firms in risk management and investigative services.
Today, the Fairfax Group remains committed to providing world-class solutions for clients spanning across numerous public and private sectors and industries, leveraging a unique blend of investigative prowess, global experience, and cutting-edge technology.
Meet Our Team
Michael Hershman
President and Chief Executive Officer
Michael Hershman is an internationally recognized expert on matters relating to business ethics, governance, litigation, and security. Hershman’s career began in the late 1960s as a Special Agent in U.S. Military Intelligence, where he specialized in counterterrorism and was awarded the U.S. Army Commendation Medal. Following his military service, Hershman spent time investigating government misconduct and financial fraud for the New York City Department of Investigations and New York State Special Corruption Prosecutors’ Office. In this post, he was also responsible for investigations of inmate deaths in the New York City Correctional System.
Later, Hershman went on to serve as a Senior Staff Investigator for the Senate Watergate Committee led by U.S. Senator Sam Ervin of North Carolina. He then worked as Chief Investigator for the joint Presidential and Congressional commission reviewing state and federal laws on wiretapping and electronic surveillance. After the wiretap commission hearings, Hershman joined the Federal Election Commission as Chief Investigator, where he was responsible for audits and investigations of candidates and their campaign committees.
After this, Hershman served as Deputy Staff Director for the Subcommittee on International Organizations of the Committee on International Relations of the United States House Committee on Foreign Affairs to investigate the “Koreagate” bribery scandal, which implicated several U.S. political officeholders. Immediately prior to founding the Fairfax Group, Hershman served as Deputy Auditor General for the Foreign Assistance Program of the U.S. Agency for International Development (AID), where he led investigations and audits of major U.S. funded projects overseas and was responsible for worldwide security for all foreign AID missions. He was awarded the Superior Honor Medal for his service at AID.
In 1983, Hershman founded the Fairfax Group and since then has been retained by governments, corporations, NGOs, and international financial institutions to assist on matters relating to transparency and accountability in governance and compliance. As founder of Fairfax Group, Hershman has participated in some of the most prominent disputes around world. From high profile events including the Olympics and Super Bowls, to targeted terrorist attacks, Hershman has leveraged his extensive expertise to assist individuals and entities facing complex security threats across various professions and industries. Fairfax merged with Decision Strategies International in 1997, becoming Decision Strategies/Fairfax International L.L.C. (DSFX), headquartered in New York. In 2001, DSFX was acquired by its client, SPX Corporation, headquartered in Charlotte, North Carolina, with Hershman remaining as chairman of the new SPX subsidiary. In late 2006, he left SPX then re-established the Fairfax Group where it had originally been founded, in Fairfax County, Virginia. Fairfax clients have included domestic and international governments, law firms, and corporate clients such as General Electric, NBC, and Pfister. Noted investigations include the Bofors scandal, which transpired following Hershman’s revelation that Swedish arms manufacturer Bofors had bribed Indian politicians to win a bid to supply the country with military-grade artillery weapons. Bofors also had attempted to bribe Hershman to halt investigation and undermine key figure Vishwanath Pratap Singh. In addition, Hershman was named independent compliance advisor to the board of directors of Siemens in 2006, to structure its governance and transparency, helping mitigate pending fines through compliance, to be levied following its worldwide bribery scandal.
In 1993, Hershman joined Peter Eiger, formerly of World Bank, in co-founding Transparency International (TI) as a director of its board. The watchdog group is based in Germany and cited as the foremost NGO battling corruption globally, with a mission to “stop corruption and promote transparency, accountability and integrity at all levels. TI has since grown internationally, now accounting for more than 90 national chapters.
Since 2008, Hershman has been named each year to Ethisphere Institute’s list of 100 most ethical global leaders in business ethics. Hershman received commendation for business ethics from The General Assembly of the Virginia House of Delegates in its House Joint Resolution 1002 in 2009. In 2010, he was a founder of the International Anti-Corruption Academy in Vienna, Austria. In 2012, Hershman served on the independent governance committee for FIFA, soccer’s global governing body, following an array of scandals. After two years of investigation, he surmised that a “complete reorganization of FIFA, with a change in leadership and in the top staff” was necessary. In 2013, he was awarded Columbia Business School’s ‘Botwinick Award for Business Ethics’. In 2015, he chaired the Ad Hoc Police Practices Review Commission in Fairfax County, Virginia. Hershman would go on to serve as Group CEO of the International Centre for Sport Security (ICSS) in June 2016. In addition, he has previously served as an independent monitor of International Medical Corps, as well as an advisor on corruption matters to Interpol. He currently serves as a board member the Center for International Private Enterprise (CIPE), Coalition for Integrity, U.S. Chamber of Commerce, and sits on the board of trustees for Marymount University.
Hershman earned a Bachelor of Science degree in Criminal Justice from John Jay College of Criminal Justice, City University of New York. He has given hundreds of speeches throughout the world on issues related to transparency and accountability and has provided commentary on ABC, CBS, NBC, PBS, CNN, CNBC, MSNBC, and the Fox News Channel, as well as countless national radio shows. For five years he was the co-host of the Public Radio Law Show. He has been quoted and published in the Wall Street Journal, the New York Times, the New York Post, the Washington Post, USA Today, the Financial Times, the National Law Journal, and other print media.
Charles Hershman
Partner and Vice President
Charles Hershman is an accomplished national security professional with extensive experience in advanced and emerging technologies, intelligence analysis, risk management, investigations, litigation, and corporate compliance. He began his professional career at Orbis Operations, a Virginia-based global security firm specializing in cybersecurity, defense, and intelligence solutions. At Orbis, Hershman conducted open-source research for U.S. government (USG) and commercial projects, producing analytical reports and supporting logistical operations. This early experience laid the foundation for his expertise in security and intelligence operations.
In 2014, Hershman joined the U.S. Chamber of Commerce, serving as Program Coordinator for the National Security & Emergency Preparedness department (now the Cyber, Space, and National Security department). Through the National Security Task Force (NSTF) and its working groups, the department collaborates with Congress, the administration, and international governments and institutions to ensure a secure global trade environment, resilient private sector cyber networks, and a disaster-resilient business community. Hershman’s responsibilities included database management, event planning, and cybersecurity policy analysis. He also contributed to the Chamber’s global supply chain security and trade facilitation initiatives, working closely with Chamber members on homeland and national security issues, further strengthening public-private sector collaboration.
Following his time at the Chamber, Hershman served as a Program Associate at the Center for International Private Enterprise (CIPE), one of the four core institutes of the National Endowment for Democracy and an affiliate of the U.S. Chamber of Commerce.
In 2019, Hershman joined The Fairfax Group as a Research Associate, managing the firm’s due diligence investigation operations related to executive hiring and mergers and acquisitions. He also spearheaded research into state-owned enterprises and anti-corruption compliance and governance issues, providing critical insights for client decision-making.
In 2021, Hershman transitioned to Integrity Risk International, a Virginia-based risk consultancy firm, where he served as a Senior Research Analyst. While serving at Integrity Risk, he researched and developed hundreds of due diligence reports for clients across numerous industries, including healthcare, financial services, and advanced manufacturing. He also led enhanced investigative probes into fraud and money laundering and contributed to the development of the company’s first Environmental, Social, and Governance (ESG) product, which later became an official offering for clients. During this time, Hershman further solidified his reputation in the security and investigative space, supporting numerous Fortune 500, real estate, and legal clients. He accomplished this while also providing training and mentorship for onboarding employees.
In May 2022, Hershman joined Thomson Reuters Special Services (TRSS) as an Analyst. TRSS specializes in risk management, intelligence, and security solutions. He initially supported anti-human trafficking programs for the U.S. Department of Homeland Security before advancing to a lead analyst role supporting a prominent U.S. Intelligence Agency. In this capacity, Hershman led a team specializing in enhanced investigations and intelligence gathering, focusing on advanced and emerging technologies critical to the U.S. Intelligence Community (IC) and Department of Defense security posture. He and his team utilized advanced data analytics, artificial intelligence, and machine learning tools to address critical issues related to national security, counterterrorism, and emerging technology risks.
In February 2025, Hershman returned to The Fairfax Group as Vice President, a role that reflects both his exceptional expertise in risk management, intelligence analysis, and corporate compliance, as well as the deep trust and confidence placed in him by the firm’s leadership. His return to Fairfax Group comes at a pivotal time as the business continues to expand its global footprint and modernize its suite of investigative and risk management services. Hershman’s leadership is expected to play a transformative role in advancing the firm’s capabilities related to emerging technologies, anti-corruption compliance, strategic intelligence gathering, and more. Known for his innovative approach, commitment to excellence, and ability to lead high-performing teams, Hershman brings a dynamic vision for the future of the internationally recognized firm.
Hershman earned a Bachelor’s degree in Global Security and Justice from the University of Virginia. In addition, he is a Certified Social Media Intelligence Expert (CSMIE). In the past, he has served on the American Enterprise Institute (AEI) Executive Council at UVA, where he facilitated bipartisan dialogue on free enterprise and organized policy-focused leadership events. Hershman also previously worked in U.S. Congressman Gerald Connolly’s office in Washington, DC, contributing to legislative research and policy briefings on foreign affairs and intergovernmental reform.
Nathan Feldman
Director
Nathan Feldman specializes in corporate strategy, operations, and business development, with extensive experience in driving organizational growth. His career began at Gartner, where he played a pivotal role in business development as part of the original Challenger Sales team. Feldman achieved success in solution sales and earned a promotion to Senior Associate within his first year. Following his tenure at Gartner, Feldman transitioned to the National Association of Manufacturers (NAM) as a Manager of Member Relations. Leveraging his deep understanding of industry dynamics, he surpassed revenue targets and implemented innovative business development approaches. Feldman’s contributions at NAM strengthened partnerships and drove sustainable growth strategies. Subsequently, Feldman advanced to the U.S. Chamber of Commerce, honing his expertise in strategic analysis and public policy. As a Senior Manager of Corporate Relations and part of the Chamber Technology Engagement Center (C_TEC), he led successful fundraising campaigns and achieved notable improvements in client retention rates. His proficiency in navigating complex industries and building strong relationships with C-level executives has been a hallmark of his professional journey.
Feldman’s early career included impactful internships, such as research roles at the U.S. Chamber of Commerce, where he conducted extensive studies on disruptive technologies like cryptocurrencies. This foundational experience bolstered his understanding of emerging digital economies, positioning him as a forward-thinking leader in blockchain technology. A graduate of Babson College with a Bachelor of Science in Business Administration and concentration honors in Legal Studies, Feldman also brings a strong entrepreneurial mindset cultivated through his academic and professional experiences. At Babson College, Feldman was a four-year starter for the varsity lacrosse team while simultaneously helping run a successful startup company selling Bluetooth tracking devices. The company would later partner with Tumi, Inc., leading to the incorporation of the tracking technology in several of Tumi’s luggage lines. He is certified in Open-Source Intelligence (C|OSINT), as well as a Certified Cryptocurrency Forensic Investigator (CCFI).
Richard H. Hershman
Senior Advisor
Richard Hershman has more than 40 years of professional experience in accounting, auditing, restructuring, financial investigations, and complex financial matters involving financial reporting and the application of generally accepted accounting principles (GAAP) and statutory accounting principles. He currently serves as a Senior Advisor with FTI Consulting based out of New York, where he advises FTI’s Global Insurance Services practice. Mr. Hershman is a Certified Public Accountant in the State of New York.
In addition to executive positions at insurance companies, Mr. Hershman’s career includes assignments as a board member and an audit committee member at several insurance companies: an audit partner at one of the Big 4 accounting firms. Mr. Hershman was Chief Financial Officer for several insurers with responsibility for accounting, reporting, planning, actuarial, investments, information systems, administration, human resources and reinsurance.
Mr. Hershman has been involved as executive management, as a consultant or as an expert in several of the largest restructurings in the insurance industry over the past several decades. This includes as the CFO in the restructuring related to Zurich/Home Insurance. He has been an advisor on the restructuring plan for one of the largest Life Reinsurers. He also has been an expert on litigation related to the restructurings of a multibillion credit insurer and one of the world’s largest property casualty/life insurers.
Mr. Hershman earned a Bachelor of Science degree in Accounting from the State University of New York at Buffalo and a Masters of Business Administration in Taxation at Bernard Baruch College. He also holds several professional affiliations, including with the American Institute of Certified Public Accountants, Insurance Federation of New York (Former Board Member), New York State Society of Certified Public Accountants, and Society of Insurance Financial Management.
Richard Esposito
Senior Advisor
Richard Esposito is a leading corporate strategist whose work is in reputation management, crisis communication, and in defense of intellectual property spans over multiple decades, and across both public and private sectors. His expertise includes significant experience in setting and overseeing complex policy and investigative agendas. He currently serves as Chief Executive Officer of RoundHouse Strategies, based out of New York.
Esposito has maintained an impressive 35-year track record as a journalist, as well as a news and public affairs executive. He has served in roles including Senior Executive Producer, Investigations, for NBC News and Deputy Commissioner for Public Information and for Strategic Communications at the New York City Police Department (NYPD). At NYPD, he saw one of the nation’s largest public affairs offices. As part of his role with NYPD, Esposito successfully lead a widespread and intuitive communications strategy, especially pertaining to initiatives designed to win back public trust. This work came during a time of great mistrust, as evidenced by a wave of national protests amidst a nationwide “defund the police” movement, which was particularly active in New York City. In addition to this, Mr. Esposito was responsible for executive communications training and developing branded content, including podcasts targeting diverse audiences.
His advisory services include litigation support, conflict resolution, C-Suite counsel, proactive reputation management, and the successful execution of media strategies across complex and highly sensitive landscapes. His recent client base includes global entertainment industry corporations, one of the world’s two largest brand licensing companies, prominent public figures, first tier law firms, as well as private equity and Wall Street executives.
Esposito’s subject matter expertise is evidenced by his role as CBS News Law Enforcement Contributor, serving the network and its affiliates on camera and behind the scenes. He serves on the board of advisors for several firms in data analytics and forensic aspects of the public safety space.
A winner of five Emmy Awards, Esposito shares a Pulitzer Prize, a George Polk Award for television investigations, and multiple Edward Murrow awards. He has been recognized for significant accomplishments as a journalist at ABC News, NBC, and other new media organizations within digital, cable, broadcast, radio, and print industries.
He is the author of three nonfiction books, the first of which examined the “War on Drugs,” and told the story of the officers and agents who fought it. The second was the result of spending a year embedded within the NYPD bomb squad. The latest book, published in the fall of 2024, is a biography of a journalist, Jimmy Breslin, titled “The Man Who Told the Truth.”
Stephen Davis
Senior Advisor
Stephen Davis is a seasoned law enforcement and investigative professional with decades of experience in public safety, crisis management, and security consulting. His career spans both the public and private sectors, with extensive leadership roles in law enforcement, media relations, and corporate investigations. Davis has served as a senior official in the New York City Police Department (NYPD), as well as a trusted advisor to corporate and legal clients through his work in private investigative services. His expertise includes high-level security operations, investigative strategy, and media coordination in complex law enforcement and corporate environments.
Mr. Davis began his career with the NYPD in 1980, serving in investigative and supervisory roles that included major crime cases and internal investigations. In 1987, he was promoted to the rank of Captain and took charge of the NYPD’s Public Information Division. In that post, he managed media operations and coordinated press briefings for the department’s leadership, a role he held until 1991.
In 1991, Davis transitioned to the private sector as a managing director at Decision Strategies/Fairfax International (DSFX), an investigative and security consulting firm. He led DSFX’s New York office for the next decade. In that capacity, he directed complex investigations and security projects for a broad range of legal and corporate clients. DSFX/Fairfax International was a partnership venture involving what is now the present-day Fairfax Group, where Davis serves as a senior advisor.
In 2001, Davis founded Davis Investigative Group, LLC, offering investigative, security, and crisis management services to law firms and corporations. Davis would serve as the firms President until 2014, when he returned to work for the NYPD.
Davis rejoined the NYPD in 2014 as a Deputy Commissioner, serving as the department’s chief spokesperson. In this executive role, he oversaw department policy issues and coordinated the NYPD’s media activities until his departure in 2018. After leaving the police department again in 2018, Davis resumed leadership of Davis Investigative Group. He holds a Bachelor of Science degree in Criminal Justice Administration from John Jay College of Criminal Justice and is a graduate of the FBI National Academy. His professional affiliations include the International Association of Chiefs of Police, the Major Cities Police Chiefs Association, the National Law Enforcement Associates, and the FBI National Academy Associates.