Huron CEO: We can finish our projects

WHITEWATER, Wis. -- A chief executive officer is promising University of Wisconsin System regents that an accounting scandal at his firm will not affect its work on an $81.4 million payroll project.

Jim Roth, CEO of Chicago-based Huron Consulting Group Inc., told the regents Thursday the company was taking steps to keep key consultants from leaving the firm.

He acknowledged there is a cloud hanging over the company as a result of an investigation by the Securities and Exchange Commission that could take a year or longer. But he says that should ease over time as clients realize the company is doing fine.

Roth said he will agree to new contract provisions that give the system additional safeguards should the company fail.