Saffery elects Darren Drake as new managing partner

Saffery has elected Darren Drake as its next managing partner, effective April 2026. Darren will succeed Matthew Burton, whose term of office concludes after eight years.

With over 25 years’ experience advising clients in the media sector, and three years leading Saffery’s Film and TV team, Darren is widely recognised in the industry as a trusted adviser to leading film and television production companies, media financiers, VFX studios, and post-production houses.

Darren joined Saffery in 2012, following the firm’s acquisition of the Film and TV team from RSM Tenon. As Head of the London Corporate Group, he has been a member of Saffery’s Management and Leadership Boards since April 2024.

Darren Drake, managing partner elect, commented:

“I’m honoured to have been elected as the firm’s next managing partner. It is a significant time for Saffery, and I’m eager to build on the strong foundations Matthew has laid to shape the next chapter of our journey. I’m working closely with Matthew to ensure a smooth transition, and I look forward to leading the firm with a continued focus on delivering exceptional client service, supporting opportunity, and enabling success for our people and clients.”

Matthew Burton commented:

“I’d like to take the opportunity to congratulate Darren on his appointment. Darren brings enthusiasm, dedication, and a fresh perspective to the role, underpinned by commercial acumen and a commitment to innovation that will help drive the firm’s continued growth.”

Since being elected as managing partner in 2018, and subsequently re-elected in 2022, Matthew has overseen a period of both transformation and sustained growth. During his tenure, Saffery has grown to become a firm of more than 1,100 people across its nine offices, with revenues of £150 million. Matthew also led the firm’s 2023 rebrand; a major milestone in its more than 160 year history and a key priority of its 2022-2026 strategic business plan. He concluded:

“It has been a privilege to serve as Saffery’s managing partner and I’m incredibly proud of what we’ve achieved together. I’m excited to continue contributing to the firm’s future and supporting its ongoing success under Darren’s leadership.”