When one thinks of trusted names in chartered accountancy and business advisory services in the UK, Saffery Champness stands tall among the pioneers. Known for a legacy spanning more than 165 years, Saffery Champness has not only embraced the evolving financial landscape but has also contributed significantly to shaping it. The firm recently rebranded itself as “Saffery,” reflecting a digital-first approach while maintaining the values that made its name iconic. This article explores the firm’s historical journey, core services, industry specialties, international reach, and strategic vision.
The Origin and Historical Legacy of Saffery Champness
Founded in 1855, Saffery Champness started as a small accounting firm in London. Through decades of dedication, professionalism, and client-focused service, the company earned a sterling reputation. Its growth was organic and vision-driven, attracting clients from diverse sectors. The merger with Champness in the 20th century brought even more depth to the firm, creating a strong foundation of financial integrity and ethical practice.
Over the years, the firm’s name became synonymous with reliability and precision, trusted by high-net-worth individuals, dynamic corporations, family offices, and nonprofit organizations.
A Modern Identity: Rebranding to Saffery
In September 2023, Saffery Champness underwent a significant transformation by shortening its brand to simply “Saffery.” This change symbolized more than a cosmetic shift—it represented the firm’s commitment to modernization, agility, and digital innovation. Despite this evolution, Saffery preserved the principles that made it successful: integrity, independence, and tailored advice.
The rebranding also emphasized a renewed strategic alignment with Nexia International, a global network of independent accounting and consulting firms. This move ensures that Saffery can provide localized expertise with global insight.
Core Services: Comprehensive Financial Solutions
Saffery Champness is known for offering a wide array of services designed to meet the unique needs of each client. These services include:
1. Audit and Assurance
Their audit and assurance services provide clarity, accuracy, and compliance for businesses of all sizes. Saffery’s professionals ensure that clients not only meet regulatory requirements but also gain valuable insights into operational efficiency.
2. Tax Advisory
From personal tax planning to corporate tax strategies, Saffery offers solutions that minimize liabilities and ensure legal compliance. Their tax specialists are well-versed in the UK’s complex tax environment.
3. Corporate Finance
The firm assists clients in mergers, acquisitions, disposals, and fundraising. Their hands-on support during deal structuring and negotiation makes them a trusted partner for business growth.
4. Business Advisory
Entrepreneurs and business owners rely on Saffery for strategic advice that goes beyond numbers. Their consultants provide actionable guidance on performance improvement, cost control, and business transformation.
5. Trusts and Estates
For clients looking to manage intergenerational wealth or structure their estate, Saffery’s fiduciary experts offer specialized advice in trust planning and administration.
6. VAT and Indirect Taxes
Navigating the intricacies of VAT laws requires technical precision. Saffery ensures businesses remain compliant while optimizing their tax positions.
7. Forensic Accounting and Litigation Support
Saffery’s forensic specialists help resolve disputes with clarity and confidence. Their work supports litigation cases, fraud investigations, and financial reconstructions.
8. Cloud Accounting and Outsourcing
In keeping with its modern approach, the firm offers cloud-based accounting solutions and back-office outsourcing, enabling clients to focus on their core operations.
Sector Expertise: Serving Diverse Industries
One of the key strengths of Saffery Champness lies in its sector-based specialization. The firm provides tailor-made solutions to sectors such as:
Private Wealth
High-net-worth individuals and family offices benefit from the firm’s discretion, insight, and forward-thinking planning strategies.
Landed Estates and Agriculture
Saffery has a long-standing reputation for serving rural estates and agricultural enterprises, offering advice on land ownership, taxation, and succession planning.
Charities and Not-for-Profits
The firm’s commitment to the nonprofit sector is reflected in its understanding of charity governance, audit requirements, and funding structures.
Media, Sports, and Entertainment
With clients in film, television, music, and sports, Saffery delivers bespoke accounting and tax solutions tailored to the fast-paced entertainment world.
Real Estate and Construction
From residential developments to commercial property portfolios, Saffery supports clients with financing, structuring, and compliance strategies.
Life Sciences and Technology
Innovative companies in biotech, pharmaceuticals, and digital platforms benefit from Saffery’s expertise in R&D tax credits and regulatory guidance.
International Reach through Saffery Trust
Saffery’s global services are reinforced by Saffery Trust, the international fiduciary arm of the firm. This division specializes in:
- Family office administration
- Cross-border estate planning
- Trust and company formation
- Digital asset management
- ESG and philanthropic strategies
With offices in Guernsey, Switzerland, the Cayman Islands, and the UAE, Saffery Trust ensures that clients receive consistent, world-class service regardless of their location.
Leadership and Vision
The firm’s managing partner, Matthew Burton, has steered the organization with clarity and strategic foresight since 2018. Under his leadership, Saffery has embraced change, adopted emerging technologies, and fostered a culture of innovation.
The leadership team emphasizes diversity, sustainability, and professional development—values that ensure the firm stays ahead of the curve.
Embracing Technology: A Digital-First Culture
Modern financial management demands technological agility. Saffery has integrated cloud systems, real-time reporting, and cybersecurity safeguards into its operations. Clients have access to digital dashboards, instant reporting, and automated compliance features.
This commitment to technology is more than a trend—it’s a promise of efficiency, transparency, and accessibility.
Commitment to Ethical Practice
Ethical behavior is the cornerstone of Saffery’s identity. The firm adheres to the highest standards of independence, confidentiality, and regulatory compliance. This ethical approach builds lasting relationships based on trust and integrity.
Future Outlook: What Lies Ahead
The future for Saffery Champness, now operating as Saffery, looks exceptionally promising. As businesses adapt to post-pandemic challenges, tax reform, and sustainability demands, Saffery is positioned to be a key partner in navigating change.
The firm’s roadmap includes:
- Expansion into digital advisory
- Growth in ESG consultancy
- Enhanced automation and analytics
- Continued investment in global talent
With a clear vision and unwavering commitment to quality, Saffery is ready to define the next era of accountancy and business advisory.
Conclusion
Saffery Champness has earned its place as a cornerstone of the financial advisory world in the UK and beyond. Its ability to evolve with the times while preserving the essence of professional excellence sets it apart. From humble beginnings to a globally respected name, Saffery represents the gold standard in accountancy and strategic counsel.
As the world becomes increasingly complex and interconnected, one thing remains clear: businesses, families, and organizations can continue to rely on Saffery’s wisdom, integrity, and innovation for years to come.
