Chartered accountancy practice Saffery has announced the election of Nigel Burke as its new chairman for a four-year term, succeeding James Sykes.  

Sykes, the outgoing chairman, served two terms since his election in 2016. Under his leadership, Saffery experienced organic growth, with fee income doubling to £142m ($178.45m) in 2024.  

A specialist in advising wealthy private clients, James Sykes will remain a full-time client partner, focusing on his area of expertise. 

Burke, who has been with Saffery since the establishment of its film and TV unit in 2012, will lead the company while continuing to advise clients in the media and entertainment sector. 

He previously held the position of deputy chairman and collaborated with HM Treasury and HM Revenue and Customs on the UK’s creative sector production incentives.  

Burke is known for his expertise in financial, accounting, audit and taxation advice for media businesses. 

Based in Saffery’s London office, Burke will continue to serve on the company’s Partnership Committee, a role he has held since 2019.  

He said: “I am pleased and honoured to have been elected by my colleagues to serve as the new chairman of Saffery. This is a truly exciting time for our firm as we continue to consolidate our position in our chosen markets and across key economic centres of the UK – a strategy which has seen the firm deliver impressive growth in recent years.

“I look forward to working with Matthew and the wider leadership team, and helping to drive forward our strategic plan through the next stage of the Saffery journey.” 

He will work closely with managing partner Matthew Burton to oversee the company’s management.  

Burke’s election follows Saffery’s recent expansion in June, with a new director appointed to its Edinburgh office and three additional hires.