DWF Group has announced a significant leadership transition. Longtime CEO of DWF Group, Sir Nigel Knowles will step down from his role on August 1, 2025. This is after five years at the helm of the global legal business.
However, Knowles will not be leaving the firm entirely. Instead, he will continue in a senior advisory capacity, focusing on strengthening client engagement and driving business development initiatives.
Matthew Doughty Appointed CEO-Elect
The company’s board of directors has unanimously appointed Matthew Doughty, current CEO of DWF’s Insurance Services division, as the next Group CEO. Doughty will formally take over leadership duties on the same day Knowles retires—August 1, 2025.
This carefully planned transition is the result of a detailed succession process. According to group chair Steve Varley, Doughty was the board’s clear choice, thanks to his broad experience across DWF’s divisions and impressive track record in strategic leadership roles.
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A Transformational Era Under Knowles
Knowles took on the role of group CEO in May 2020, during a critical time for the business. Under his leadership, DWF’s revenue grew by approximately 60%, translating to an increase of more than £175 million. More impressively, the company’s profitability more than tripled during his five-year tenure.
In 2023, Knowles led DWF through a transformational shift, steering the firm from public to private ownership in a landmark take-private deal with Inflexion, a leading private equity firm. This move positioned DWF for sustained growth and greater agility in a competitive legal landscape.
Knowles explained that his decision to retire aligns with a prior commitment made during the ownership transition. He emphasized that DWF’s strong recent performance is a credit to the “dedication of our people and the strength of our client relationships.” He also voiced confidence in Doughty’s leadership, noting their close collaboration over several years.
Doughty’s Leadership Journey and Future Plans
Matthew Doughty brings a wealth of experience to his new role. Since joining DWF in 2016 as a partner in the corporate services practice, he has held several senior positions, including chief operating officer and chief strategy officer.
In 2023, he was appointed CEO of the Insurance Services division, where he successfully led the group’s international growth strategy. During his tenure, DWF secured key panel appointments with global insurers, enhancing its industry footprint and credibility.
Doughty expressed optimism about the company’s trajectory. “The business is in a strong position, both in the UK and globally,” he said. “We continue to benefit from the backing of our investor Inflexion, and I’m excited to keep building on the strategy we’ve set in motion.”
He also acknowledged the ongoing support and guidance of Sir Nigel Knowles during the transition period. This continuity, he said, will help ensure a smooth and effective handover.
Continued Focus on Insurance Services
Even as he prepares to step into the DWF Group CEO role, Doughty will retain strategic oversight of the Insurance Services division. He will work closely with senior partner David Abbott to sustain the momentum and growth of that segment.
This dual focus reflects DWF’s commitment to both continuity and innovation as it navigates its next chapter under new leadership.
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Conclusion: A New Era for DWF Begins in 2025
With this leadership change, DWF is preparing for a new phase of growth and global expansion. As Sir Nigel Knowles moves into an advisory role and Matthew Doughty takes the reins, the firm is clearly positioning itself to adapt, lead, and thrive in an evolving legal and insurance services market.
