DWF's next move: leadership change as Sir Nigel Knowles steps down

Sir Nigel Knowles is stepping down as CEO of DWF after five years at the helm, handing over to insurance services head Matthew Doughty from August.

The former DLA Piper boss - knighted in 2009 for services to the legal industry - joined DWF as chair in 2017 and became CEO in 2020. DWF listed on the London stock exchange in 2019, making it the UK’s largest listed law firm at the time with a market valuation of £366 million.

His tenure as CEO included overseeing the group's high-profile take-private deal with private equity firm Inflexion in 2023. DWF’s revenues grew by 60% under his leadership, rising to £435 million in 2024, while profitability more than trebled.

Doughty joined DWF in 2016 and has held senior roles including COO and chief strategy officer. He was named CEO-elect by the board following an internal succession process. He will continue to oversee the firm’s insurance services arm - a key growth engine for the business - alongside senior partner David Abbott.

Knowles is widely regarded as one of the most influential figures in UK Big Law. The firm says he will remain at the firm as a senior adviser, focusing on client engagement and growth.

What they said

Commenting on his departure, Knowles said: "Since our take private, I have been clear that I would step back from the CEO role at the right time. Having just completed five years as Chief Executive, I believe that this is the right time to hand on to a new CEO who can lead DWF through the next phase of growth."

DWF chair Steve Varley said: "The business is stronger and more successful today than when Nigel took the helm", adding: "the Board unanimously agreed that Matt is the right person to build on the momentum that the Group has generated under Nigel’s leadership."