Saffery Trust has announced 17 promotions across its Trust Group, including seven directorships, in a landmark move which the firm says has enhanced its leadership in alignment with succession planning objectives.

The promotions, effective from 1 July, see Guernsey’s Claire Bufton promoted to Finance Director and Sharon Coburn to People & Culture Director.

Stefan Aegerter was promoted to Executive Director in Zurich.

Donna Brehaut, Nicky Kendall, Tim Le Page, and Simon Murphy (pictured top) were each elevated to Client Director in Guernsey.

The Guernsey director promotions follow the success of the award-winning firm’s Director Pathway initiative, which launched in 2024.

The initiative combined technical development with enhanced exposure to strategic thinking and emotional intelligence to bridge the gap between Associate Director and Director level and support personal and professional growth.

Saffery Trust Group Managing Director, Nick Batiste, said the initiative had been worthwhile.

“Across the Saffery Trust Group, we are fortunate to have an exceptional collective of talented professionals, each bringing something unique and equally valuable to the table. The Director Pathway was created to open doors, nurture leadership potential, and support long-term career growth.

“Celebrating six of our team members stepping into Director and Client Director roles is a clear indication that the investment of time and resources has paid off, and is a testament to the impact Claire, Sharon, Donna, Nicky, Tim, and Simon have each made on our services, our clients, and our culture.”

Other Guernsey promotions saw Sam Ward promoted to Transformation Assistant Manager, Sonia Bowditch to Senior Information Security Officer, Sue Le Gallez to Learning & Development Officer,Greg Tompkins to Trust Officer, and Oluwakemi Oguni and Dan Strobl to Senior Trust Administrators.

“Our clients place a great deal of trust in us, and that’s something we never take for granted. As a leading provider of trust and corporate services, we set high standards, and our people consistently rise to meet them,” said Mr Batiste.

“Every promotion announced today has been thoroughly earned through dedication, integrity, and excellence. I’m incredibly proud of each and every person recognised, and I look forward to seeing their continued growth and success.”