Switzerland

Switzerland: Independent, Connected, Reassuring

Switzerland offers a unique blend of legislative freedom, global accessibility, and a longstanding reputation for stability. It’s where independence meets innovation—and where we bring our clients the best of both worlds.

Why Switzerland?

Legislative Flexibility: As a signatory to The Hague Convention, Switzerland recognises the Law Applicable to Trusts, giving clients the freedom to select their preferred governing law.
Global Access: With overlapping time zones and strong international travel links, Switzerland is a strategic location for clients around the world.
Trusted for Generations: With a 250-year reputation in wealth management, Switzerland combines innovation with stability.

Our Swiss story

In 2008, after decades of experience in Guernsey, we established a local presence in Geneva to better serve our multi-jurisdictional clients. Led by Paul Tucknott, who relocated from Guernsey to ensure continuity in service and values, the Geneva office quickly became an extension of our ethos.

Following Geneva’s success, we expanded to Zurich in 2012—now home to Client Directors Stefan Aegerter and Tim Parkinson. Today, our Swiss team includes over 40 professionals, bringing global perspectives and multilingual capabilities to our clients.

A responsible and engaged business

We’re proud of the role we play in the Swiss community. From fundraising initiatives and environmental awareness campaigns to our Geneva office’s climate-neutral certification since 2020, our teams champion responsible business practices.

Our commitment to sustainability was further solidified in 2024 when we completed a full Sustainability and ESG Maturity assessment. This independent evaluation analysed environmental, social, and governance factors across various business areas, setting the stage for long-term sustainability projects.

Recognised excellence

In May 2024, Saffery Trust attained a trustee licence from the Swiss Financial Market Supervisory Authority (FINMA), often referred to as a “seal of quality” for trustees. This milestone reflects our rigorous standards and commitment to professional excellence.

Further testament to our commitment to excellence is our certification as a ‘Great Place to Work’ (2024). Reflecting our thriving workplace culture, built on trust, innovation, and collaboration.

What we offer

Our Swiss offices serve a global client base with a wide variety of assets and needs. From complex trust structures to modern family office support, we tailor each solution to suit the people behind the structures.

With 16 languages spoken across the team, we offer truly personalised service—helping clients navigate legal, cultural, and financial complexities with ease. Whether in Geneva, Zurich, or collaborating with colleagues in Guernsey, Cayman, or the UAE, we work as one team to ensure continuity and excellence.

Always one step ahead

Our Swiss teams are entrepreneurial, agile, and plugged in. We offer clients cutting-edge blockchain-based data security, consolidated reporting platforms, and on-the-ground support for Swiss-based family offices.

We’re connected to trusted specialists—both in-house and external—and maintain the freedom to make timely, informed decisions in the best interests of our clients.

At every step, we’re here to support opportunity and enable success.