Knight Frank has announced a high-profile change at the top, with Tim Robinson set to take over as the firm's next UK Managing Partner in April 2027. The veteran property expert will succeed Stephen Clifton, who is retiring from the partnership in March of the same year after nearly three decades with the company.
Currently heading Knight Frank's commercial division, Robinson has been instrumental in navigating the business through choppy market waters, achieving record revenues and profits while expanding consultancy services and recurring income streams. His leadership has coincided with significant regulatory shifts impacting the broader property sector.
In his new role, Robinson will oversee both residential and commercial operations across Knight Frank's network of 79 UK offices, as well as chairing the UK Board and maintaining a seat on the Group Executive Board – indicating continued influence over the firm's overall strategy.
Stephen Clifton has been a stalwart at Knight Frank since joining in 2000. He developed his career within the capital markets division before leading the commercial business for seven years, and was appointed UK Managing Partner in 2025 to enhance leadership across the company's UK operations.
A phased transition is planned, with Robinson working closely alongside Clifton and other senior colleagues to ensure a seamless handover. William Beardmore-Gray has praised Robinson's experience and leadership qualities, saying he is well-suited to guide the UK business through its next phase of development – with Robinson himself vowing to build on the foundations laid by Clifton.