IMF recruits Saker as MD

Litigation funder Bentham IMF has recruited Ferrier Hodgson partner Andrew Saker as its new managing director, to replace company founder Hugh McLernon.

Mr Saker, who has 26 years’ experience at the insolvency firm, will take up his new role in January next year.

Mr McLernon will retire from the board at that time, but will stay with the company on a full-time basis and be involved in case management and special projects.

Mr McLernon led the establishment and listing of the company – originally known as IMF (Australia) - on the ASX in 2001

Mr Saker began his career with Ferrier Hodgson in 1988, before graduating with a commerce degree in 1991.

He became a partner in the Perth practice in 1998 and has subsequently worked on high-profile insolvencies including Sons of Gwalia, Great Southern and Forge Group.

Led by managing partner Martin Jones, Ferrier Hodgson has consistently ranked as the largest insolvency firm in Western Australia in Business News Book of Lists.

It has 31 insolvency staff and 39 total staff, putting it just ahead of KordaMentha.