Retirement Villages Group (RVG) has appointed Will Bax (pictured) as its chief executive. 

Bax takes over from Andrew Ovey, head of healthcare at AXA Investment Managers – Real Assets, who assumed the position when AXA IM – Real Assets acquired RVG in September 2017. Ovey will continue as a director with an active role in the group.

Previously executive director at Grosvenor Group with responsibility for the management and development of its 300-acre central London estate, Bax is experienced in site development and management.

He has chaired the Mayfair Forum and was a board member of the New West End Company, the business improvement district for the West End. 

Ovey said: “We’re delighted to welcome Will and see him lead the continued growth of the business. Over the last 18 months, AXA IM – Real Assets has set RVG up with the structure and procedures necessary to invest institutional capital into the sector. We have made good progress with our pipeline, starting construction on two new villages, winning landmark planning appeals and adding new sites. At the same time, our residents and existing villages remain a core focus as we continue to extend and improve many of our villages, helping to deliver and support thriving communities.”