• Mark Sadler joins as Group General Counsel
  • Daren Little is appointed as IT Director
  • Group Sales Director, Sian Hammer joins from Sunrise Senior Living

Audley Group, the UK’s leading provider of retirement villages, is today announcing three strategic hires to strengthen its senior leadership team. The group, who recently announced a landmark deal with BlackRock Real Assets, is on a mission to create appropriate retirement living accommodation by addressing the chronic under-supply across the UK market.

As Group General Counsel, Mark Sadler will lead the legal function for Audley Group and advise on transactions, operations, compliance and governance which will support the business’ growth ambitions. Mark joins from Intu Properties plc, where he was a Senior Legal Counsel advising on M&A, joint ventures and financing. His previous experience includes delivering the Olympic programme during the London 2012 Games at Westfield Stratford City, and over a decade in real estate with leading law firm Ashurst and Nabarro (now CMS).

Daren Little as IT Director will be responsible for the development and delivery of the Audley technology strategy and oversee the development of a high-performance technological infrastructure across the group. During his 18 years’ at a global distribution company, Daren has honed extensive experience of leading large-scale IT Transformational projects, including M&A activities.

Both Daren and Mark will report directly to Chief Financial Officer, Gary Burton.

Sian Hammer is a highly experienced Sales Director having worked in a variety of roles delivering organic and acquisitive growth. As Group Sales Director for Audley, Sian will lead the sales functions across Audley and Mayfield Villages and report to Managing Director, Paul Morgan. With over 25 years in the healthcare and property sales industries, Sian brings with her a wealth of sector knowledge and insight.

Nick Sanderson, Chief Executive Officer said:

“We are thrilled to be announcing these new appointments to our senior team, each of whom I know will make a tremendous impact on our business. Mark and Daren will be instrumental in shaping the governance and internal infrastructures across our business as we enter our next phase of growth. Our strategy is driven by a keen focus on the long-term health and wellbeing of our customers and as we look for future partners to share in this vision, Mark and Daren’s expertise will be invaluable. Sian’s deep knowledge of our sector will be instrumental in driving sales growth across our Audley Villages and Mayfield Villages brands. Her passion for tailoring solutions to suit the evolving needs of the UK’s ageing population will be integral to our continued success as the market leading retirement living developer and operator.”

Audley Group has a portfolio of 20 villages across both luxury and mid-priced models. Accessible to both property owners and the neighbouring communities once lockdown rules allow, the villages offer extensive leisure facilities including a library, restaurant and bar, swimming pool and health club, with flexible support services including care available.