Savills plc has announced changes in the leadership of Savills Investment Management (Savills IM). Alex Jeffrey, Chief Executive Officer of Savills IM, will conclude his operational management duties at the end of June 2026 after seven years in the role. Jeffrey will continue to support Savills IM as a Senior Advisor, focusing on nurturing key client relationships and strategic expansion initiatives.
Effective from 1 July 2026, Michael Neal will assume the position of Interim CEO. Neal, currently Global Chief Investment Officer (CIO) of Savills IM, joined Savills IM in January 2025 from Nuveen, where he served as CIO and Head of Funds Management. His expertise in international real estate, accumulated over 30 years, has been utilised since his arrival in early 2025 to establish close relationships within the Savills Group. He will retain his role as Global CIO.
Additionally, it was announced that Alex Griffiths will join Savills IM in September. Griffiths previously served as Managing Director and Head of Investor Relations at AEW Europe. During her nearly 13 years at AEW Europe, she was responsible for capital raising, client relationship management, project management, investor services, and marketing and communications. Under her leadership, capital commitments exceeding EUR 30 billion were generated for various investment vehicles.
Strategic Development and Growth
Over the past seven years, under Alex Jeffrey’s leadership, Savills IM has developed into a globally active, integrated real estate investment manager. The service portfolio was enhanced by the real estate debt expertise of DRC Capital. A strategic partnership with Samsung Life Insurance was also established. During this period, capital commitments totalling GBP 12 billion were raised. Assets under Management increased by more than 40 percent to approximately GBP 23 billion, even amidst the volatile international real estate markets at the time.
Statements from Leadership
Simon Shaw, Group Chief Executive of Savills plc, acknowledged Alex Jeffrey's contributions. He highlighted Jeffrey's significant role over the last seven years in strengthening the company and expanding relationships with institutional investors worldwide. Shaw expressed his gratitude on behalf of the Board and the entire Savills Group for Jeffrey's dedication and his pleasure regarding Jeffrey's future role as Senior Advisor and his support for the transition to Michael Neal. He emphasised that Michael Neal, with his track record, is ideally positioned to drive the company's continued development.
Alex Jeffrey stated that it had been a privilege to lead Savills IM and work with the global team. He spoke of a successful transformation and strengthening of the platform, an expansion of investment expertise, and the establishment of a strong track record with institutional investors worldwide. Jeffrey emphasised that the company has significant capital commitments and is well-positioned for the next phase of growth. He looked forward to handing over the transition to Michael Neal and supporting him in his new role.
