AXA IM Alts has promoted Steijn Ribbens to chief executive officer of Kadans Science Partner.
Ribbens takes over from Michel Leemhuis who moves to the newly-created role of executive chair management committee.
In his new role, Ribbens, who has been with the business for 10 years, will take on the management of all day-to-day operating matters, in addition to the responsibilities of his current role as chief investment officer.
Leemhuis, who joined the firm in 2005, will now focus primarily on continuing to drive growth and managing key ecosystem stakeholders including occupiers, partners, educational establishments, as well as government and trade bodies.
John O’Driscoll, global co-head real estate at AXA IM Alts and chairman of Kadans’ supervisory committee, said: “Over the past five years, we have worked closely with Kadans’ management team to grow the business and cement its position as the market leader. We are extremely proud of what has been achieved, not just in terms of growth, but in the continual evolution and improvement of the product that we create.
“These management changes reflect the increased scale and sophistication of the business as well as our strong commitment for the continued expansion of Kadans’ portfolio and offering. We are very pleased to promote Steijn to CEO, who has been an integral part of that journey, freeing up Michel’s time to focus on growth and ensuring that we continue to contribute to build the ecosystems Kadans’ partners and clients value so highly.”
Leemhuis added: “I am excited to continue working with Steijn, with whom I have built a strong relationship over the past 10 years. Together, we will continue to focus on the further international expansion of Kadans and optimisation of our portfolio. We are exceptionally well positioned to further strengthen and expand our leading presence in the European market. I would also like to sincerely thank AXA IM Alts for the continued trust and confidence they have placed in us.”
Ribbens said: “I am honoured to take on the role of CEO at such an exciting moment in Kadans’ journey, having been at the forefront of setting up our international teams and making our first investments in new countries. Together with Michel, AXA IM Alts, and our dedicated team, we will continue to build on the strong foundations already in place, expanding our portfolio and delivering world-class environments where science and innovation can thrive. Our focus will remain on creating and supporting the ecosystems that enable our partners, clients and communities to push the boundaries of innovation.”
