Kay Cox is stepping down this week as chief executive of Signature Senior Lifestyle, a provider of luxury assisted living, nursing, respite and dementia care.

Cox joined Signature as chief operating officer in 2018, becoming chief executive in 2023.

Chief financial officer Steve Gardner has been appointed interim chief executive as the process to appoint a new chief executive gets under way.

Signature stated that Cox has decided to move back to her family home in the north of England and is looking to continue her career in that region, adding: “We’re incredibly grateful for Kay’s significant contribution to getting Signature to this point and she parts ways with us on great terms. We wish her all the best for a new challenge in the sector.

Cox said: “I’ve been lucky enough to work with an exceptional executive team and passionate colleagues who have ensured Signature has always been at the forefront of providing the best possible care combined with a focus on wellness and later living lifestyle. I am immensely proud of what we have achieved together, and I know the organisation will continue to go from strength to strength in the coming years.

Gardner added: “On behalf of everyone connected to Signature, I would like to thank Kay for the contribution she has made to Signature over the last six years and for the passion and commitment she has always brought to the role.

“I look forward to working with the wider executive team as we continue our focus on being the premier senior living brand in the UK, delivering further sector-first innovations, and developing our exceptional new homes.”