Jeremy Richardson has stepped down as group chief executive of Runwood Homes after less than a year in the role.

Richardson, previously chief executive of Four Seasons Health Care and brighterkind, took up the post in July 2022.

Richardson was originally appointed as chief executive of brighterkind in 2014, following a career across professional services and in hospitality and leisure.

He assumed the role of chief executive of Four Seasons Health Care Group in late 2019, following the decision to merge the two residential care businesses in the group.

Runwood Homes’ founder and owner, Gordon Sanders, previously chairman of the group, will replace Richardson.

The change in leadership is part of a number of senior management changes made by Runwood following a recent strategic review.

Sanders said: “Following discussions over the past few weeks, it was clear that Jeremy and I saw the immediate priorities for the group slightly differently, and as a result Jeremy made the decision to step down as chief executive.”

Richardson commented: “I am very sorry to be leaving Runwood Homes, it’s a very strong business with an enviable record of sustained growth.  I would like to take this opportunity to wish Gordon and the rest of the Runwood team all the very best for the future.”