The Davis Companies Succession Plan Elevates Stephen Davis to CEO; Jonathan to Chairman

BOSTON — The Davis Companies has completed a long-planned leadership transition, marking a new chapter for the real estate investment firm after more than six years of succession planning.

Jonathan Davis is stepping down as chief executive officer and will move into the role of executive chairman, the company announced. Stephen Davis, who has served as president since 2021, will assume the CEO position effective April 1.

In his new role, Jonathan Davis will remain closely involved in the firm’s strategic direction. He will continue advising the executive team and supporting key areas, including investor engagement, deal sourcing, financing, and transaction execution. He will also retain his seat on the investment committee of the firm’s DIV Funds.

“I have great pride and confidence in Stephen, both professionally and personally,” Jonathan Davis said, calling the transition a significant milestone for the company. He added that he is “enormously gratified by his success.”

Davis emphasized that he believes the leadership change positions the firm to maintain its agility and culture. “I firmly believe he is the right person to ensure we remain a nimble company,” he said, pointing to the entrepreneurial approach and high standards that have driven the company’s growth over the past five decades.

“With Stephen at the helm,” he added, “I am confident that our firm is well-positioned to achieve even greater success going forward.”

Stephen Davis described the transition as both an honor and the culmination of years of preparation. “I am honored to assume this new role and to lead the opening of a new chapter in the history of our firm,” he said.

He noted that the transition had been carefully planned over time, with support from leadership, investors, and colleagues across the organization. “We have had the good fortune of having been able to plan for, and work towards, this transition over the course of many years,” he said.

Stephen Davis also emphasized continuity in the firm’s approach and culture. He said he is confident in the team’s ability to build on its longstanding track record. “With the sustained support of my father, our investors, and my entire team,” he said, “I have no doubt in our ability to continue building upon the standards of excellence that have defined our work.”

Looking ahead, he pointed to the company’s workforce as a key strength. “We have the best team in the industry,” he said. “I am excited to lead Davis alongside them in our next phase of growth.”

Stephen Davis joined the company more than 16 years ago and has held several leadership roles. As president, he has overseen operations across the firm’s vertically integrated platform and played a central role in shaping its investment and execution strategies—responsibilities he is expected to continue as CEO.

The Davis Companies has invested in $13.5 billion in gross asset value through real estate equity, debt, and fixed-income securities. Davis owns a real estate portfolio of approximately 12.4 million square feet of healthcare and life science, industrial, retail, office, and hospitality properties, and more than 5,700 residential units across the United States.

Stephen Davis

Jonathan Davis

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