Liven Communities has appointed hospitality executive Andrea Richards as its first Chief Executive Officer, signalling a hotel-grade service ethos for the over-50s land lease operator.
Andrea brings more than a decade in Australia’s luxury accommodation sector, most recently as COO at Salter Brothers Hospitality following its 2022 acquisition of Spicers Retreats.
At Spicers/Salter Brothers, Andrea helped expand the portfolio to 20 luxury hotels and retreats, 35 restaurants and 1,000-plus staff, overseeing guest experience, commercial performance, ESG, strategy and compliance – anchored in authenticity and service excellence.
“I’m passionate about creating communities where people don’t just live, but truly thrive,” Andrea said. “At Liven, we are reimagining over-50s living – thoughtful design, premium amenities and a strong sense of belonging. We want residents to feel connected, inspired and part of something meaningful.”
Backed by GreenFort and Gaw Capital, Liven launched in June last year with an $800 million platform and an initial goal of 1,200 homes. That ambition has since lifted to 3,000 land lease homes over the next five years. Richards’ appointment comes as the first residents prepare to move into Liven Beach Road, Hervey Bay next month. Sales continue to perform at Liven Willow Rise in Southside (Gympie), with an official launch for Coastline, Elliott Heads slated before Christmas, and the sales launch for Carabella, Gowrie Junction (Toowoomba) scheduled for 2026.
“Andrea’s hospitality leadership and customer-centric mindset align perfectly with our goal for Liven Communities to be a market leader in creating exceptional experiences,” said Adam Vaggelas, GreenFort Capital Partner and Liven Communities Co-Founder.
“Our aim is to build places where residents don’t just downsize – they upgrade into enriched, connected and meaningful communities.”
