Aviv Group Announces Leadership Changes: New CEO Appointed

Aviv Group, controlled by Doron Aviv and Dafna Harlev, announced today (Sunday) the appointment of Itay Vaknin as CEO of the group, effective January 1, 2027. As part of the organizational restructuring, Dafna Harlev, who currently serves as CEO, will transition to the role of co-chair alongside Doron Aviv.

Vaknin, a certified accountant by training, returns to Aviv Group after serving there from 2017 to 2024 as CFO and Deputy CEO. During that period, he was a partner in key strategic moves, including the sale and share allocation deal of the subsidiary Aviv Yozum to Melisron, as well as significant fundraising from institutional bodies. His deep familiarity with the company's operations, its people, and its organizational DNA, alongside his managerial and financial experience, form a strong basis for his new role.

In his most recent position, Vaknin served as CFO of Mabanee Real Estate, one of Israel's largest public real estate companies. He managed the group's financial division and was a key partner in leading significant business operations.

Itay Vaknin, incoming CEO of Aviv Group. Credit: PR

Aviv Group notes that Vaknin's return is intended to drive the company's continued growth and operational expansion, with an emphasis on the residential sector, alongside the development of the energy sector as a new field of activity. The group is currently promoting a series of projects, including Herbert Samuel SIX-8 on the Tel Aviv seashore, Aviv Park in the new Ramat Efal, and the Aviv BaTzameret project in Petah Tikva, while exploring additional business opportunities in high-demand areas across the country.

Doron Aviv, Chairman of the Board, and Dafna Harlev, the incoming co-chair, stated:

"Itay Vaknin's appointment comes at a significant stage for the group. We are happy about his return and are confident that he is the right person to lead its operations in the next phase. We believe his experience will help advance the group in the coming years, and we wish him great success in his role."

Itay Vaknin, the incoming CEO, expressed his gratitude for the selection:

"Aviv Group is a professional home for me, and I am happy to return and lead it during a significant period of growth and development. I look forward to working with the management team and employees to promote our business goals, expand operations, and continue the company's growth."