The invention relates to a method of making Group 3 and Group 4 mixed metal oxide catalyst suitable for the decomposition of ethers to alkenes and alkanols. In an embodiment, it relates to a method of making a cerium-zirconium mixed metal oxide catalyst. In an embodiment, the catalyst made by the process of the invention is used for the production of isopropanol (IPA) from isopropyl ether (IPE).