RICS President Justin Sullivan calls to attract next generation at inauguration

On the evening of Thursday 16 January, Royal Institution of Chartered Surveyors (RICS) Fellow Justin Sullivan was inaugurated as the institution's 143rd President in its 157-year history.

The event, held at Church House in Westminster, saw the new president, joined by RICS representatives, family, friends, and the RICS team presented with his chain of office by former RICS President Tina Paillet. This was followed by Justin’s keynote speech outlining the institution's focus for 2025, as well as speeches by Dr Benita Mayhead, Derek Crampsie MRICS MCIArb, and former England Rugby and Lions international Simon Shaw MBE.

Justin is the founder and CEO of Adair, which has provided expert construction consultancy services globally for over thirty years.

In his speech, Justin talked about his humble origins and the opportunities afforded to him which enabled him to rise in his chosen profession.

"It is my turn to pay it forward”, he said.

The president noted the institution's progress in 2024, including a rise of around 1,000 members and RICS' pledge to the Chartered Surveyors' Bursary Programme.

UN-Habitat estimates that around 96,000 homes must be built every day to meet global housing demands until 2030. With skills shortages affecting the built environment across the globe, Justin placed skills and the development of the next generation as priorities for his time as President. A key part of achieving these goals in the built environment means attracting a new generation of professionals as well as those who wish to change careers.

"I see it as part of RICS’ responsibility to the public interest to show people; students in early education, and those in the later stages of their lives, that RICS is a home for anyone with the right attitude, drive, and ambition", he said.

Justin is also prioritising RICS members and the importance of recognising them for their work supporting the social good.

"Together, we will strengthen trust in our profession. We will attract a next generation of leaders, and we will ensure that the work you do—the impact you make—shines brightly for all to see", he said to the gathering.

On January 1, Maureen Ehrenberg FRICS became the Senior Vice President (SVP) of RICS for 2025, while RICS Fellow Nicholas Maclean became President Elect following his service as Senior Vice President in 2024.

-ENDS-

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