Today we’re opening applications as we search for our next RICS Senior Vice President (SVP), and I’d like to encourage all chartered members (MRICS/FRICS) who are passionate about the future of RICS to consider applying. Senior Vice President is a critical role at RICS, not just as part of the progression to President, but as a role in its own right. It offers great opportunities to broaden your network in the profession while contributing to the governance and strategic direction of the organisation. Through our robust and transparent election process, we're looking for someone ambitious and future-focused, with a deep understanding of our profession; the markets we operate in; and the opportunities for RICS to flourish and grow its influence. Find out more about the opportunity and apply here.

A key goal for RICS is to ensure that our leadership is appointed through a transparent and rigorous process. This year, we have introduced some changes which will strengthen the integrity of the election. These include a formal timeline for updates to the Governing Council, as well as significantly increased communication with the wider membership – all while maintaining the anonymity of the candidates. You can read more about the process, the enhancements and the future direction of the SVP election in Harriet Kemp, Chair of NRC and the Appointment Panel’s latest article.

A priority for our presidential team, now and in the coming years, is developing the skills of surveyors – whether they are new to the industry or expanding their skill set. To that end, in 2024 a comprehensive review of the Continuing Professional Development (CPD) framework was carried out by the CPD framework steering group. The Standards and Regulations Board (SRB) has now approved important changes that will help members maximise the value they get from their learning activity. Key updates include making CPD more relevant to your practice area, and the development of a new RICS member app. I want to thank all of you who contributed to the consultation on these changes – your perspectives have directly informed the new framework which will better support your lifelong learning, maintain professional standards, and uphold the public interest.

As we work to enhance skills and attract new talent to the profession, it’s important that we have a comprehensive, data-based understanding of the skills we’re lacking and the barriers to developing talent. For that reason, last week we launched our skills survey, which will take a deep dive into the current actual and perceived skills gaps, including global trends and regional differences. The survey has been designed to be simple to complete, and your feedback will help us to ensure current and future members are equipped to meet today’s and tomorrow’s requirements.  ​

This work to understand and further develop the skills of our profession will have global impact, enabling us to accelerate our work to upskill surveyors across the world. As an Institution we are committed to supporting professionals, established or new, through targeted knowledge-sharing, skills development, and the promotion of professional excellence. With members around the world and Matrics communities developing in markets with a high level of activity in the built environment, our work reaches almost every region of globe. Our global influence continues to grow as we progress on our journey to create a built and natural environment that is sustainable, resilient and inclusive for all.

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