RICS appoints new CEO

The Royal Institute of Chartered Surveyors (RICS) has announced the appointment of Justin Young as chief executive officer.

Young is set to join the institute on July 5 and and has been appointed by the body’s governing council to “continue to lead the transformation of RICS”.

Over the last 25 years, he has accrued experience within the real estate and professional services sector, having spent time in the UK, Europe, and South East Asia.

Young was previously chief operating officer at real estate consultancy Knight Frank, and has also held positions in the military, leading a tank troop during Operation Desert Storm in the 1990s.

Justin Young said: “I am really pleased to have been appointed into the role of RICS CEO. The opportunity to lead an organisation whose work is pivotal to the public interest, to a huge body of professionals, millions of clients and a host of decision makers globally is truly unique.

“I feel highly energised by this opportunity to drive further strategic, cultural, and operational, change to RICS – providing the right environment in which members reap the benefits of thought leadership and influence, professional development, and unparalleled networks.”

Martin Samworth, Chair of RICS Board, added: “Justin is the ideal candidate for this role. As an established leader in real estate he understands our work and the scale of what we deliver in the built and natural environment – but he also has the diversity of skills and leadership experience to continue RICS’ journey as we drive our sustainability and diversity agenda.

“Justin’s background in transforming teams and organisations is key to driving forward our agenda alongside our members and boards input and expertise.  I look forward to working with him to achieve our strategic goals and to drive RICS transformation with staff and with members.”