Update from Harriet Kemp, Chair, Nominations and Remuneration Committee (NRC) – May 2024

Shaping the future leadership of the profession through a transparent process that is enhanced by member engagement and feedback is a core objective for RICS. The Nominations and Remuneration Committee (NRC), which includes RICS members, oversees the elections process for both our Governing Council (our highest governing body) and the Senior Vice President (SVP). The RICS Senior Vice President is a critical role, serving a 12-month term before progressing to President Elect and then President – at which point they also take on the role of chairing Governing Council.

We have recently opened applications for the next RICS SVP, open until 17 June and will be starting the elections process to fill 11 Governing Council seats next month. This is a major opportunity for our global membership to get involved and play a vital role in delivering RICS’ strategic vision to achieve a built and natural environment that is sustainable, resilient and inclusive for all.

Based on feedback received in the last 6-9 months, the election processes for each campaign have undergone a review to make it easier than ever for members to apply and stand for election. For the more significant question of which cohort (Governing Council or the entire membership) elects RICS SVPs in future, this will be included as part of the next independent review in 2025. Until then the election of the RICS SVP will remain with Governing Council, but this could change following the outcome of this review.

Transparency is key to fostering trust among our members. The NRC has implemented measures to enhance this throughout the election process. For the SVP campaign currently live, this includes:

• clear communication of timelines
• using an independent search consultancy to ensure independence of the process
• having rigorous assessments for candidates in place
• doing due diligence on candidates, which includes membership and regulatory checks
• a shortlisting panel comprising members, our Senior Independent Governor Liz Peace CBE, and myself.

You can read more by visiting our dedicated web page and the elections processes are covered in the Standing Orders.

I invite and encourage all eligible RICS members to help in shaping our future by applying to be our next SVP or standing for election to the Governing Council. Both offer exceptional opportunities to progress your career while contributing to the governance and strategic direction of our Institution.