Update from Richard Collins, Interim CEO — December 2022

Nearing the end of the calendar year, our thoughts are often pulled in two directions at once, reflecting both on what has been achieved as well as looking forward to what the next twelve months has in store.

On that topic, I am pleased to update members that the critical components of the Bichard RICS Review’s phase one recommendations have been implemented, with eight out of 36 total recommendations completed since June 2022. This includes important work in the public interest to strengthen the independence of the regulation of our profession with a new framework that reaffirms the Standards and Regulation Board’s exclusive responsibility for regulatory functions.

Members will also be aware of the importance that the review’s recommendations place on further embedding transparency, accountability and clear communication with members into the Institution’s workings. Therefore I am further pleased to share a roadmap showing forthcoming milestones for the delivery of the Review’s recommendation over the next 12-13 months, in line with the pledges Governing Council has made to achieve this vital transformation of RICS as a member-led institution with public interest at its heart.

In the coming months there are going to be multiple opportunities for members to get more involved in the Institution’s governance. The first opportunities arise on the specialist panels that are being established for sustainability and diversity, equity and inclusion under our new structure. We will shortly start recruiting Chairs and member representatives for the Sustainability and DEI Panels — check rics.org for information on how to apply later this week.

Another aspect emphasised by the Review was that RICS must be equipped to lead on the issues that matter, and there can scarcely be an issue of greater existential importance that that of climate change. At the recent gathering of global leaders at COP 27 in Egypt, RICS was active at the talks, leading collaboration and conversation on practical measures.

I am also pleased to share that the new RICS Assessment Platform will be available from Monday 12 December. Following the suspension of the Assessment Resource Centre (ARC) in August 2021, we have been developing and testing the new system extensively, taking the opportunity to add features that will create a smooth professional experience for everyone using the platform. If you are one of our valued candidates, assessors or counsellors, I encourage you to explore the new functionality and update your details from next Monday.  

Finally, while recent reform means that the Presidential year will run in alignment with the calendar year henceforth, I want to take the opportunity now and in advance of the AGM to thank Clement Lau FRICS for his service as President. In a year that has seen many fundamental changes brought forward, Clement’s calm and far-sighted leadership has been a great source of strength for everyone committed in securing a resilient and sustainable future for the Institution’s support for the profession in the public interest. Members may register for the AGM here, and I look forward to seeing as many of you as possible take part.