Property developer Chris Stewart has been appointed chairman of the Scottish Property Federation (SPF).

Stewart, founder and chief executive of Chris Stewart Group, succeeded Winchburgh Developments chief John Hamilton, who stepped down after a year in the role at the SPF’s Annual Dinner last night.

SPF, the trade body representing Scotland’s £6 billion commercial real estate industry, said it will work closely with Stewart in promoting “the benefits of Scotland’s real estate industry to the government, outlining the role it has to play in supporting the economy and driving growth”.

Paul Curran, managing director of Quartermile, will become the SPF’s new vice chairman, taking on the role vacated by Chris Stewart.

SPF director, David Melhuish, said: “I am delighted to welcome Chris as our new chairman.

“His experience in carrying out large-scale, complex regeneration projects will be invaluable as we work with government to shape the policy landscape over the coming year.

“Since the Scottish Referendum there have been a number of significant policy changes that affect the real estate industry, and with the Scottish Parliamentary elections next year, there will no doubt be more to come.

“We look forward to working with Chris to further ensure the growth and success of our industry.”

Stewart said: “I am honoured to accept the role of chairman, and look forward to working with David, Paul and the team over an important 12 months both for Scotland’s economy and the property sector’s place within it.

“Scotland’s real estate industry is a vital contributor to the economy.

“That said, the economic reality is that building new homes, hotels and much needed office accommodation relies increasingly on international capital funding.

“If Scotland is to attract such capital in a competitive market our planning, tax and policy frameworks must all work to one cohesive vision.

“I look forward to promoting the benefits of supporting the industry to government and taking up the challenge to help drive further economic development in Scotland’s towns and cities.”