Formerly regional account manager for RICS Scotland, Gail took on the position in early August following the departure of Sarah Speirs, who has joined the RICS UK executive team as director of UK communications and external affairs.

Gail Hunter said: “I am delighted to be appointed during what is a very important time for the industry in Scotland and throughout the UK. We will continue to working closely with stakeholders, RICS professionals and the Scottish Government to ensure we can meet the needs of the built environment in Scotland.

“We will also continue to work with our partner universities and education providers to help inspire the next generation and look at ways to address the growing skills gap within the industry. As part of this agenda, RICS as an organisation is leading the way in promoting diversity and inclusion with the recent launch of our Inclusive Employer Quality Mark, with over 100 organisations signed up already.”

The Quality Mark puts RICS at the heart of the profession leading on rewarding and sharing best practice, and recognising the work of firms of whatever size who are striving towards creating a fully inclusive work force for our sector.

Archie Rintoul FRICS took over as chairman in June 2016 and has been involved with RICS for many years, having sat on the Valuation Professional Group Board for over fifteen years. He was instrumental in the formation of the Compensation and Compulsory Purchase Forum, compulsory purchase being an area in which he has worked throughout his professional career.

Archie has also worked in the affordable housing field for many years and was a member of the RICS Scotland Housing Commission, which reported in 2014. In his role as chairman, Archie will work closely with RICS policy department to ensure housing issues in Scotland are at the forefront of the political agenda.

RICS put forward a number of recommendations to the new Scottish Government ahead of May’s elections, including a number related to improving Scotland’s housing supply and delivery targets.