Gemma Begbie, a senior project manager with Turner+Townsend based in Edinburgh, and Harry Browne, a director with HD Property Consultants based in Glasgow, have been shortlisted for the Mentor of the Year award in the prestigious RICS Matrics Young Surveyor of the Year 2019 awards.

Ten surveyors from around the UK have been shortlisted in the category, with the winner to be announced in London on November 28.

The Mentor of the Year category seeks to recognise those who have made a significant contribution towards mentoring the young talent that is so important to the development of the profession and to the land, property and construction sectors.

Gemma and Harry were nominated by their peers and shortlisted by judges based in the mentoring they have undertaken, their impact on individuals, and the extent to which they have been a positive role model for young surveyors.

Harry’s nomination said that after many years in the construction industry, he will leave behind a lasting legacy to all who worked with him, of professionalism, trustworthiness, empathy and leadership.

Gemma’s nomination said that she is a true inspiration and her passion for developing others and her willingness to share skills and expertise makes her a well-respected surveyor and role model.

There are 10 category awards up for grabs, across various surveying disciplines in the annual YSOTY awards.

The overall ‘UK Young Surveyor of the Year’ title is awarded to the category winner who has not only achieved a high level of success in their respective role and sector, but also demonstrates an unwavering commitment to inspire and support future talent and advance the industry and wider surveying profession.

Last year the ‘UK Young Surveyor of the Year’ title went to Laura Collins, an associate mechanical and electrical (M&E) quantity surveyor at Rider Levett Bucknall (RLB) in London.

Head of the judging panel, Natasha Tyler of Powell Williams, and chair of the RICS UK Matrics Board - a networking and support group for young surveyors - said: “I am delighted to see this year’s shortlist includes a healthy mix of diverse talent who are going above and beyond to ensure their talent and expertise has a significant and positive impact on our communities and the wider property industry.

“Many of the shortlisted individuals have achieved remarkable career opportunities and progression through delivering outstanding results, quality customer service and leading innovative initiatives and activities to help improve the industry or encourage a more diverse and inclusive workforce. This makes them fantastic ambassadors of the profession.”

The winners will be announced at a black-tie ceremony on 28 November at the five-star Royal Garden Hotel in Kensington, London, and the ceremony will be hosted by TV presenter and Invictus Games medallist, JJ Chalmers.