A NatWest Bank manager has become the first banker to be elected chairman of a city’s property association in its 95-year history.
Steve Cripps, 58, a vastly experienced SME Relationship Manager for the NatWest Bank in Fareham, takes over the association’s reins from Danny Smith of independent financial advisers ADN Financial Solutions in Southsea.
The newly-appointed chairman is keen to drive the Association forward as its centenary year approaches.
He said: “As we move towards our centenary year in 2020 my aim is to ensure the PPA continues to grow – from the present number of 145 members.
“I am acutely aware of the prestige and responsibility this role entails and I am determined that the highest level of integrity is maintained.”
Steve is keen to promote the ethos of the Association which brings together local estate agents, letting agents, property valuers, solicitors and bankers into one recognised professional body.
“As the property market continues to flourish the PPA can play an invaluable role because it brings together so many industry professionals under one roof.
“Our ongoing aim is to assist clients, both personal and commercial, in all aspects of their journey into property ownership and to make this as smooth as possible.
“Portsmouth and the surrounding post code area continues to flourish and, with the upcoming America’s Cup yacht races, this can only be tremendous news for this great city.”
Steve, who is single with an aspiring musician son aged 24, is Fareham born and bred and has worked for Nat West for more than 40 years.
Steve’s nominated charity for this year is the New Blendworth Centre, a day centre for young adults with learning disabilities based in Horndean. The PPA has raised upwards of £75,000 for local charities over the years.
The association promotes and maintains the highest professional ethics and integrity amongst its members in the property services industry but also aims to create a positive image of the city and the surrounding area and encourage inward investment.The PPA seeks to influence decisions concerning our working environment and promote a business case for commercial and residential property throughout the Portsmouth area.
