The Royal Institution of Chartered Surveyors (RICS) has appointed Chartered surveyor, Emily Knowles, to Chair its regional networking and support body in Birmingham.
Known as RICS Matrics in Birmingham, the group look after the interest of professionals entering or not long in the profession of surveying and help shape the future of the profession, by working with local schools and colleges to raise awareness of the various careers available in the land, property and construction sectors.
Working alongside the wider Matrics committee, Emily, a surveyor based at Birmingham property advisers, Vail Williams LLP, takes over the role as Chair from Gemma Butler of St Modwen.
Speaking of her appointment, Emily said: “I’m delighted to take on the position as Chair of RICS Matrics in Birmingham. I’ve been increasingly involved with the organisation and have always found it to be forward thinking, challenging and nurturing of its professionals, so I’m looking forward to continuing this across the Midlands.”
Emily will be responsible for spearheading the organisation’s programme to support local professionals and those wanting to enter the profession through a variety of training and engagement events, including charity fundraisers in support of the RICS Pledge150 campaign.
As part of its 150th anniversary year, RICS has pledged to provide 150 bed spaces for young people at risk of homelessness in association with the leading youth homelessness charity, LandAid. RICS Matrics in Birmingham has committed to help the West Midlands fund eleven bed spaces to contribute to the cause.
“I’m looking forward to working with the committee, local schools and colleges to inspire the next generation of surveyors, whilst also playing a role in Pledge150,” concluded Emily.
Chris Cave, Vail Williams’ regional managing partner for the Midlands, said: “We’d like to congratulate Emily on this deserved appointment. Having been Vice Chair for the past 9 months, and with involvement in the wider committee whilst based at our Hampshire and Surrey offices, Emily is well placed to take up the role, and we wish her every success.”
RICS Regional Director, Victoria Hampson, commented: “Emily’s commitment to inspiring the next generation will be extremely beneficial to the local surveying community. By placing this at the heart of all she does, her dedication will drive the profession forward. RICS Matrics is not only a networking and support group for local surveying students and trainees, but the pipeline of talent for the future of our profession, and I am confident Emily will ensure the Birmingham committee continue to develop our talent.”