RICS this week announced the inauguration of its new presidential team, with the election of Malaysian-born See Lian Ong FRICS as its first ever non-British President for 2011/12. See Lian will replace the outgoing Robert Peto FRICS in a move which reaffirms the organisation’s increasingly international role as the world’s leading qualification for property professionals.

The inauguration also marks the appointment of another non-British RICS Fellow, Martin Bruehl FRICS, a leading figure in the German property industry. Martin is Managing Partner of Cushman & Wakefield in Germany and has been nominated as one of three Vice Presidents. Martin will be joined by Louise Brooke-Smith FRICS and Chris Fossick FRICS, the two other newly-appointed RICS Vice Presidents.

Commenting on his nomination, Martin said:
“I am delighted and very proud to be able to serve as Vice President in the Leadership Team of RICS. As an ambassador of the Institution, my aim will be to focus on the promotion of RICS valuation standards and model of professional self-regulation across the globe. It’s an honour to take on this role and play a part in raising standards across all industry sectors to ensure that the property profession continues to contribute to a vibrant global economy.”

In addition, Alan Collett FRICS will take office as President Elect, while Michael Newey FRICS has been appointed Senior Vice President. Bill Gater FRICS has replaced Alex Baird as RICS Honorary Treasurer and Rob Mahoney will continue in his role of RICS Honorary Secretary.

Elections for the new presidential team were held at the RICS Governing Council Meeting last March. The successful candidates will now set about leading the development of the organisation’s global vision and strategy, along with the 60-strong Governing Council.

Commenting, RICS President See Lian Ong FRICS said:
“I am extremely honoured to be inaugurated as the 130th President of the RICS and the first non-British President of the Institution. My inauguration speaks loud and clear of RICS’ commitment to delivering the highest standards in land, property and construction within a global context.

“During my tenure I will look to build on the tremendous work of my predecessor, Robert Peto. I will also work with Governing Council to focus the organisation’s energies on developing and maintaining standards in the areas where the public demand them most; including construction cost and carbon measurement, programme management, valuation, agency and brokerage, strategic asset management and land markets.”