Robert Chapman, director of Robert Chapman & Company Limited, has been appointed as the new chair of the South East Wales Local Association of the Royal Institution of Chartered Surveyors.

With nearly 25 years experience as a chartered surveyor, Robert set up his own Cardiff-based consultancy in 2001 specialising in commercial property consultancy, especially the relationship between property and business and how it can make a difference to the bottom line, regeneration work for the public, private and third sectors; and finally investment / development work.

In the early part of his career, he worked as a land agent for The Severn Trent Water Authority and the National Trust, before moving into the commercial sector working for the Welsh Development Agency and Grimley International.

The South East Wales Local Association supports local RICS members by providing advice on education and careers, awards, event, professional development and PR. Members also meet regularly to discuss the latest issues in property, land and the environment.

Speaking about his appointment, Robert said: “Membership of the RICS has helped me enormously over the last 25 years and this is my opportunity to give something back. There is no doubt that we are working in interesting times and it seems to me that now, more than ever, surveyors need to have a positive attitude, build relationships and have good communication skills – attributes that I will promote in my new role. I would also like to see surveyors doing more about climate change and sustainability as this is a top priority for the National Assembly in Wales and the wider community.”