Chandlers promotes James Armsby to associate director
Chandlers has promoted James Armsby to associate director.
Armsby joined the estate agency in August 2025.
The promotion is part of Chandlers’ ongoing strategic plan to expand its operations in Hertfordshire.
David Murray, managing director of Chandlers, commented: “James has been a real asset to the business. His knowledge, professionalism and approach align perfectly with our values, and this promotion reflects both the contribution he has already made and the confidence we have in his future at Chandlers.”
Armsby added: “Our focus on integrity, proactive service and strong relationships is what makes us different, and I’m proud to be part of that journey.”
Websters appoints new head of sales
Norfolk estate agency Websters has appointed Jonathan Weeks as head of sales for its new Signature by Websters luxury property division.
Weeks brings more than 15 years of experience in the Norfolk property market, along with a decade in London’s prime sector.
He said: “Norfolk has an incredibly strong prime market, and sellers are increasingly looking for expertise, discretion and strategy rather than volume-led agency. Signature by Websters allows us to offer a refined service that truly reflects the quality of the homes we represent.”
Nick Maclean becomes RICS president for 2026
Nick Maclean has officially become the 144th president of the Royal Institution of Chartered Surveyors (RICS).
Maclean brings 30 years’ experience at CBRE including being chair of CBRE Middle East and North Africa Region and seven years as a Scottish Trade Envoy. He has also been an active member of RICS for over 20 years serving on governing council and is a former chair.
He assumes the position of president having held the role of acting president since March 2025. Over the last three years the RICS has undergone significant transformation, at the heart of which has been improving the member experience.
While committing to continuing this momentum into 2026, Maclean and the leadership team will be focusing on the four key areas to its members: Skills, Homes & Infrastructure, Sustainability & Resilience, and Data & Technology.
Maclean, said: “It is one of the proudest achievements of my career to serve as president of the RICS, an organisation with such an incredible history and is synonymous with our industry. It’s such an exciting time for the RICS as it evolves to meet the fundamental reshaping of real estate driven by technology and sustainability and profound social, cultural and geoeconomic shifts. The role of the RICS as both an industry and consumer-facing organisation has never been more important.”
“Central to this work will be a focus on lifelong learning with RICS ensuring support for everyone who wishes to practice in our profession from fourteen to retirement and beyond. We know that persistent skills shortages across the built environment will increasingly constrain delivery which is why we must build and maintain a robust pipeline of talent whilst elevating the importance of professional standards in the public interest.”
“The housing crisis remains one of the most critical issues facing our Government and the country, with planning reform and accelerated delivery necessitating increasing reliance on professional advisors around land, viability, valuation, development and risk.
“2026 will see an acceleration in transition from net zero ambition to delivery, putting more pressure on professional expertise to manage climate risk, retrofit, resilience and long term value in the built and natural environment.
“Finally, permeating the full spectrum of the industry, the digital revolution will continue apace, with advances in AI, Data and digital tools changing the way and speed at which the sector operates. Professional standards, integrity and judgement in its application in the public interest is central to how we embrace change.”
RICS chief executive officer, Justin Young, added: “I’ve really enjoyed working alongside Nick over the course of 2025 and I’m delighted to see him take up the reigns of the RICS Presidency for 2026. While headquartered in London, our membership illustrates we are a truly global organisation which is reflected in Nick’s own career with his considerable experience of working in various international markets.
“He has held a number of roles with the RICS over 20 years and knows the organisation inside out. Nick also shares our passion for addressing skills shortages, promoting best sustainability practice and embracing new technologies in the best interests of our members and consumers.
“2026 promises to be a big and exciting year for RICS and our members and we are in a strong place to address the challenges which lie ahead and accelerate the change and momentum gained over the last two years.”
Susanne Eickerman-Riepe FRICS becomes the senior vice president (SVP) of RICS for 2026, commencing her term on 1 January 2026. RICS fellow Maureen Ehrenberg becomes president elect following her service as senior vice president in 2025.