Long-serving estate agent Michael Clark who was former Royal Institution of Chartered Surveyors (RICS) president, has passed away.

Clark spent his career working for his family firm St John Smith in East Sussex, having joined the estate agency in 1950.

Clark, who served as RICS president from 1987-88, retired in 1992 – the same year, he became Master of the Worshipful Company of Chartered Surveyors.

RICS said in a statement: “It is with great sadness we announce the passing of our former RICS president, Michael Clark, on 12 November 2025. Michael was president from July 1987 to 1988.

“Michael started his career at his family’s firm, St John Smith, in East Sussex in 1950. Throughout his career, Michael held several influential positions that advanced the surveying profession. He served as chairman of the Fees Committee in 1974 and later of the Professional Practice Committee in 1979.

“While at the Professional Practice Committee, Michael worked on key initiatives, including introducing changes that allowed chartered surveyors to operate as LLCs. Michael also served on a law commission body that was instrumental in advising the government ahead of the introduction of the Administration of Justice Act in 1985. This created a new profession of licensed surveyors.

“Though Michael was president of the RICS from 1987 to 1988, his time with RICS began in 1972 when he was chosen to represent the Sussex branch on the General Council. He later served as honorary secretary to the institution from 1990 to 1993.

“After leaving RICS, Michael continued working at St John Smith until he retired in 1992. That same year, he became Master of the Worshipful Company of Chartered Surveyors, emphasising his continued dedication to advancing our profession.

“At the time of his passing, Michael was our longest-surviving former president. He will be remembered for his warmth, broad smile and integrity.”

Clark is survived by his three children: Nicola, Alizanne and Andrew.