Mark Hayward to leave NAEA Propertymark

Mark Hayward, chief executive of NAEA Propertymark, is planning to retire from the company at the end of the year to seek new challenges.

Hayward been in the role for seven years, having previously been a board member and chair of the board for four years.

Christopher Hamer, executive chair of Propertymark, said: “The Propertymark board would like to thank Mark for his significant contribution over many years to NAEA and the development of Propertymark as a brand.

“He has been the first port of call for both media and government departments seeking to understand how the property sector works and the implications of emerging legislation for the sector.

“He has also, importantly, engaged fully with members, advising them about new laws and supporting them through the many changes and difficult times, not the least during the Covid-19 lockdown, that the sector has experienced. And as  chairman, I offer my personal best wishes.”

After rebranding in 2017 and adopting both NAEA Propertymark and ARLA Propertymark, the board has decided to move towards a single Propertymark structure.

As such it is now looking to appoint a chief executive for Propertymark Ltd, with the successful candidate starting in 2021.

During his time at Propertymark Hayward has represented the company on a range of issues to the government and the media, as he recently advocated for business rate relief for estate agents and the inclusion of commission within furlough calculations to support members impacted by Covid-19.

He was an integral part of the Regulation of Property Agents Working Group, which was formed by MHCLG and chaired by Lord Best, to advise government on how to regulate property agents.

Hayward said: “I’ve loved leading an organisation that spans so many important issues; housing really is at the heart of everything and it’s been a real pleasure to represent the industry.

“I am ready for new challenges. I want to thank colleagues and members for all their support over the years and look forward to seeing Propertymark as it evolves in a new era of regulation.”