Policy director Ian Fletcher has announced his intention to retire in March next year following more than 22 years at the British Property Federation.
Fletcher joined the BPF in 2002 following eight years at the British Chambers of Commerce, where he was head of policy and chief economist.
During his time at the BPF he has been at the heart of the property sector’s engagement with government and played a central role as rental homes emerged as an institutional asset class alongside the traditional office, retail and industrial sectors.
The BPF says his early work included protecting the sector from a manifesto commitment to regulate commercial leases, and engagement with the first Barker Review which offered support for REITs.
In 2012, Fletcher was a contributor to the Montague Review, a report commissioned by then Housing Minister Grant Shapps that looked at how to remove the barriers to long-term investment in purpose-designed homes for rent.
The report’s recommendations were adopted by government and it is widely seen as the catalyst for the birth of the build-to-rent sector, which today encompasses more than 260,000 homes.
Fletcher said in a statement: "I have been incredibly lucky to do a job I have loved for the past 22 years. I have been proud to represent the property sector and help lift people’s eyes from the pavement to see the positive impact our industry can have on our towns, cities and everyday lives.
"I have had the pleasure of working with immensely talented and dedicated people – colleagues, members, parliamentarians, civil servants and other stakeholders – and I look forward to continuing many of these relationships over the coming months as the BPF helps shape the reform of the planning system which can unlock huge value for communities across the country and underpin our future economic and social prosperity."
He will remain in post until March 2025 and will continue to play a key role as the BPF works with government to shape the Renters’ Rights Bill and reform of the planning system.
The BPF also said Fletcher has been influential in the quality rental sector, championing consumer protection measures which led to agents having to have client money protection, and the student codes, a set of guidelines that improve the quality and safety of student housing.
Melanie Leech, chief executive, BPF, described his contribution to the property sector and the BPF as "extraordinary". "He has worked tirelessly with countless politicians, policy-makers and stakeholders to help shape thinking, regulation and policy affecting the built environment," she added.
"He has been a support, friend and mentor to the BPF’s members and staff over the years and always set the highest standards for himself and others to aspire to. He is a true stalwart of our industry."