THE Australian Property Institute is holding its 2020 National Board election. The API is urging members to cast their vote and help shape the future of the Institute. Robert van Raay is one of the candidates seeking to be elected to the national board of the API.
- What is your interest to come on board with the Australian Property Institute?
The property industry and the valuation profession are at pivotal points in their evolution. It is important for me to ensure all members, young and old, from all disciplines, are given a voice at board level. Decisions we make today are crucial in securing success for the API’s future – to remain relevant, agile, and cohesive.
This is what drives my passion and interest in joining the board. We need to embrace technology and new ways of doing business.
- What financial experience or expertise do you bring to the API?
I am currently a business owner and previously have had joint ventures with other property valuation and advisory firms. I am also a former Affiliate Member of Chartered Accountants Australia & New Zealand (CAANZ) and spent the majority of my career in senior leadership roles at large and mid-tier accounting firms.
As a result of the above, I am extremely competent with the financial responsibilities of directorship and what that entails.
- What governance experience do you bring to the API?
I am a current and active member of the Australian Institute of Company Directors (AICD) and have been chair, vice-chair and board member on other boards and committees for almost 20 years. In addition, I am a former member of the API Victoria Board (now Committee).
Through the AICD I have also completed 2 modules (Risk/Strategy) of the company directors’ course which are extremely relevant given current market uncertainties to ensure the resilience of all API members.
I am cognizant of the corporate governance responsibilities required by directors, and the importance of providing inclusive leadership within our diverse membership.
- What strategic planning experience do you bring to the API?
I have formulated strategies and commenced successful valuation practices at a number of companies which remain in place today. Formulating and implementing a robust strategy is crucial to the success of any business venture.
My clients regularly engage me to formulate strategies that provide the best outcome in relation to complex valuation issues. These often include being appointed as an expert witness or subject matter expert.
My passion for strategy and change led me to complete a Graduate Certificate in Entrepreneurship and Innovation. This equips me with additional skills necessary to address strategies required for change on all levels.
- To further pursue API’s strategic direction, it would be of great benefit if prospective Directors could contribute advocacy, policy and/or digital communications experience to the Board. What is your experience in one or more of these areas?
I have significant experience in writing and reviewing valuation policies in respect to government and large corporate clients. I have over many years provided advocacy for plant and machinery valuers within the API and other related bodies such as those in the legal and accounting professions. As a proficient user of LinkedIn, I have acquired a large network of contacts in senior business positions in Australia and overseas.
- In general, what can you bring to the API and why should members elect you?
I bring with me to the API a commitment to support and encourage the growth and emerging careers of our young and newest members, as evidenced by my regular invitations to RMIT and Melbourne University to present on valuation topics, and in my former role as mentor in the PCA mentor program.
My passion for technology and for finding a way to do things better is ever present. It is underwritten by many years of experience in conducting valuations across many different industries and locations in Australia and overseas.
I am approachable and independent. I have no conflicts of interest and as the owner of my own business I have the capacity to actively contribute to the role of being an API board member.
More information on the 2020 Election can be found at https://www.api.org.au/about/api-pty-ltd-board-governance/meet-the-candidates-2020-api-board-elections/
