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. Simon Altschwager 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?
In a nutshell – I am passionate about the future of the valuation profession. I am keenly aware of the challenges facing the industry, but also have an insight into the opportunities available. I am passionate about the attraction (and retention) of quality people to the industry, and promoting the integral role of valuers in the Australian economy. Having now worked on the client side of the industry for 5 years, I can bring a unique voice to the table, and provide valuable insight into discussions regarding report format, risk considerations and fees.
- What financial experience or expertise do you bring to the API?
Heading up the property risk division of Rural Bank affords me the opportunity to review and analyse the financials of many businesses throughout Australia. This has provided me with insights into the common threads found in successful businesses. Additionally, I have been responsible for running several businesses in the past, including a national company with large, service based contracts requiring the ability to effectively manage financial operations.
- What governance experience do you bring to the API?
My current role within Rural Bank includes responsibility for ensuring compliance with Australian Prudential Regulation Authority (APRA) guidelines, forming part of our ongoing governance. Further, I have strong experience in stakeholder management, working with Boards, contribution to the development of strategic objectives and ensuring those objectives are attained. This experience has been gained through my engagement with national companies such as Westfield and Fortescue, along with Federal and State government agencies.
- What strategic planning experience do you bring to the API?
My expertise in strategic planning has been further enhanced with my recent completion of the Master of Agribusiness. Specific strategic planning experience includes my key role in the establishment of a start-up business, building it from a single person operation to a national company with over 30 staff in the space of 3 years. Further, I have been responsible for establishing new business units within two other national companies, which required the setting of goals, and the development of strategies to achieve those goals. In all cases, strategic planning ensured successful outcomes.
- 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?
My involvement in establishing, and managing, a national company provided significant experience in all three of these areas. Advocacy is a significant function within any start-up business, promoting the benefits of the services provided to prospective customers, investors and other stakeholders. Policy development is also a key within such businesses, and it was my responsibility to ensure Policies were appropriate, covering all required aspects. My current role within Rural Bank has built on previous experience, being required to establish a valuations division within the Bank, develop Policies for that division and advocate for its adoption with other senior management and the Board. Digital communications has been a key focus in both roles, with team members located throughout Australia. Additionally, I am currently responsible for the development of an in-house valuations platform for the Bank.
- In general, what can you bring to the API and why should members elect you?
The combination of client side experience and over 15 years on the delivery side of the industry (including running my own valuations practice), provides me with a unique insight into the challenges and opportunities facing valuers and firms. Whilst currently focusing on the agribusiness sector, I also have extensive experience in residential, commercial and industrial sectors throughout Australia. I have a strong network of professionals in the valuations sector and aligned industries, including regional members and those in smaller firms; and am a highly motivated individual, with strong leadership, negotiation and communication skills. The API has a key role to play in the future of the valuation profession (building on the achievements of the past), and I have the skills and experience required to assist in delivering on the Institute’s strategic goals.
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/
