SPF director, David Melhuish, said: “We are delighted to welcome Jonathan Guthrie, director for strategic partnerships at Robertson Group as our chair for 2025-26, and Cameron Stott, head of Scotland for JLL as our vice-chair.

“Both bring huge experience and expertise from across the real estate sector to the leadership of SPF in this crucial year for our sector as we continue to face economic headwinds, a challenging investment climate, especially in areas such as Build to Rent, and the political uncertainties ahead of the upcoming Scottish Parliament elections next May.”

Jonathan Guthrie added: “I am delighted to be asked to chair the SPF in this important year. Building and maintaining industry confidence with Holyrood elections, the final Stage of the Housing (Scotland) Bill, with its rent control and PBSA elements to finalise, present ongoing challenges. I am grateful to my predecessor, Stuart Oag at Drum Property Group, for his leadership on these issues over the past year. 

“I would like to draw the industry and all those involved, across many sectors, even closer together. Stretched public finances, challenging development viability and low economic growth continue. It is clear that understanding each other, then working together, is the only way to overcome these issues and to strengthen our economy. Together we can attract new brands, occupiers and investment to Scotland, for our built environment, communities and town centres, with all of the social and economic benefits that brings. Please join me as we rise to these challenges, together.” 

Cameron Stott commented: “This is a vital year as the real estate sector and wider economy adapts to new challenges caused by geopolitical events and the continued challenge of supplying quality places to work, live and take leisure in our built environment.

“With some cautious signs of greater demand for property in our towns and cities it is important we work with our public sector colleagues to highlight the opportunities and potential of our core urban economies and ensure in developing the urban environment we prioritise delivery of positive social value.”