Alexander Anrude Q&A.
Meet Alexander (MRICS), the final case study in our series of Q&As with the residential property finalists for the RICS Matrics Surveyor Awards 2023. Alexander is a Chartered Development Surveyor for Kensington and Chelsea Council. In this case study, Alexander tells us of the many highlights of his surveying career so far, including working on the acquisition programme for Grenfell bereaved and survivors and helping to create a new homes delivery programme for the borough which he continues to work on closely. Read on or download our Q&A with Alexander and keep an eye out for more case studies from other finalists over the coming weeks. The RICS Matrics Surveyor Awards ceremony will take place on Friday 20th October at The Londoner, Leicester Square.
What was your background before becoming a surveyor?
Following my university studies to become a Geoscientist, I was an executive officer at a mid-sized shipping company where I assisted in the management of their property assets as well as helping to run the business. I have a range of experience in terms of geological surveying but have always been interested in the built environment.
What made you consider surveying as your next career move?
I’ve always wanted to work in property but did not know which route to take. When I was about 12 years old my father explained the difference between freehold and leasehold and that’s when my interest was piqued.
I would call myself a Development Surveyor with unique experience in the residential sector and also other sectors such as property development. To be able to develop property on a parcel of land is an art, and like any artist with a blank canvas and a paint brush I wish to create. I am a huge supporter of affordable housing and very interested in developing it within Central London which is currently facing a housing crisis.
To be able to contribute to this effort and work on complex development programmes such as the development of flood defences for Chelsea Creek, is what inspires my love for surveying.
What qualification route did you take and why?
My first qualification was a Masters in Geoscience from Keele University, and for a time I thought I may try my hand at geological surveying. Shortly after I completed my Masters, the Grenfell tragedy occurred and I provided assistance to the Property team at Kensington and Chelsea Council. This team undertook one of the largest acquisition programmes I have ever seen. It was shortly after this that I decided to stay on at the Council and take up a graduate position.
I then undertook another Masters in Real Estate with Kingston University and alongside this degree embarked on my APC, achieving my MRICS status shortly after graduating.
What has been the highlight of your surveying career so far?
Since joining Kensington and Chelsea Council, I am proud to have worked on many projects including the acquisition programme for Grenfell bereaved and survivors, combating impacts of Brexit and assisting in the response to the COVID-19 pandemic. I have also helped create a new homes delivery programme for the borough which I continue to work on closely.
In terms of this year, I am pleased to say I achieved a significant milestone for the Council by agreeing a Development Agreement with our newly appointed Development Partner, Mount Anvil, for the Council‘s ‘Lots Road South’ development, seeking to deliver affordable and open market housing, affordable workspace, commercial space and Extra Care homes.
Alongside these projects I completed my APC and became a Chartered Surveyor. To be able to balance all of these elements is a significant highlight for me.
What do you love most about your role?
It’s the conversations with the public that interest me – sitting down with resident groups to collaborate and deliver something for the local community and borough. Reflecting on my time at RBKC, it’s working with the Property team that brings me most joy. I must recognise my very good friend and colleague, Martin Mortimer, who has been an absolute pleasure to work with and I owe him a great deal.
What advice would you give to anyone joining the profession?
My advice would be to look at the RICS motto, “Est modus in rebus”, which loosely translates to ‘there is a measure in all things’. That is the essence of surveying – measurement. Being able to observe, map/research, interpret and report your findings in a professional manner is a crucial skill in surveying. If you can do this, you will go far.
How does it feel to be a finalist in the RICS Matrics Surveyor Awards 2023?
I‘m honoured to have been shortlisted for this award, and for a second year! I would like to thank RICS for considering me for the award. I must admit it is a proud feeling to be able to say that I am a two-time finalist of the RICS Matrics Surveyor Awards, and my fingers are crossed for this year.
If you’re interested in being a surveyor, find out more about Sava’s vocational Diploma in Residential Surveying and Valuation. If you’d like to meet more of the finalists in the RICS Matrics Surveyor Awards 2023, take a look at our previous Q&A with Will Holden of Holdens Chartered Surveyors and Building Consultancy.