2025 Judges

As a sustainability communications specialist Andy is a leading voice in the UK housing sector’s net zero transition. Through his time as Editor and Chair of the Unlock Net Zero webinar series and live events, he has helped to create the go-to platform for knowledge-sharing, strategy, and innovation in housing sustainability.

A passionate advocate for effective communications and sustainability, Andy’s expertise will be invaluable in recognising Build to Rent leaders who are driving real change.

With extensive experience across both the public and private sectors, Claire brings a unique perspective, seeing things from both client and consultant viewpoints.

Her expertise and keen eye for excellence will help recognise the very best in BTR.

We’re delighted to share that Brendan Geraghty, CEO of The Association for Rental Living (ARL), will be joining the judging panel for this year’s Build
to Rent Awards.

With his extensive expertise in customer-focused design, investment strategy, and ESG-driven development, Brendan is perfectly placed to help recognise the very best in BTR. His commitment to driving industry leadership, best practices, and innovation makes him a fantastic addition to the judging panel.

With extensive expertise in senior leadership, strategy, and operations, Tracey brings a wealth of experience in residential property investment, asset management, governance, and business improvement. From estate and block management to BTR, she has influenced and led at every level, from the coalface to the C-suite.

As Chair of the BPF Residential Management Committee, a BPF Living Sectors Board Member, RICS UK&I WR Board Member and External Examiner for Birmingham City University College of Built Environment, Tracey is a well-respected leader in the industry and her expertise will be invaluable to the judging process.

Amanda, alongside TV’s Phil Spencer and two highly respected co-directors, founded Move iQ to empower consumers on their home-moving journey helping people make well-informed decisions that save both time and money.

With Amanda’s deep industry expertise and passion for consumer empowerment, we know she’ll bring valuable insights to the judging panel.
Welcome aboard, Amanda! We can’t wait to celebrate the very best in Build to Rent with you.

An award-winning leader in housing, ESG, and tech, Alex was recently awarded Honorary Membership of the Royal Town Planning Institute and is a Chair, Commissioner, and Fellow of the Radix Big Tent Housing Commission as well as a Strategic Advisor to select organisations working to solve the housing crisis.

Her expertise and genuine passion as a former BTR resident, developer and investor will be invaluable in recognising excellence across the BTR sector.

A well-respected leader in the sector, Olaide has over 15 years of experience driving urban regeneration and social impact. She is a recognised expert in balancing commercial imperatives with delivering meaningful change for local communities.

As a leader in fostering growth and strengthening community and investor relations, Olaide’s expertise and insight will be invaluable in recognising excellence within the Build to Rent sector.

With over 15 years of experience in operations, finance, and management, Grace brings a wealth of knowledge and expertise to the panel. At Quintain, she oversees the operations of 3,500+ units across eight developments in Wembley Park, leading the teams responsible for customer service, retention, and financial performance.

Grace is also a Committee Member on the ARL's EDI and Operations Committees, further demonstrating her commitment to excellence in the Build to Rent sector.

We’re delighted to have her on board and look forward to her insights in recognising the best in Build to Rent!

A recognised practitioner and advocate for Build to Rent (BTR) and the wider Living Sector, James brings over 25 years of varied delivery experience to the judging panel. His personal mission is to help tackle the UK’s housing supply crisis through both policy and practice, recognising that a full tenure spectrum is essential to meeting this challenge.

Adding to his impressive contributions, James has also been announced as a Project Board Member on the newly formed BTR Task Force, further solidifying his commitment to shaping the future of the sector.

We’re honoured to have James on board and look forward to his insights in celebrating the best in BTR!

A leading figure in Build to Rent, Russell has shaped the sector through Assael Architecture, extensive US research, and UK design guides. Most notably, he co-authored both editions of the Urban Land Institute’s Build to Rent: A Best Practice Guide, backed by the British Government.

Beyond his work at Assael, Russell has made a significant impact across the industry. He is the former Chair of the Urban Land Institute’s UK Residential Council, an advisor on MHCLG’s Build to Rent Joint Committee, and an active member of the Urban Design Group. Additionally, he leads Assael’s international projects, frequently traveling to Bahrain and beyond.

With his wealth of experience and thorough industry experience, Russell will play a key role in evaluating and recognising excellence in this year’s awards.

With his wealth of experience and thorough industry experience, Russell will play a key role in evaluating and recognising excellence in this year’s awards.

We’re thrilled to share that Theo Plowman, Assistant Director of Policy at the British Property Federation (BPF), has joined the expert judging panel for the Build to Rent Awards!

As the lead on housing policy at the BPF, Theo plays a pivotal role in shaping the future of Build to Rent, acting as the key liaison for living sector organisations, government, and media. His work managing the BPF Residential Board, BTR Committee, and Residential Management Committee ensures the sector continues to thrive.

With his deep policy expertise and commitment to driving excellence, Theo will be instrumental in recognising and celebrating the very best in BTR.

A highly respected leader in the living sector, Stephanie brings extensive expertise across residential development, operations, and investment. She has played a pivotal role in shaping the industry, supporting the Association for Rental Living (ARL) through her contributions to the Research & Policy Committee and the Joint ARL and TPI Education Taskforce, serves as Chair of Diversity, Equity & Inclusion, and has recently been appointed to the ARL Board.

Stephanie’s passion and leadership continue to drive positive change in Build to Rent, and we’re thrilled to have her help recognise excellence in the sector.👏

We welcome Sarah, Assistant Director of Planning in the Place, Prosperity & Sustainability Directorate at Birmingham City Council, as a judge for this year’s Build to Rent Awards

With nearly 20 years of planning experience across London Boroughs, the GLA, and now leading the planning function at one of the largest Local Planning Authorities in the country, Sarah brings a wealth of expertise to the judging panel.

Sarah is a passionate advocate for the planning sector, with significant experience in driving sustainable growth, delivering positive outcomes, and creating great places to live, visit, and work. Her expert knowledge across all planning disciplines will be invaluable in recognising excellence in Build to Rent.

Lizzie, Managing Director, Places and Estates at Notting Hill Genesis, will be joining the expert judging panel this year.. With years of experience, including her role as Director of Folio, Notting Hill Genesis’s BTR business, Lizzie brings invaluable expertise to the table.

Her deep understanding of the Build to Rent sector will undoubtedly play a key part in the judging process. We’re excited to see her contribution to the awards.