NAJ appoints new Institute of Registered Valuers chair

The National Association of Jewellers (NAJ) has announced Sammantha Maclachlan FIRV as the new chair of the Institute of Registered Valuers (IRV).

Maclachlan assumes her new position after serving as vice chair of the jewellery appraisal authority for more than one and a half years.

She will take over from Heather Callaway FIRV, who has headed the jewellery appraisal authority since 2024.

The NAJ said she steps into her new role with a focus on enhancing communication, advancing learning opportunities, and promoting greater engagement across the membership.

Callaway will pass on her chair title to Maclachlan on 16 May, where the announcement will be made in front of attending IRV members, fellows and industry peers and Callaway’s service will be celebrated.

She will continue as a board director of the British Allied Trades Federation (BATF) and Chair of the BATF charity commission.

Maclachlan said: “I am truly honoured to take on the role of chair of the Institute of Registered Valuers. My sincere thanks go to Heather Callaway for her leadership and for all that she has done to raise the Institute’s profile across the broader industry. It has been a privilege to work alongside her, and the foundations she has helped strengthen will benefit our community for years to come.

“The strength of our Institute lies in our members, and I encourage every Member and Fellow to get involved, whether through our panels, working groups, educational initiatives, or mentoring opportunities. The future of the Institute is built by all of us, and together we can create an Institute that is better-connected, supporting future valuers to be more empowered, and supportive of all for the future.”

Outgoing chair, Heather Callaway, added: “I want to extend my warmest congratulations to Sammantha. She has the full support of the IRV professional community group, who have long recognised her presence within the sector and her approachable nature with members.

“On a personal note, I have greatly enjoyed representing the needs of IRVs during my time as chair. I look forward to continuing to contribute as a member of the IRV Professional Community Group and to supporting Sammantha and the incoming vice chair, as the Institute continues to grow and thrive.”

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