Hayward has been with Propertymark since 2013, and the organisation is now looking to find candidates suitable to lead its policy and campaign focus in his absence.

Nathan Emerson, chief executive of Propertymark, said: “Mark has been instrumental in the evolution of Propertymark, he has built a talented policy team, created powerful relationships, helped to secure positive changes throughout the industry for agents and supported us to navigate change.

“The organisation is in a strong and solid place, and it’s this stability which means now is the right time for Mark to enjoy his retirement.

“We wish him all the best and will now be on the hunt for someone to look after his legacy and develop it further.”

Hayward added: “I’ve been with Propertymark for eight years and although my retirement is in sight, I will first be helping to recruit our new chief policy officer and settle them into the role for a seamless transition.

“I’m incredibly proud of the work myself and my team have done and our achievements for the sector, we are looking for the very best candidates to continue the momentum we have within housing policy.”