Lees brings more than 25 years’ experience in residential surveying and valuation to the role and previously worked at CSS earlier in his career.

Most recently, he was senior specialist for residential surveying at the Royal Institution of Chartered Surveyors (RICS), where he played a key role in developing professional standards across the industry.

Back at Countrywide, Lees will add further depth to the technical team’s expertise.

CSS managing director Matthew Cumber says: “The addition of Steve strengthens what is already one of the most experienced technical teams in the industry.

“With the use of technology, we’ve been able to take our quality and audit functions to a new level, freeing our team to focus on the human insight that really matters in terms of spotting developing trends, aligning with client needs, and keeping them ahead of industry change.

“Steve’s background with RICS and his long-standing commitment to raising professional standards make him an outstanding addition to the business.”

Lees adds: “The technical team at CSS is already hugely respected across the market, and I look forward to contributing to its continued growth and helping drive standards even further forward at what is a pivotal time for both the business and the surveying profession.

“With evolving regulation, growing environmental considerations, and the continued adoption of new technology, there has never been a greater need for clear technical leadership.”