Elle Cass has been announced as the next Chair of the Board of Trustees at the Royal Town Planning Institute (RTPI).
Elle is a Chartered Town Planner with almost 30 years’ professional experience in the planning profession. Her career has spanned roles in local government, national housebuilding, global real estate, and environmental consultancy.
She is currently Head of Built Environment Growth at SLR Consulting, where she leads multi-disciplinary teams advising clients across housing, retail, leisure, care, education, industrial, and logistics.
Since joining the RTPI Board as a Chartered Trustee in 2023, Elle has served as Vice Chair and Chair of Finance, contributing to governance, strategy, and financial oversight.
During her tenure, she has supported the review of the Institute’s Investment Strategy, delivered improvements to the Annual Report and Accounts, and provided a clear rationale for membership fee recommendations to ensure financial sustainability and member value.
On her appointment, Elle Cass said: ‘‘I am absolutely delighted to be taking on the role of Chair of the Board for the next 3-years. I am initially looking forward to the selection process for the new CEO, and thereafter working with them and the established and experienced SET to ensure a smooth transition in this time of significant change at the Institute.
“With ‘planning and planners’ recognised as a critical driving force for the Government’s Growth agenda, it certainly is an exciting time to be in the profession.
“Notwithstanding, raising the profile of (and accessibility to) a career in planning, highlighting its importance for economic growth and demonstrating how it is a driver for positive social change and sustainability, will continue to be key messages during my tenure as Chair; alongside the tasks of leading on governance and strategic direction.’’
