The National Residential Landlords Association (NRLA) has made two top-level appointments intended to bolster its service to members as the sector prepares for radical change.

James Kent (pictured top right with Ben Beadle), MD of the property compliance management platform Safe2, which was bought by the NRLA last year, will join the association as chief innovation officer. As well as having responsibility for Safe2, Kent will oversee the NRLA’s property management service, Portfolio, along with all training and accreditation provided by the association.

Commercial partnerships

Philip Cox (pictured right) becomes the NRLA’s new deputy chief executive. Formerly the finance director, he will continue to oversee all aspects of the association’s finances and commercial partnerships, ensuring robust corporate governance arrangements are in place as the NRLA grows.

The appointments come in a year that will see the Renters Reform Bill significantly change the way the private rented sector works, and the potential for a change of government at the general election.

Supporting members

NRLA chief executive Ben Beadle says: “As we enter into the new year, the NRLA’s priority remains ensuring our members have all the support they need to navigate and make a success of changes to the way the sector works.

"In their new roles, James and Philip will continue to ensure the NRLA is providing first-class services to our members. They will make sure we make best use of innovative new products that make renting easier, and ensure we have the right partnerships in place to secure a thriving rental market.”