The John Cartwright Award for Outstanding Individual Contribution

This award has been renamed as a tribute to our former CEO, John Cartwright, who sadly passed away in December 2023.  In the decade to December 2019, John successfully led AREF through a transformational period, setting it up to become the award-winning industry association it is today.

This award is a discretionary award, with nominations selected by the AREF Team.  A vote then takes place by the AREF Board, Management Committee and Team to determine the winner.  It is awarded to an individual who has gone the extra mile in terms of their personal involvement in our affairs and their commitment to the evolution of the association and the industry. 

No submission is required for this award.

2025 Winner:

Sarah Walker, of Travis Smith

Recognised for originating the idea behind the ESG Myth Busting podcast series and leading its development from concept to launch. Sarah also contributed to AREF’s response to the Landlord & Tenant Act consultation, brought fresh perspectives to the DEI Taskforce, and acted as host for the Nature in Real Estate video launch.

^{Sarah Walker collecting her award at The AREF Annual Dinner 2025}

2025 Nominees:

•  Sarah Walker, Travers Smith
• Jack Quinlan, Blackrock 
• Alex Davies, Chalkhill Partners 
• Alice Teboul, Columbia Threadneedle Investments 
• Charles Crowe, PGIM Real Estate