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 Nominees:

We are delighted to announce the nominees for the 2025 award:

• Sarah Walker, Travers 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.
• Jack Quinlan, Blackrock – Recognised for organising two well-received FutureGen site visits to King’s Cross and Leadenhall Street, and for leading the inaugural FutureGen Breakfast with Paul Tebbit, which he chaired with confidence and clarity. Jack is also a valued member of the FutureGen Committee, consistently contributing thoughtful ideas and energy to its work.
• Alex Davies, Chalkhill Partners - Recognised for stepping into the role of Chair of the FutureGen Committee, speaking at AREF’s Committee Day, and representing the group at Management Committee meetings. Alex has also played an important role in shaping the FutureGen Committee within the new RE:UK association, helping to ensure a smooth transition and strong foundations.
• Alice Teboul, Columbia Threadneedle Investments – Recognised for her ongoing support and frequent speaking contributions, including the Doughnut Economics webinar, the ESG Myth Busting podcast series, and the upcoming Social Impact event. Alice also brings valuable insight and energy to the ESG & Impact Investing Committee.
• Charles Crowe, PGIM Real Estate – Recognised for securing the venue for AREF’s six-part FUNDamentals training series at PGIM, co-presenting the first session, and supporting the preparation of the second. Charles has played a key role in sourcing high-quality speakers and is a valued contributor to the Education & Training Committee.

Winners will be announced at the AREF Annual Dinner & Awards in September, sponsored by JTC Group (read more here).

2024 Winner:

Winner: Patrick Groves, CMS

Patrick Groves of CMS collecting the award.

Patrick was nominated for this award for his many years of participating in the FutureGen Committee and now in the Education & Training Committee, specificially his work in:

• Planning and moderating all three debt panel events for the AREF Debt Event Series.
• Contributions in the planning of the AREF Conference.

Other nominations included:

• Chantal Beaudoin, Knight Frank Investment Management
• Clare Grimes, GRE Finance
• Simon Marx, Lothbury Investment Management
• Jessica Pilz, Fiera Real Estate