<b></b> Robert Ashmead is to be the new chief executive of The House Builders Federation. He joins the HBF from the Royal Institution of Chartered Surveyors (RICS), where he was managing director. His previous roles include chief executive of inward investment agency Locate in Kent, and director of international business development at London First, the organisation which promotes the capital. <br>Announcing the appointment, HBF president Geoff Ball said: &amp;"We are delighted that Robert Ashmead is joining us at a time of rapid change for the housebuilding industry. <p></p><p>&amp;"Robert has an outstanding track record of success. He has a great deal of highly relevant experience and has extensive knowledge of business and economic development. &amp;"Robert has the skills and leadership ability needed for this highly demanding position.&amp;"</p><p>At the RICS Ashmead, who is 49, was influential in implementing its programme for change. &amp;"He has the communication and political skills to ensure that HBF will be influential in the discussions currently being carried out by government in a number of key areas for our industry,&amp;" said Andrew MacKenzie, who has been holding the reins at HBF since Stuart HillÕs departure last year. Ashmead will take up his position on October 1.</p><p></p>