Monday, 23 August 2021
 
Expressions of Interest: Mentors (NZIV Mentoring Support Programme)
 
Any member of NZIV subject to a complaint may turn to the Institute's Mentor Panel to receive guidance and support as necessary during what is invariably a stressful time in their professional career. Upon the recent retirement of a Mentor, a vacancy has now been created and at least one position must now be filled to ensure the Programme’s ongoing, smooth operation.

Background – the complaints process

The Valuers Act (1948) establishes a framework for complaints against Registered Valuers. Any person may make a complaint in relation to the conduct of a Registered Valuer. The focus of the complaints process is to determine whether the valuer, in performing his or her duties, has complied with relevant provisions of the Code of Ethics of the New Zealand Institute of Valuers.
 
The complaint is investigated by either the Valuer General (VG), or NZIV who will then provide a confidential report on the matter to the Valuers Registration Board (VRB). Subsequently, the VRB will decide whether to hold an inquiry into the valuer's conduct which may ultimately proceed to a formal evidential public hearing with lawyers typically representing both parties. The VRB may subsequently dismiss the complaint or impose certain disciplinary sanctions on the valuer.

How does the Mentor Support Programme relate to the complaints process?

The investigation and reporting phase may take place over a protracted period and can prove very stressful for the Valuer regardless of the merits of the complaint. This is where the Mentor Support programme can be of assistance to the Valuer. It does not seek to help the Registered valuer solve their problem; rather it is a means of support to help them through what can prove to be quite a difficult period.
 
The Mentor Support Programme is conducted in confidence - quite independently from any related processes, including those involving the NZIV Professional Conduct Committee (PCC) and the VRB.  The PCC has a responsibility to facilitate the public in progressing their concerns commencing with facilitating contact with an independent, senior member of the New Zealand Institute of Valuers to discuss any concerns they may have in relation to a Valuer. In contrast, the Mentoring Programme provides support for the Valuer, and operates completely autonomously to any NZIV obligations that serve to protect the public.
 
It should be borne in mind that potential complainants are encouraged where possible to raise any issue directly with the Registered Valuer concerned and seek a resolution before escalating towards a more formal complaints or disciplinary process. It is important to note here that the Registered Valuer is able to seek access to a Mentor from the Panel at any time, including this early phase.
 
Further information on the complaints and disciplinary processes are located on the NZIV website online here.

How is the Mentor Support Programme accessed?

Registered Valuers subject to a complaint are encouraged to obtain mentor support to help them cope with the inevitable stresses that the complaints process invokes. In the initial phase, Valuers contact the President of the New Zealand Institute of Valuers in the first instance who can then subsequently assign a Mentor Support person.

Mentor’s role description and qualifications

A key part of the role will be to provide some practicable suggestions such as having the valuer inform their insurer and obtain legal counsel. Mentors are not involved in direct communications with any party on behalf of the valuer but may offer suggestions with respect to those communications and review the technical aspects.
 
Mentors will need a good understanding of the complaints process, the NZIV Code of Ethics, and be capable of operating with patience, empathy, and discretion. The successful nominee will join members of the existing Mentor panel who are all experienced valuers with a detailed knowledge of VRB procedures.
 
There is no renumeration provided to Mentors, with the service itself made available free of charge to NZIV members.

Current requirement - nominations for Mentors

Nominations in confidence enabling the appointment of a highly respected and suitably experienced Valuer are currently being considered by the President of the New Zealand Institute of Valuers Adam Binns whom can be contacted at president@nziv.org.nz. The nomination can be made preferably in writing, however anyone wanting to discuss a potential nomination are encouraged to contact the NZIV President directly on his cell 021 121 4611. Nominations for a third party, or the person themselves, are both acceptable.
 
Closing date for nominations is Monday 30 August 2021.