New chief executive for REAA

REAA Board chairperson Kristy McDonald QC welcomed the appointment, saying Lampen-Smith's experience would be invaluable.

 "Kevin's experience with regulatory bodies will be put to good use, as will his experience in maximising organisational performance."

Lampen-Smith has most recently been the general manager, corporate services at the Electricity Authority. He played a significant role in the successful transition from the Electricity Commission to the newly-formed market regulator, the Electricity Authority.

He is a chartered accountant with experience in senior leadership roles in New Zealand and overseas, including roles in Africa and Asia.

The Real Estate Agents Authority is a crown entity established by the Real Estate Agents Act 2008, which came into force on November 17, 2009. The Authority is tasked with promoting and protecting the interests of consumers in transactions relating to real estate and promoting public confidence in the performance of real estate agency work.