Richard Upton has extensive experience in the field of complex regeneration projects throughout the UK. He was appointed as Deputy Chief Executive of U+I, the FTSE quoted specialist regeneration property and investment business in July 2015, following the merger of Cathedral Group and Development Securities. In January 2021 Richard became Chief Executive of U+I and restructured the business leading to a sale of the business to Land Securities Plc. Richard’s family office - Are You? - invests in regeneration projects focused on social impact, patronage of the arts and bursaries for disadvantaged students in real estate. His bid to open spaces up to the public, bring in art for joy, and evoke a playful environment sees him loaning his personal collection of art and sculptures to local authorities at minimal cost. A model he wishes to replicate across the country, in East Sussex he has delivered a self-sustaining artists’ collective from a repurposed Ambulance station.

Richard has served as a Historic England's London Advisory Committee member since 2012 and has campaigned extensively for sustainable restoration of heritage buildings, including the campaign to save Smithfield Market which he co - funded and fought successfully. Richard was appointed as a Commissioner of Historic England in 2017.