Valuation panel management firm VAS has appointed Lewis Birdsworth as head of IT and business systems as it looks to strengthen its technology infrastructure in support of its long-term growth plans.

The business said the appointment forms part of a wider investment in technology, resilience and scalable growth as it works through its five-year strategy.

Birdsworth (pictured) joins with experience in IT leadership, including frameworks, security and business systems transformation. VAS said he has a track record in improving operational resilience and aligning business systems with commercial objectives.

It added that he has experience of implementing and managing ISO 27001-aligned Information Security Management Systems. The company said it complies with ISMS standards and is working towards ISO 27001 accreditation.

In the new role, Birdsworth will oversee the IT function, with responsibility for technology infrastructure, vendor relationships, business technology decisions, and the firm’s developing data and management information capabilities.

Birdsworth said: “I am delighted to join VAS at a time when technology is so central to its strategic ambitions.

“My approach is rooted in removing friction and ensuring that our systems work seamlessly in the background.

“As the tech lead, my work would empower our teams to stay focused on providing the best possible service to our lender and broker partners.”

Sean Welham, managing director of VAS, added: “VAS is a people-led, technology-enabled service business, and Lewis’s arrival is key to ensuring our infrastructure keeps pace with our expansion.

“He brings a pragmatic, solution-focused mindset that fits perfectly with our culture.

“As we continue to grow, it is essential that our systems remain robust and aligned with our long-term goals.

“Lewis will play a vital role in ensuring our colleagues have the tools they need to work effectively, allowing us to focus on our clients and the delivery of high-quality property data that defines our offering.”