Editor's note: This brief was summarised by The Property AI Newsroom from a report by The Negotiator. Read the original article for full details.

The Dispute Service Announces New CEO as Steve Harriott Retires

Steve Harriott, Chief Executive of The Dispute Service (TDS), will retire at the end of this year after sixteen years in the role. The TDS Board has confirmed that Jacqueline Starr will succeed him as CEO.

The announcement comes less than three months after the introduction of the Renters’ Rights Act, during a period of significant change for the private rented sector. Letting agents and landlords are continuing to adapt to new reforms affecting tenancy management and dispute resolution.

During his tenure, Harriott led TDS through a period of growth, establishing it as one of the Government-approved tenancy deposit protection providers. Under his leadership, TDS expanded its dispute resolution services, invested in digital technology, and strengthened its presence in the private rented sector.

Jacqueline Starr joins TDS from the Rail Delivery Group, where she served as Chief Executive since 2020 and more recently as Executive Chair. She brings experience in leading large customer-focused organisations through operational and digital transformation, as well as governance roles within the housing sector.

A formal handover will take place to ensure continuity as TDS enters its next phase under the new regulatory landscape.