There are some careers that don’t simply span decades – they shape them.
For over 25 years, Mark Chappe has been a cornerstone of Rider Levett Bucknall’s Capital Region presence. He hasn’t just grown the ACT business – he has helped instil in the team a commitment to integrity, expertise and dependability that continues to ripple across government and private sectors alike.
Last month, Mark formally retired from RLB, closing a chapter he has been carefully preparing over the past two years as he gradually transitioned out of his role. For many, though, his influence is still present in the way the team operates, in the trust clients place in RLB, and in the culture of care, professionalism and humility that has always underpinned his leadership.
“Mark was never one for fanfare,” reflects Fiona Doherty, Director at RLB ACT. “But he has left behind something incredibly enduring, not only a high-performing business but a team that genuinely believes in what it does, because of the values he lived every day.”
Mark’s career has always been grounded in substance, and demonstrates what happens when deep technical knowledge meets character-driven leadership. Under his stewardship, the ACT office evolved into a trusted advisor to government departments, institutions and private developers across the region. As Managing Director, Mark was a sounding board, a mentor and an unshakeable constant – someone who listened first, led quietly, and always put the work and people before the accolades.
“There’s something special about the kind of legacy that isn’t loud,” says Septhon Wolmarans. “Mark was instrumental in putting RLB ACT on the map. But more than that, he laid a foundation that allows us to grow while staying true to our roots.”
Fiona now leads the Capital Region office, with Septhon continuing in his leadership role, helping to uphold the culture and values that Mark instilled.
As part of the evolution of the leadership team, Matt Richard also steps into a new role as Technical Director, continuing to carry forward the quality and standards Mark championed.
With over 60 years of combined experience between Fiona and Septhon, the office enters its next chapter with both confidence and gratitude.
For Mark, retirement is not so much a departure as a quiet handover – the kind that happens when you’ve already done the work of preparing people, cultivating relationships and building something to last.
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