![]() ## believe in your next move #### Rightmove plc | Annual Report 2023 Rightmove plc Annual Report 2023 Rightmove plc 2 Caldecotte Lake Business Park Caldecotte Lake Drive Milton Keynes MK7 8LE Registered in England no. 6426485 ![]() Rightmove plc | Annual Report 2023 # believe it Rightmove’s vision is to give everyone the belief they can make their move. Our mission is to make the move easier and simpler, by giving everyone the best place to turn to and return to, for accessing the tools, expertise and trust to make it happen. Designed and produced by The Team www.theteam.co.uk ![]() Rightmove plc | Annual Report 2023 | 1 STRATEGIC REPORT GOVERNANCE FINANCIAL STATEMENTS Governance 66 Chair’s introduction to corporate governance report 67 Governance at a glance 70 Directorsandocers 74 Board activities 79 Audit Committee report 86 Nomination Committee report 91 Corporate Responsibility Committee report 94 Directors’ remuneration report 116 Directors’ report 119 Directors’ responsibilities statement 120 Independent Auditor’s report Financial statements 128 Consolidated statement of comprehensive income 129 Consolidated statement of nancialposition 130 Company statement of nancialposition 131 Consolidated statement of cashows 132Companystatementofcashows 133 Consolidated statement of changes in shareholders’ equity 134 Company statement of changes in shareholders’ equity 135Notesformingpartofthenancial statements 168 Advisers and shareholder information Strategic report 01 Contents 02 Highlights 04 Non-Executive Chair’s statement 06 Our business model 09 Our strategy 14 ChiefExecutive’sreview 18 Key performance indicators 20 Financialreview 23 Section 172 Statement –Workingwithourstakeholders 30 ESG report 32 Non-nancialandsustainability information statement 57 Risk management 60 Principal risks and uncertainties 64 Going concern and viability statement Our business model Page 6 Our strategy Page 9 Key performance indicators Page 18 Principal risks and uncertainties Page 60 ESG report Page 30 Corporate governance report Page 66 #### Rightmove is the place consumers turn to rst when they think #### about making their move, and the place they return to most. ![]() 2 | Rightmove plc | Annual Report 2023 (1)UnderlyingOperatingProtisdenedasoperatingprotbeforeshare-based payments charges (including the related National Insurance). (2)UnderlyingbasicEPSisdenedasunderlyingprot(protfortheyearbefore share-based payments charges including the related National Insurance and appropriatetaxadjustments),dividedbytheweightedaveragenumberof ordinary shares in issue for the period. #### Financial highlights Astrongnancialperformance,againstanuncertaineconomicbackdrop,wasdrivenby resilientandgrowingdemandforRightmove’sproductsandservicesthatdeliverexceptional value for both customers and consumers. Strategic report | Highlights Revenue +10 % Revenue of £364.3m up 10% compared to2022reectinggrowthacrossall business units (2022: £332.6m). Underlying basic earnings per share (2) +6 % Underlying basic earnings per share of 25.2p up 1.4p on 2022 (2022: 23.8p) Cash returned to shareholders £ 201.7m Cash returned to shareholders through share buybacks and dividends totalled £201.7m (2022: £197.7m). Interim dividendof3.6pandnaldividendof 5.7p (2022: 3.3p and 5.2p). Total dividend for 2023 of 9.3p (2022:8.5p) Basic earnings per share +5 % Basic earnings per share of 24.5p up 1.1p on 2022 (2022: 23.4p) Operating prot +7 % Operatingprotof£258.0mup7% compared to 2022 (2022: £241.3m) Underlying operating prot (1) +8 % Underlyingoperatingprot£264.6mup 8% compared to 2022 (2022: £245.4m) ![]() STRATEGIC REPORT GOVERNANCE FINANCIAL STATEMENTS (3) Average Revenue per Advertiser (ARPA) is calculated as revenue from Agency andNewHomesadvertisersinagivenmonthdividedbythetotalnumberof advertisers during the month, measured as a monthly average over the year. (4) Source: Google Analytics. #### Operational highlights Rightmove remains the UK’s unrivalled online digital property advertising and information portal,reectedbythenumberofpropertiesadvertised,customernumbers,averagespend by our customers and the time spent by consumers on the site. Customer numbers 18,785 Membershipnumbersdown1%/229 compared to 2022 (2022: 19,014) Trac – visits -4 % Sitevisits4%lowerthan2022at 2.2 billion (4) reectingtheuncertain economic and high mortgage rates backdrop during 2023 (2022: 2.3 billion) Properties advertised 847,000 An average of 847,000 UK residential properties advertised each month on Rightmove, more than any other UK site (2022: 773,000) Trac – time on site (4) 15.4 bn Time spent on the Rightmove site reduced 6% over the year to 15.4 billion minutes (2022: 16.3 billion) Employee engagement 88 % 88% of employee respondents believe that Rightmove is a great place to work(2022:87%) Average Revenue Per Advertiser (3) £ 1,431 Average revenue per advertiser (ARPA) up 9% compared to 2022 (2022: £1,314) Rightmove plc | Annual Report 2023 | 3 ![]() 4 | Rightmove plc | Annual Report 2023 Strategic report | Chair’s statement During 2023, the Board focused on supporting the management team and on establishing our ambition over both the medium and longer terms. We also focused on the potentialofAItohelptodeliversomeofthisgrowthatgreater paceandcosteciency,enablingustocontinuetogiveour customers and consumers the user experience they have come to expect from the UK’s number one property portal. Financial results TheGroup’sresultsreectthestrengthofthebusiness model and our core value proposition, delivering underlying operatingprot (1) of £264.6m (2022: £245.4m) and operating protof£258.0m(2022:£241.3m)fromrevenueof£364.3m (2022: £332.6m). Underlying basic earnings per share (2) was 25.2p (2022: 23.8p) and basic earnings per share 24.5p (2022: 23.4p). The cash (3) positionattheyear-endwas £38.9m (2022: £40.1m), having returned all surplus cash to shareholders. Returns to shareholders and dividend Inkeepingwithourpolicyofreturningfreecashtoour shareholders,£201.7m(2022:£197.7m)wasreturnedinthe year: £130.0m through the share buyback programme and £71.7m in dividend payments in and October respectively. TheBoardremainscondentinourabilitytodeliver sustainable returns to shareholders and is recommending analdividendof5.7ppersharefor2023(2022:5.2p). Thenaldividendwillbepaid,subjecttoshareholder approval, on 24 May 2024, taking the total dividend for the year to 9.3p (2022: 8.5p). Board changes On6March2023,PeterBrooks-Johnsonsteppeddownfrom hispositionasCEOandasanExecutiveDirector.Iwouldliketo thank Peter for his leadership as CEO and for everything he contributed throughout his 16 years of outstanding service that enabled Rightmove to become the clear market leader. It is my pleasure to present Rightmove’s results for the year ended 31 December 2023. In a year of ongoing economic challenge, I am delighted that our strongnancialresultsdemonstratetheresilience oftheGroup’sbusinessmodelandthevaluewe have delivered for both our customers and all our stakeholders. Economic uncertainty, driven by higher interest rates, continuedthroughout2023,withmuchspeculationonthe potential for a negative impact on the housing market. In the end, housing transactions remained resilient at 1.0 million (2022: 1.2 million). Home hunters remained active in their desire to move, and our customers continued to use our site anddigitalproductstohelpthemndnewpropertiesand sellcurrentones–developingtheirownbusinessesvia Rightmove as they did so. Home hunters continued to trust andvalueRightmoveastheplacetheyturntorstandreturn to most, as they searched for their next property and for a trustedagenttohelpwiththeirhome-movingjourney. The value that Rightmove’s customers and consumers derive from our products is delivered by our talented and adaptableteams,whoarecommittedtoexceedingtheir expectations and ensuring they receive a market-leading experience.OnbehalfoftheBoard,Iwouldliketothankall ourcustomersfortheircontinuedcondenceinRightmove, andourcolleaguesfortheirdedicationandhardwork. Johan Svanstrom succeeded Peter Brooks-Johnson as ChiefExecutiveOcer(CEO)inMarchinanorderlyand seamlesstransitionforwhichIwouldliketothankboth Peter and Johan. We set out the strategy for the business forthecomingve-yearperiodatourInvestorDayon 27 November, establishing the size of the opportunities for someofournewerstrategicbusinesses–CommercialReal Estate;MortgagesandRentalServices–aswellasthe ongoingopportunityforgrowthinourcorebusiness. Weprovidedclarityonthenancialandoperational targetswehavesetandtheaccelerationofrevenue andprotthattheserepresent. #### “ In a year of continued economic and global change and challenge, #### Rightmove once again demonstrated #### the resilience of its business model and the value its products and #### services provide to its customers.” Andrew Fisher Chair ![]() Rightmove plc | Annual Report 2023 | 5 STRATEGIC REPORT GOVERNANCE FINANCIAL STATEMENTS Looking ahead Our mission remains to continually innovate, to make property moving easier and simpler by giving everyone the best place to turn to – and return to – for access to the tools, data and expertise to successfully enable their move. Whilst continuing to focus on our core business of the UK domestic property market, our ambitions are to further invest into, and digitise, our existing but smaller business areas. These include enhanced advertising in the commercial real estate market, capturing value from our unique property data,improvingtherentaljourneyandoeringarangeof mortgage-related products. Iamlookingforwardtocontinuingtoworkwithourteamson our long-held strategy to deliver greater value for all our stakeholders in 2024. Andrew Fisher Chair 29 February 2024 (1)UnderlyingOperatingProtisdenedasoperatingprotbeforeshare-based payments charges (including the related National Insurance). (2)UnderlyingbasicEPSisdenedasprotfortheyearbeforeshare-based payments charges (including the related National Insurance and appropriate tax adjustments),dividedbytheweightedaveragenumberofordinarysharesin issue for the period. (3) Cash including money market deposits. JohanSvanstromwasappointedtotheBoardon20February 2023, and became CEO on 6 March 2023, bringing an impressivetrackrecordofgrowingestablishedbusiness-to- consumer online marketplace businesses. RakhiGoss-CustardsteppeddownfromtheBoardon5May 2023, having served her maximum term as a Non-Executive Director.IwouldliketothankRakhiforthesignicant contribution she made to the Board throughout her tenure andparticularlyforthedeepknowledgeofthecustomerand consumer experiences she brought from a range of other digital product and mobile platforms. KritiSharmawasappointedtotheBoardon25July2023. She brings internationally recognised expertise in AI and a strong record of building and transforming successful technology businesses and products for consumer, B2B and enterprisecompanies.SheiscurrentlyChiefProductOcer, LegalTech,forThomsonReutersandwasformerlytheVP ofArticialIntelligenceatFTSE100softwarecompany The Sage Group plc. Board governance The Corporate Responsibility Committee has continued to guide and oversee progress in the delivery of our Environmental, Social and Governance (ESG) strategy. I am delightedwiththelaunchofournewGoGreenerinitiative whichwillhelpprovideapathwaytogreenerpropertyinthe UK, recognising that Rightmove has the opportunity to not onlyfocusonitsownoperationsandemissionsbutto contribute, through its unique property market data and insights,tohelpingwiththeUK’stargettobecomeNetZero by 2050 (see the ESG report, page 30). The Audit Committee has overseen the selection of a newHeadofInternalAuditaswetransition,during2024, from outsourced internal audit to an inhouse function and has continued to monitor the second phase of the implementationofthenewEnterpriseResourcePlanning (ERP) system (see the Audit Committee report on page 79 for details). ![]() 6 | Rightmove plc | Annual Report 2023 6 | Rightmove plc | Annual Report 2023 Rightmove is the UK’s number one online digital property advertising and information portal, capturing86%ofalltimespentonpropertyportals–itistheplacepeoplecometowhenthey start to make their move. ### Business model ### Delivering value, generating value Strategic report | Business model #### ThetrustthatconsumershaveinRightmovemeansthatourplatformgetsovertwobillion #### visits a year – 85% of that comes directly from consumers searching the Rightmove brand itself. #### What we do In our core business,propertyprofessionals,suchasestateagents,lettingsagentsandnew homes builders, pay a subscription fee to advertise their properties on Rightmove. This includes digitaladvertisingproductsandtools,toincreasetheirproles,dierentiatethemselvesfrom theircompetitionandaccessouruniquemarketprolesdata.Asmallproportionofcustomers advertiseoverseasproperties.Forlettingsagentsweoerend-to-endtenancyservicesfrom referencing and insurance to broadband. Commercial agents, developers and landlords, from small retail units to large fund managers, also pay a subscription fee to advertise commercial property and space. Our extensive property market data is unparalleled and unique to Rightmove, as it derives from our 86% share of consumer time. We sell this to a range of customers: agents, landlords, surveyors, insurers, mortgage lenders, brokers and local authorities. We also provide valuation services and sell our unique and extensive property data. Throughourpartnersweprovidemortgage in principle (MiP)andbrokerservicestoconsumerswho wanttogaugeaordability,whichgeneratescommissionsforuswhenthemortgagecompletes. Arangeofbusinesseswhowanttoreachalargeaudience,inaquickandecientway,alsobuy advertising banners to display on the Rightmove platform. These customers include removal companies and schools. ![]() Rightmove plc | Annual Report 2023 | 7 STRATEGIC REPORT GOVERNANCE FINANCIAL STATEMENTS #### Network eect Ourleadingbrand,platformandthepowerfulnetworkeectofourconsumersand customers underpins the success of our business, and secures our strong and resilient position through all market cycles and industry events. One Rightmove Platform, crucially withmanyconnectednodes. #### Powered by data We obsess about continually innovating to provide exceptional value to customers, and an exceptional experience for consumers, through our superior data and platform, that delivers exceptionalvaluetoRightmove,andourshareholders,sowecanfurtherinvestininnovation anddigitisation.Thenetworkeectiscompoundingforallstakeholders. Commercial Rental Services Letting Agents New Homes Property Professionals Estate Agents Consumers Data Services Financial Services #### Rightmove #### Platform Mortgage in principle, a 45x data signal ![]() 8 | Rightmove plc | Annual Report 2023 Strategic report | Business model continued 8 | Rightmove plc | Annual Report 2023 #### How we create exceptional value for our stakeholders Ournetworkeectsareunrivalledand,throughourplatform,wecontinuallyandconsistently deliverexceptionalvaluetoconsumersandcustomers,meaningwegenerateexceptional value for Rightmove and its stakeholders. Our Platform’s tools, unique industry data and our consumer reach, through our access to the largest property moving audience in the UK, provide unrivalled data, property insights and marketing channels:grantingcustomersthemostsignicant andeectiveexposurefortheirownbrandsand properties,whichhelpsthemmaximisereturnsin theirownbusinesses. Customers Our ambitions and delivery through innovation generatessubstantialshareholdervalue:with operatingprotmarginsover70%,highcash conversionandarobustbalancesheet,weareable toinvesttodrivefuturegrowththroughincreased product penetration in our core businesses and the developmentofourstrategicgrowthareas. Shareholders We take responsibility in all our business relationships and seek to develop relationships that aremutuallybenecial.Withsupplierswecommit to prompt payment through the prompt payer code,andwithpolicymakersandregulatorswetake an open and transparent approach to ensuring that wecomplywithallrelevantregulations. Business Partners Rightmove is free to consumers and is at their ngertipswhentheyarelookingtomaketheirmove. Itistheonlyplacewheretheyseealmosttheentire UK property market in one place. They rely on the ease, speed and availability of our platform to providethemwithusefuldataandinformation to make their next move. Consumers OuremployeesdeneRightmove.Thecultureis open, innovative, supportive and value driven – employees live by our central behaviours of doing the right thing for customers, consumers and each other. Our policies and programmes support and enrich our employees: improving diversity, equity andinclusionwhilstaidingworkforcewell-being, retention and recruitment. Employees We are committed to the UK’s environmental agenda and leveraging the reach of our platform to help the UK Go Greener. We support communities throughcharityworkanddonationsandourgive backdays(paidleave)provideemployeeswiththe opportunity to volunteer for national, local and customer charities. Communities and environment ![]() Rightmove plc | Annual Report 2023 | 9 STRATEGIC REPORT GOVERNANCE FINANCIAL STATEMENTS Rightmove plc | Annual Report 2023 | 9 Strategic report | Our Strategy #### Our vision is to give everyone the belief that they can make their move Our Strategy To make moving easier and simpler, by giving everyone the best place to turn to – and return to – for access to the tools, expertise and trust to make it happen ![]() 10 | Rightmove plc | Annual Report 2023 10 | Rightmove plc | Annual Report 2023 Strategic report | Our Strategy continued #### The strategy to deliver our vision Our strategy is aligned to our vision and is to deliver exceptional value to our customers and consumers,whichinturnwillgenerategrowthandexceptionalvalueforourshareholders. It is underpinned by the existing scale and reach of the Rightmove platform, the brand strengthandthestructuraladvantageswithintheUKpropertymarket. Wedeliverourstrategyandplanthroughourfocusonourvestrategicpillars:Consumers, CoreCustomersandStrategicGrowthAreas,underpinnedbyourPlatformandourPeople. Strategic pillars 2023 20282024-2028 The place to nd a home online The moving journey assistant The home life partner Marketing, leads and eciency Deeper product partnership Seamlessly linked tech and data system Leveraging core platform Commercial, Data, Rental and Financial Services Group diversication Scaled and secure Cloud, Data and AI powered Powering of an industry Cultural and operational excellence Scaling innovation World class Consumers Core Customers The Rightmove Platform Strategic Growth Areas People Long-term structural trends in the UK property market Population size, lifespans, real estate values and adoption all keep going up – generating a multiplyingeconomiceectagainstthebackdropofanongoingshortageofhousingstock whichmaintainshousepricestability. ![]() Rightmove plc | Annual Report 2023 | 11 STRATEGIC REPORT GOVERNANCE FINANCIAL STATEMENTS #### Position and progress against strategic pillars during 2023 For consumerswearealreadytheplace theyturntorstandreturntomosttobuy and sell their homes. We can do much more and plan to be a broader journey assistant oeringfurtherproducts,evenmore digitisedworkows,improvedvisibility and better moving experiences. Progress in 2023 focused on making the consumer experience more personalised, including launching ‘Sent Enquiries’ to help peoplemanagetheirmove;newfeaturesto connectborrowerswithmortgagebrokers to get more advice; and creating ‘Track a Property’whichallowsinstantonline valuations for homes. Our core estate agency and new homes customers already rely on us to advertise and reach the largest audience to help them marketeectively,winmorebusinessand create more revenue streams through providingthemwithleads.Wehavelong establishedrelationshipsbutbelievewe can provide deeper product partnerships. Progress during 2023 included introducing newtoppackagesandlaunchingadigital Best Price Guide for estate agents, as wellasapremiumpriceguidethathas trackable alerts; launching Lead to Keys for letting agents; and starting Native SearchAdvertstonewhomesdevelopers, helping them get seen more. The Rightmove Platform is scaled and secure to enable it to handle very high websiteandapptracandlargedata sets, that come from being the only place that is available to see all UK properties in one place in the UK. Progressduring2023includedsignicant migration of nearly half of all platform services to the cloud, building the foundationforanewdataplatform; and exploring the opportunities of AI andtheintegrationofnewAItechnology into the platform. The Strategic Growth Areas all exist as business units today, and leverage the coreplatformandnetwork,butaresmall. They include commercial real estate, data, rentalandnancialservicesandallhave signicantopportunitiestobuildinto and further digitise. Progress during 2023 included starting workonanewcommercialplatform, more tailored to the needs of commercial consumers and customers; launching a newsubscriptionservicefordata intermediaries; and setting up our broker proposition to enable consumers to speak directly to a broker for advice. Our People underpineverythingwedo and the brand: they live by core values and are collaborative and innovative and committed to delivering continuous improvement to customers and consumers. Changes made during 2023, to ensure weattractandretainthebestpeople, included:refreshingthebenetspackage for employees and enhancing our training and development programmes, including mental health support. #### Consumers #### Core #### Customers #### The #### Rightmove #### Platform #### Strategic #### Growth #### AreasPeople ![]() 12 | Rightmove plc | Annual Report 2023 12 | Rightmove plc | Annual Report 2023 #### Our strategy includes leveraging the opportunities presented by #### AI and ensuring we are supporting the environment #### Go Greener is about enabling a more sustainable UK property industry – an #### industry accounting for 25% of total UK emissions (1) . Rightmove’s platform has the reach and audience, and vast amounts of unique property market data, to inform and facilitate action amongst stakeholders to help the drive to reduce the industry’s emissions. Articial Intelligence (AI) presentsasignicantopportunityforRightmove. WeareactivelyexploringandimplementingthebenetsthatgenerativeAI can deliver for our business, to further enhance the consumer experience andgeneratevalueforcustomers,whiledrivingpaceandinternaleciencies. Strategic report | Our Strategy continued (1) Source – UK Green Building Council. ![]() Rightmove plc | Annual Report 2023 | 13 STRATEGIC REPORT GOVERNANCE FINANCIAL STATEMENTS #### Our strategic model for growth Ourexistingmarket-leadingandpowerfulplatformprovidesuswiththebasistomakeour move into other areas of the value chain and into other property market segments. In2023ourfocuswasinthe‘nd’segmentofthevaluechangeandinthe‘residential’market, wherewehadnearlyallthelistings,alltheconsumers,alltheagentcustomersandamarket- leading product set – c90% of our revenues sit here. Inthemediumandlongterm,whilstneverlosingourfocusonourcorebusiness,thereare many other digitisation opportunities across the property industry for us to innovate and build into, selectively and logically: leveraging our brand equity, the consumer reach and engagement, the platform, and established relationships and partnerships – all underpinned by unique property data. Penetration into the value chain Penetration across the property market segments Residential Commercial Data monetisation Sales Lettings Sales Leasing Data Services Third Party Advertising Listings Listings Listings Listings Agents Developers Investors Display Mortgage Credit Check Mortgage Investment Data Lending Display Conveyancing, Surveys Reference Contract Deposit Conveyancing, Surveys, Consulting Professional Services Surveyors Display Removals, Home svcs Inventory, Removals, Home svcs Fit out, Removals Fit out, Removals Insurance, Inventory Display Renovations, Energy, Maintenance Rent payment, Maintenance Renovations Asset Management Renovations Energy Planning Display Current progress Lifecycle Move Transact Aord Find ![]() 14 | Rightmove plc | Annual Report 2023 Leading products and innovation for both consumers and customers Rightmove remained the place that consumers chose to turn torst,andengagewithmost,throughout2023.Over86% ofalltimespentonpropertyportalsintheUKwasspenton Rightmove (2022: 85%) (3) and Google continued to report thatmorepeoplestarttheirpropertysearcheswith ‘Rightmove’thanwith‘Property’. (4) Consumers visited the Rightmove platform over 2.2bn times during 2023 (2022: 2.3bn) and spent over 15.4bn minutes searching and researching properties (2022: 16.3bn). The reduction in both visitsandtimesince2022reectsthemorechallenging marketduring2023,howeverbothmetricsarewellabove pre-pandemiclevelsandshowthegrowingstrengthofthe Rightmove platform; up 38% and 27% respectively on 2019 (2019: 1.6bn visits, 12.1bn minutes). Consumers’ongoingchoiceofRightmovereectsour investment in continuous improvement of the platform’s features and the data that underpins it, and a determination toensurethateveryvisitisbothworthwhileandenjoyable. During2023,wefocusedonwaystogettoknowmoreabout ourconsumers–toallowustobetterpersonalisetheir experiencesandprovideeachvisitorwithrelevantcontent, expandingbeyondthepartofndingaproperty.Inaddition tosearchtools,weinvestedinexpandingtheresearchdata weprovidetoconsumers–suchasourHousePriceIndex, andourpublicationsofweeklymortgageupdatesanda quarterlyrentaltracker;allofwhichleverageourunique propertydata.Wesent3.6mconsumeremailseveryweek providing updates and insights on the property market. The extent of Rightmove’s consumer reach means that our customerscanadvertisetheirownbrandsandpropertiesto the largest property audience in the UK. With our suite of marketing products, customers see both outstanding and measurableresults.During2023,wecontinuedtoinvestin Dear Shareholders, OneyearinandIamdelightedtoreportcontinuedgrowth for Rightmove through 2023. With all the macro uncertainty, particularlyintheearlypartoftheyear,wehavedelivered notjuststrongnancialgrowth,butincreasedthequality andrangeofproductsandeciencytoolsweoertoour consumers and customers. We also reshaped our strategy, setting out an ambitious plan to expand our business, stretch our brand, and deliver meaningful acceleration in bothrevenuesandprotsoverthecomingveyears. Ournewvisionisto‘giveeveryonethebelieftheycan make their move’. Resilience of the business model through all cycles of the property market Thehousingmarketslowedsomewhatduring2023,reecting the increased interest rates and noisy economic backdrop, to 1.0 million (1) sales transactions (2022: 1.2 million). The most notable impact of the higher interest rate environmentwasincreasedcautiononthepartofbuyers and sellers. Although this prolonged the property cycle (thetimeittakesforasellertondabuyer)toanaverage of 59 days (2) (2022:37days),itremainedbroadlyinlinewith pre-pandemicmarkets(2019:66days).Inthisslower propertymarket,bothestateagentsandnewhomes developersneededtoworkhardertoclosesalesandwin newvendormandates.Nonetheless,theyremainedresilient and agile, and trusted the Rightmove platform and products toprovidethemwithmarketingsolutions,lead-generation opportunities and market data. As a result, our revenues increased by 10% on 2022. This continuedgrowthinamorechallengingmarket,aswellas during the post-pandemic years of more frenzied property market activity, demonstrates the robustness of our business model, and the return on investment our products provide to customers, in all cycles of the property market. Strategic report | Chief Executive’s review “ A year of continued growth, further investment in expanding the platform and providing unrivalled returns to both consumers and customers.” Johan Svanstrom ChiefExecutiveOcer ![]() Rightmove plc | Annual Report 2023 | 15 STRATEGIC REPORT GOVERNANCE FINANCIAL STATEMENTS newandimprovedproductstodeliverfurthercustomer value and to improve marketing opportunities. We enhanced ourtoppackageforestateagentswiththelaunchof OptimiserEdge,whichcontainstwoexclusiveproducts: Native Search Adverts (NSA), an interactive advert on the search results page that drives enhanced consumer engagement and the ability to re-target consumers; and a Premium version of our Price Guide that provides data- backed personalised reporting to support agents’ valuations. BothproductsexemplifyhowRightmovecandeliver unsurpassed value from the largest and deepest data set andreachintheUKmarket.Thetoppackagefornewhomes developers,Advanced,wasupgradedtoimprovethelookof videocontentwhichshowcasestheirdevelopments. Theextentofourconsumerreachalsoallowsustoprovide customerswithawealthofbehaviouraldatathroughour lead-generation products – Rightmove Discover and Local Valuation Alert – that increase the value of a Rightmove sales lead.Over60millionleadsweresentfromourplatform during 2023 – a reduction on 2022 (2022: 67 million) due to theslowermarketandbuyercaution,butastrong50% increase on 2019 (2019: 40 million) demonstrating the value of our ongoing investment in lead-generation products. More than marketing Customers get much more than marketing as part of their Rightmove membership. Our customer platform, Rightmove Plus, is designed to make running customers’ day-to-daybusinesseseasierandmoretimeecient, through managing their listings, accessing data and generating reports such as the Best Price Guide (used over 19 million times in 2023). Customers also have access totheRightmoveHubwhichprovidesmarket-leading professional training programmes for their employees. ThisincludesregularlyscheduledCPD-certiedwebinars: covering topics from the latest legislation and mandatory training requirements to changes in the market conditions (viewedover23,000timesduring2023);ahubofsupporting documents and material to research and read; and our free Ofqual-regulatedLevel3CerticateforEstateandLettings Agents(CELA),whichover3,000agentssigneduptoduring 2023. Agent managers can assign, track and ensure compliancewithtrainingacrosstheirteamsusingtheTeams ViewtoolwithintheHub.Currentlyover40,000individual agents are registered on the Rightmove Hub. Expanding our vision and strategy Our vision is to give everyone the belief they can make their move, and, to achieve that vision, our mission remains to make the move easier and simpler, by giving everyone access to the best tools, expertise and data to make it happen. Our strategy is ultimately to deliver exceptional value to both customers and consumers on the back of the broadest range of property data in the UK, fuelled by unsurpassed digital scale,whichinturnwillgenerategrowthandexceptional value for all our stakeholders. AswesetoutatourInvestorDayinNovember,wesee numerousopportunitiestoexpandtheRightmoveoering, beyond our ongoing focus on the core business of the residential property market segment. Although the core businesswillremainourprimarybusinessdriver,wehave nowsetourambitionineachofcommercialrealestate, rental services and mortgage generation. We are going deeperintothevaluechainwithinseveralpropertymarket segmentsandfurtherdigitisingprocessestogetherwith ourpartners:beyond‘nd’andinto‘aord’aswellasthe later stages of ‘transact’, ‘move’ and ‘lifestyle’. ![]() 16 | Rightmove plc | Annual Report 2023 Strategic report | Chief Executive’s review continued During2023,wemadeprogressineachofthesethree strategicgrowthareas.Inrentals,whichstandsforover50% of all moving journeys each year in the UK (5) ,wedevelopeda newsolution,wherebyarentalagreementcannowbe achievedinvedigitisedandconnectedsteps,bringing eciencytoallthreestakeholdersofconsumers,agentsand landlords.Innancialservices,wedoubledourrevenueby building out our digital mortgage in principle (MiP) tool, to provide greater volumes and higher-quality MiP leads to our lender partner. We also connected an estate agent broker to theonlineapplicationjourney;forthersttimeallowing consumerstoaccessmortgageadvicewithoutleavingour platform,byinnovatingtogetherwithouragentpartners. Finally,ourcommercialrealestatebusinesssawstrong double-digitgrowthaswebegantheprocessofcreating aworld-classdigitalcommercialreal-estateadvertising product.Weseesignicantlong-termopportunityby deepening the Rightmove commercial product set and delivering value to commercial landlords, tenants and brokers on a market leading and UK focused platform. Wehavestrongconvictionthatourstrategywillserveus welloverthemediumterm.Itisunderpinnednotonlyby ourbusinessmodelandnetworkeect,butbystructural tailwindsintheUKpropertymarket,whichhasashortage ofhousingstockrelativetodemand;agrowingpopulation; increasing lifespans; increasing real estate values, and ever- increasingdigitaladoption,allofwhichcreateamultiplier economiceect.Weareinvestinginourdataplatformand the enabling technologies of cloud, mobile and generative AI. We see opportunities to further strengthen our data moat andleadingnetworkeects,drivingdiscoveryandeciency forconsumersandcustomers,aswellasinternaloperations. Our vision to give everyone the belief that they can make their move is all encompassing. The Rightmove platform and datawillprovidetheproducts,dataandinsightsforanyone considering any property related move, delivering value to the entire ecosystem. Contributing to communities and the environment Givingbacktothecommunitiesinwhichweoperate,not only through volunteering and charitable giving, but through supporting the environment, is high on our agenda. We believe that Rightmove has not just the opportunity, but the responsibility, to provide insights to help the UK go greenerandtoacceleratechangetomeetitsNetZerotargets by 2050. The UK property market contributes 25% of total UK emissions (6) . Rightmove’s platform has the reach and audience,aswellasvastamountsofuniquepropertymarket data, to inform and facilitate action amongst stakeholders to drive the needed reduction in the sector emissions. We launched our Go Greener initiative in the second half of theyear,whichprovidesapathwaytogreenerpropertyin theUKanddenesthecentralpillarsofhowRightmovewill contribute: Greener Homes, Greener Data, Greener Buildings, Greener Rightmove. Our initiatives include supplying green property data and insights to better understand a property’s green credentials; becoming a trusted voice for consumers, customers and property professionalsastheyassessthechallengesandbenetsof making green improvements; and driving greener buildings by enabling commercial tenants and investors to discover sustainable buildings and opportunities. We also published our second Greener Homes report (7) inJuly,whichcombined millions of Rightmove’s property data points, from the last 15years,aswellasgovernmentdataandopinionsfrom thousandsofhomeowners,landlordsandrentersthatwe surveyed. The report provided suggestions and insights on the incentives that are needed to help people make green improvements. Rightmove, in parallel, is continuing its focus on improving its ownoperationalemissionsandtargets.In2023,weachieved ourthree-yearenvironmentaltargettoreduceouroce electricity tonnes of CO 2 by 10% and are ahead of plan on our ![]() targettohave75%ofeetcarsultra-lowemissionby2025, and 100% by 2028. We also completed a rebase of 2020 calculation methodology and data sets, to ensure consistencywithourlatestcarbonfootprintcalculation. Moving forward with the Rightmove team ThecommitmentandtalentoftheRightmoveteamwas oneofmyrstimpressionsonjoining,andithasendured. The team underpins Rightmove’s success. We have a performant culture that is inclusive, creative, innovative and collaborative. Our team is focused on delivering for our customers and consumers and driving improvement right acrossthebusiness.Workingandplayinghard,wellover80% ofemployeessaythat‘Rightmoveisagreatplacetowork’in the annual employee survey. Employeepolicesandbenetswerereviewedandenhanced duringtheyear:twoadditionaldaysannualholidayfor everyone,plustwofurther‘Rightmovegives-back’daysfor volunteering; increasing the employer pension contribution; andanincreasedcycletoworkallowance.Werefreshedand extendedourThriveprogrammewhichprovidessupportand traininginwell-being,mentalhealthandnancialmatters. DiversityiscoretoourPeopleagenda,benetting everyone and the business: bringing not only a more enjoyableworkplacebutabroaderrangeofperspectives, whichreecttheconsumersandcustomersweserveand promote innovation and business success. We continue to evolve our internal training on all aspects of diversity. Whilst wearepleasedthatcertainaspectshaveimproved,suchas our gender pay gap and the ethnic diversity of our employees reectingtheUKpopulation,webelieveandknowthereis alwaysmoretodo. IamproudofwhattheRightmoveteamdelivered,and equallyproudofourambitionsforthefuture–andwouldlike tothankeveryoneforthehardandhigh-qualityworkduring 2023.Ilookforwardtocontinuingtosupporttheteamin delivering further value to all stakeholders on our platform and progressing the ambitious Rightmove strategy. Johan Svanstrom ChiefExecutiveOcer 29 February 2024 (1) Residential property transactions in the UK recorded by the Land Registry. (2) Source – Rightmove Data Services. (3) Source: Comscore Mobile Metrix® Mobile App only, total Audience, Custom- denedlistofRightmove(MobileApp)andZooplaPropertySearch(MobileApp), January – December 2023, United Kingdom. (4) Source: Google analytics. (5) Based on number of private rented properties in the UK and average tenancy length (English Housing Survey 2022-2023). (6) Source – UK Green Building Council. (7) Source – Green Homes Report available at https://www.rightmove.co.uk/guides/energy-eciency/rightmove-greener- homes-report-2023/ Rightmove plc | Annual Report 2023 | 17 STRATEGIC REPORT GOVERNANCE FINANCIAL STATEMENTS ![]() 18 | Rightmove plc | Annual Report 2023 Number of advertisers 12000 13000 14000 15000 16000 17000 18000 19000 20000 21000 18,969 19,014 18,785 19,809 19,197 2021 2022 2023 2019 2020 Denition The total number of paid-for UK estate and lettings Agency branches/branchequivalentsandNewHomedevelopersites advertising properties on Rightmove. Strategic link Theplaceconsumersturntorstandengagewithmost;and innovationtocreateasimplerandmoreecientmarketplace. 2023 performance -1 % Risks 2 1 3 Source: Rightmove Traffic (time on site measured in billions of minutes) 10.4 11.4 12.4 13.4 14.4 15.4 16.4 17.4 18.4 19.4 12.1 15.9 16.3 15.4 18.3 2021 2022 2019 2020 2023 Denition Total time measured in billions of minutes spent on Rightmove platforms during the year. Strategic link Theplaceconsumersturntorstandengagewithmost. 2023 performance -6 % Risks 2 3 4 Source: Google Analytics Average revenue per advertiser – ARPA (£ per month) 0 300 600 900 1200 1500 1,088 1,189 1,314 1,431 778 2021 2022 2023 2019 2020 Denition RevenuefromAgencyandNewHomeadvertisersinagiven month divided by the total number of advertisers during the month, measured as a monthly average over the year. Strategic link Unrivalled exposure, leads and products for our customers. 2023 performance +9 % Risks 2 1 3 Source: Rightmove Employee engagement 0 20 40 60 80 100 81% 93% 87% 88% 89% 2021 2022 2019 2020 2023 Denition Based on the number of employee respondents selecting ‘Yes’ as aresponsetothequestion‘Rightmoveisagreatplacetowork’in the annual employee survey. Strategic link Buildgreatteamswithaculturetoinnovate. 2023 performance +1 Percentage points Risks 6 Source: Rightmove 1 Macroeconomic environment 4 Cyber security and IT systems 2 Competitive environment 5 Regulatory risks 3 Newordisruptivetechnologiesandchanging consumer behaviours 6 Securing and retaining the right talent Principal risks relevant to our KPIs (read more on principal risks on pages 60 to 63) #### Weusethemetricssetoutbelowtotrackouroperationalperformance. Strategic report | Operational key performance indicators ![]() Rightmove plc | Annual Report 2023 | 19 0 50 100 150 200 250 300 350 400 289.3 205.7 304.9 332.6 364.3 Revenue £m 2021 2022 2019 2020 2023 Revenuegrewby10%yearonyearto£364.3m (2022: £332.6m) 2023 performance +10 % Risks 1 2 3 4 Source: Rightmove Underlying basic EPS (pence per ordinary share) 10 12 14 16 18 20 22 24 26 2021 2022 2019 2020 2023 12.8 21.8 23.8 25.2 20.3 Underlyingbasicearningspershare(EPS)isdenedasprotforthe year before share-based payments charges (including the related National Insurance and appropriate tax adjustments), divided by the weightedaveragenumberofordinarysharesinissuefortheperiod. Underlying basic EPS increased by 6% to 25.2p (2022: 23.8p). BasicEPSgrewby5%to24.5p(2022:23.4p) 2023 performance +6 % Risks 1 2 3 4 5 Source: Rightmove 0 50 100 150 200 250 300 219.7 245.4 264.6 137.5 231.0 Underlying operating profit £m 2021 2022 2019 2020 2023 Underlyingoperatingprotincreasedby8%to£264.6m (2022:£245.4m)withunderlyingoperatingmargin (1) at 73% (2022: 74%) Operatingprotincreasedby7%to£258.0m(2022:£241.3m) withoperatingmargin (1) at 71% (2022: 73%) 2023 performance +8 % Risks 1 2 3 4 5 Source: Rightmove Cash returned to shareholders £m 0 50 100 150 200 250 300 2021 2022 2023 2019 2020 30.1 238.8 197.7 201.7 148.5 Duringtheyearfreecashowwasreturnedtoshareholdersinthe formofsharebuybacksanddividendswithcashreturnstotalling £201.7m (2022: £197.7m). 2023 performance +2 % Risks 1 2 3 4 5 Source: Rightmove (1)Underlyingoperatingmargin:whichisdenedastheunderlyingoperatingprotasapercentageofrevenue. #### Weusethemetricssetoutbelowtotrackournancialperformance. Strategic report | Financial key performance indicators STRATEGIC REPORT GOVERNANCE FINANCIAL STATEMENTS 1 Macroeconomic environment 4 Cyber security and IT systems 2 Competitive environment 5 Regulatory risks 3 Newordisruptivetechnologiesandchanging consumer behaviours 6 Securing and retaining the right talent ![]() 20 | Rightmove plc | Annual Report 2023 Strategic report | Financial review Revenue Revenueincreasedby£31.7m/10%on2022,to£364.3m (2022: £332.6m), due to increased demand for our products andpackageswithinEstateAgencyandNewHomes,annual priceincreasesandgrowthintheOtherbusinessunits. 2023 £m 2022 £m Change vs 2022 £m Change vs 2022 % Agency 262.0 247.3 14.7 6% NewHomes 66.4 52.6 13.8 26% Other 35.9 32.7 3.2 10% Total revenue 364.3 332.6 31.7 10% 2023 2022 Change vs 2022 Change vs 2022 % Agency branches 15,839 15,932 (93) (1%) NewHomes developments 2,946 3,082 (136) (4%) Total membership 18,785 19,014 (229) (1%) Agencyrevenuesincreasedto£262.0m,up6%/£14.7mon 2022, as agents continued to invest in additional products andupgradedtheirpackages,aswellastheannualprice increasesfromcontractrenewals.AgencyARPA (1) increasedto£1,356–up6%/£78on2022(2022:£1,278). Agencycustomernumbersendedtheyearbroadlyatat 15,839–down1%/93comparedto2022(2022:15,932). NewHomesrevenue,at£66.4m,wasup26%/£13.8mon 2022,reectingsignicantupgradestotheAdvanced package, incremental purchase of products, and successful contractrenewals.NewHomesARPA (2) increased to £1,825perdevelopmentpermonth,up21%/£312on2022 (2022: £1,513). Development numbers ended the year at 2,946–adecreaseof4%/136on2022(2022:3,082). Outsidethecorebusiness,ourotherbusinessunitsalsogrew by£3.2m/10%inaggregate,ledbyourStrategicGrowth Businesses.Mortgagesrevenuesdoubled,growingbyover 130% (3) , as more consumers completed their transactions withamortgageinitiallysecuredthroughourMiPproduct. CommercialRealEstaterevenuesgrewby15% (4) , driven by The majority (c60%) of revenue growth from the core business was from incremental product uptake and package upgrades, leading to higher ARPA. Development numbers in New Homes also contributed, being 5% higher on average throughout 2023 than the average members during 2022. The percentage of total revenue from New Homes increased to 18% (2022: 16%). The contribution from Agency to total revenue was 72% (2022: 74%), reecting the semi-countercyclical nature of the Agency and New Homes businesses, with developers increasing marketing activity in response to the changing market conditions during 2023. Revenue (£m) vs 2022 0 50 100 150 200 250 300 350 0.8 332.6 27.7 3.2 364.3 Dec 2022 Dec 2023 Customers Other revenue ARPA Revenue by segment (%) Agency New Homes Other 72 18 10 “ A strong nancial performance, against an uncertain economic backdrop, driven by the resilient and growing demand for Rightmove’s products and services that deliver exceptional value for customers and consumers.” Alison DolanChiefFinancialOcer highercustomernumbers,andhigherARPAreecting increased spending on digital products – multi-channel marketing campaigns and banner adverts in particular. ![]() Rightmove plc | Annual Report 2023 | 21 STRATEGIC REPORT GOVERNANCE FINANCIAL STATEMENTS Administration costs Administrationcostsof£106.3mwereup£15.0m/16%from £91.3m in 2022. Underlying operating costs (5) (denedasoperatingcosts before the inclusion of share-based payments charges and relatedNationalInsuranceof£6.5m)were£99.7m–an increaseof£12.5m/14%on2022(2022:£87.2m). The increase is due primarily to: •£8mhigherpayrollcosts:reectingincreasedheadcount of 12% (average 727 vs 647 in 2022) and the impact of the annualsalaryincrease(7%),partiallyosetbyreduced contractorcostsasroleswerelledthroughouttheyear; • £2m higher Tech costs: mostly from increased spend on consultancy around AI; migration of our data centres to the Cloud; infrastructure maintenance and higher costs for softwarelicencesfollowingtheincreasedheadcount. •£2mofincreasedoverheadcosts:generalinationacross rentandutilities,professionalfeesandstaexpenses; higher spend on legal and professional fees; and larger doubtfuldebtchargesreectingtheimpactofthe challengingmarketdynamicsonsmalleragentswith more payment plans utilised during the year; and • £0.5m increased depreciation and amortisation charges: reectingincreasedsoftwareamortisationfollowingthe full-year impact, and ongoing capitalisation, of MiP and ERP development costs. The share-based payments charge of £6.5m increased by£2.4mon2022(2022:£4.1m)reectingnewawards, accelerated charges for good leavers and the impact of the increase in the share price during the year on the national insurance charge. Operating prot 2023 £m 2022 £m Change vs 2022 £m Change vs 2022 % Revenue 364.3 332.6 31.7 10% Admin costs (106.3) (91.3) (15.0) 16% Operating prot 258.0 241.3 16.7 7% Operating margin % 71% 73% Operatingprotof£258.0mincreasedby7%/£16.7mon2022, withanoperatingprotmarginfor2023of71%(2022:73%). UnderlyingOperatingProt (6) of £264.6m increased by 8%/£19.2mcomparedto2022(2022:£245.4m),withan underlyingoperatingprotmargin (7) of 73% (2022: 74%). Earnings per share (EPS) Basic EPS increased by 5% to 24.5p (2022: 23.4p), driven by theincreaseinprotandcontinuanceofthesharebuyback programme,whichreducedtheweightedaveragenumberof ordinary shares in issue to 813.3m (2022: 835.3m). Underlying basic EPS (8) (based on underlying operating prot (6) ) increased by 6% to 25.2p (2022: 23.8p). Taxation Theconsolidatedeectivetaxratefortheyearended 31December2023was23.3%(2022:18.9%),slightly belowtheUK’sblendedstandardratefortheyearof 23.5% (2022: 19.0%). All tax matters are managed to ensure that the right amount oftaxispaidandcollectedattherighttime,inlinewithall applicabletaxlawsandtherewerenooverduetaxesatthe year end. As in prior years, the total of UK taxes paid and collected by theGroupissignicantlymorethanthecorporationtaxpaid onUKprots.Rightmove’stotaltaxcontributiontotheUK Exchequerwas£148.4min2023(2022:£119.8m).Ofthis, £69.1m (2022: £52.2m) related to taxes borne by the Group, whiletheremaining£79.2m(2022:£67.6m)wascollectedin respect of payroll taxes and net VAT. The increase in total tax contribution compared to the prior year is primarily due to theriseincorporationtaxrateto25.0%eective1April 2023,andhigheroperatingprot,whichimpactedbothVAT and corporation tax. Rightmove’s tax strategy can be found ontheircorporatewebsite. VAT IPTEmployment taxes Taxes collected 2023 (%) 0.3 79.7 20.0 Taxes borne 2023 (%) 1.6 1.2 Corporation tax Employment taxes Business rates Stamp duty and other 88.2 9.0 ![]() 22 | Rightmove plc | Annual Report 2023 Balance sheet Summary consolidated statement of nancial position 2023 £m 2022 £m Change £m Property, plant and equipment 9.4 10.4 (1.0) Intangible assets 21.8 22.1 (0.3) Deferred tax asset 2.4 1.5 0.9 Trade and other receivables 31.5 26.6 4.9 Contract assets 0.8 0.5 0.3 Income tax receivable 0.2 0.6 (0.4) Money market deposits 5.2 5.0 0.2 Cash 33.6 35.1 (1.5) Trade and other payables (24.7) (20.9) (3.8) Contract liabilities (2.5) (2.3) (0.2) Lease liabilities (7.5) (9.6) 2.1 Provisions (0.8) (0.8) 0.0 Net assets 69.4 68.2 1.2 Rightmove’sbalancesheetat31December2023showsnet assets and total equity at £69.4m (2022: £68.2m), including cash and money market deposits of £38.8m (2022: £40.1m). Trade and other receivables of £31.5m increased by £4.9m onDecember2022,primarilyreectinghigherrevenuesin 2023 increasing trade receivables to £24.5m (2022: £20.9m), aswellassomeageingofdebts,withdebtordaysfortheyear at 24 (2022: 23 days). The remaining increase in other receivablesreectsthetimingofprepaymentsandquarterly interest receivable on cash and money market deposits. Trade and other payables of £24.7m increased £3.8m due to the timing of expenditure and invoices received for both trade and capital expenditure purchases, and higher year end creditorsforVATandsocialsecuritypayments;wherethe increases are driven by higher revenues and increased headcount. Payments to suppliers continued to be made on atimelybasis:onaveragewithin19days(2022:17days). Cash ow and liquidity Rightmove remained debt free during 2023 and cash generationremainedstrong,at104%ofOperatingProt (9) (2022: 101%). Cash generated from operating activities increased by £24.0m to £268.2m (2022: £244.2m). The closing cash balance, including money market deposits, was£38.8m(2022:£40.1m).Surpluscashcontinuestobe invested in short term, easily accessible money market deposits, including in a green money market fund. The Group bought back and cancelled 24.0m ordinary shares during the year (2022: 22.3m), at a cost of £130.9m (including expenses) as part of its ongoing share buyback programme (2022: £130.9m). Dividends totalling £71.7m in relation to thenal2022dividendpaymentandinterim2023payment werealsopaidduringtheyear(2022:£67.7m). Shareholder returns Consistentwithourprogressivedividendpolicy,theDirectors arerecommendinganaldividendof5.7pperordinaryshare, whichwilltakethetotaldividendfortheyearto9.3p–growth of9%onthe2022dividend.Itwillbepaidon24May2024to all shareholders on the register on 26 April 2024. Alison Dolan ChiefFinancialOcer 29 February 2024 (1) Agency ARPA is calculated as revenue from Agency advertisers in a given month divided by the total number of advertisers during the month, measured as a monthly average over the year. (2)NewHomesARPAiscalculatedasrevenuefromNewHomesdevelopersinagivenmonthdividedbythetotalnumberofdevelopersduringthemonth,measuredasa monthly average over the year. (3)Mortgagerevenuegrowthofover130%resultedinrevenueof£2.2mforthe2023nancialyear. (4)Commercialrevenuegrowthof15%resultedinrevenueof£12.2mforthe2023nancialyear. (5)Underlyingcostsaredenedasadministrativeexpensesbeforeshare-basedpaymentscharges(includingtherelatedNationalInsurance). (6)Underlyingoperatingprotisdenedasoperatingprotbeforeshare-basedpaymentscharges(includingtherelatedNationalInsurance). (7)Underlyingoperatingmarginisdenedastheunderlyingoperatingprotasapercentageofrevenue. (8)UnderlyingbasicEPSisdenedasprotfortheyearbeforeshare-basedpaymentscharges(includingtherelatedNationalInsuranceandappropriatetaxadjustments), dividedbytheweightedaveragenumberofordinarysharesinissuefortheperiod. (9)Cashgeneratedfromoperatingactivitiesof£268.2m(2022:£244.2m)comparedtooperatingprotasreportedintheincomestatementof£258.0m(2022:£241.3m). Strategic report | Financial review continued ![]() Rightmove plc | Annual Report 2023 | 23 STRATEGIC REPORT GOVERNANCE FINANCIAL STATEMENTS Strategic report | Section 172 Statement – Working with our stakeholders Section 172 Statement The Board recognises that maintaining a strong relationship anddialoguewithstakeholdersiscriticaltodelivering sustainablegrowthoverthelongterm.Theinterestsofall stakeholdersareconsideredcarefullybytheBoardandwider businesswhenmakingdecisions,andtheirpotentialimpact. IncompliancewithSection172(1)oftheCompaniesAct 2006, each of the Board’s Directors acts and makes decisions inthewaytheyconsider,ingoodfaith,wouldbemostlylikely topromotethesuccessofRightmove,forthebenetofthe Group’smembersasawhole.IndoingsotheDirectorshave regard, among other matters, to the: • likely consequences of any decisions in the long term; • interests of the company’s employees; •needtofosterthecompany’sbusinessrelationshipswith suppliers, customers and others; • impact of the company’s operations in the community and the environment; • desirability of the company maintaining a reputation for high standards of business conduct; and •needtoactfairlybetweenmembersofthecompany. TheBoardoperateswithinacorporategovernance frameworkthatprovidesaclearstructurefordecision making,andwhichallowsday-to-daymanagementtobe undertakenecientlyandwithinappropriatecontrols. The Board delegates authority for day-to-day management to the CEO and senior leadership but the responsibility for execution of this delegated authority and monitoring is retained by the Board. Board decisions are made through the consideration and discussion of reports received (in advance of each Board meeting); presentations made to the Board; and conversationsandmeetingswithstakeholders.Whilethe Boardalwaysseekstoensurethatdecisionoutcomeswill benetallstakeholdergroups,itrecognisesthat,as stakeholderprioritiesarewiderangingandsometimes conict,itisnotalwayspossibletodoso.Therefore,itseeks to take decisions that it believes are most likely to provide resultsthatdeliverthestrategyandsowillservethe interests of all stakeholders over the long term. Furtherinformationonhowtheprinciplesthatunderpin Section172arereectedacrossthewiderbusinessiscross referencedbelow: ### Engaging with stakeholders ### Decisionsmadeforthebenetofourstakeholders Section 172 matter Location for more information The likely consequences of any decisions in the long term • Business Model and Our Strategy (pages 6 to 13) • Risk Management and PRU (page 57) The interests of the company’s employees • Stakeholder engagement (page 27) • ESG – Our Employees: Diversity, Inclusion and equity (page 45) • Remuneration Committee Report (page 94) The need to foster the company’s businessrelationshipswith suppliers, customers and others • Business Model and Our Strategy (pages 6 to 13) • Stakeholder engagement (pages 23 to 29) • ESG – governance: code of conduct, anti-bribery and corruption (pages 53 to 55) The impact of the company’s operations on the community and environment • Business Model (page 6) • ESG – environment: Go Greener and TCFD (page 33) • Stakeholder engagement (page 29) The desirability of the company maintaining a reputation for high standards of business conduct • Risk Management (page 57) and Audit Committee report (page 79) • ESG – Governance (page 53) • Director’sReport(page116)Non-nancialandsustainabilityinformationstatement(page32) Theneedtoactfairlyasbetween members of the company • Stakeholder engagement – shareholders (page 24) • ESG – Our employees: People and Culture ( page 45) ThefollowingpagesoutlinehowtheBoardandwiderbusinessengagedwithourstakeholdersduringtheyear;explaining whoourstakeholdersare,theirinterests,theoutcomeofBoardengagementandtheBoard’sdecision-makingprocess. ![]() 24 | Rightmove plc | Annual Report 2023 Strategic report | Section 172 Statement – Working with our stakeholders continued Shareholders Shareholdersaretheownersof the Company. They include institutional investors, employees and private individuals. Investor condenceensurescontinued access to capital and maintaining anopenandtrusteddialoguewith current and potential investors is a priority. What matters to them? Rightmove’sshareholdersareconcernedwithvaluecreation,thebusinessmodeland deliveryofthestrategy.Theyneedreportingofnancialresultsandfutureprospectstobe fair,balancedandunderstandableandexpectlong-termgrowthinnancialperformance, returns to shareholders and the share price. Shareholders expect robust governance, eectiveriskmanagement,strongleadershipandculture,andafocusonenvironmental and social matters. How Rightmove engages Shareholder communication is through a comprehensive investor relations programme, using a range of direct and indirect channels: the annual report and results presentations, withQ&Asessions;investorroadshows,events,callsandmeetings;theAGM;LSE regulatorynewsannouncementsandpressreleases;andthroughourinvestorwebsite. MeetingswithBoardmembersandseniorleadershipcanbearrangedonrequest. The Board’s investor relations activity is set out in the Corporate Governance section on page 76. How feedback reaches the Board and senior management • TheChairandExecutiveDirectorsholdone-to-onemeetingswithshareholders and analysts • InvestorpresentationsandQ&Asessionsathalf-yearandfull-yearresults • ConsultationwithinvestorsregardingtheRemunerationPolicy(January2023) • InvestorDay(November2023)allowedBoardmemberstotalkdirectlywithinvestors • External advisors prepare and present investor relations reports and shareholder analysis at Board meetings • OurCorporateCommunicationsagency,Powerscourt,seeksperiodicinvestorfeedback and feeds back to Executive Directors. Outcomes and value created in 2023 • Updated 2023 Remuneration Policy using feedback from investors • Growthinreturnstoshareholdersthroughsharebuybacksanddividends • Q&Aopportunity,attheInvestorDay,withtheRightmoveleadershipteamregarding the Group’s strategy, business model and plans for investment • CorporateResponsibilityCommitteeapprovedanupdatedESGstrategy,inlinewith shareholder expectations of being a responsible and sustainable company. Case study: Investor Event On 27 November 2023 the Rightmove Group Leadership Team hosted an Investor Day at the London Stock Exchange. CEO Johan Svanstrom and CFO Alison Dolan led the presentations of Rightmove’s vision, businessmodelandstrategy,andansweredquestionsfrominvestorsandanalysts.Ourstrategicgrowth model is outlined on page 13. The event included break-out sessions to explore and explain our products in detail, including Rightmove Plus and Rental Services, and presentations on Product, Data and Technology, EstateAgencyandNewHomes,MortgagesandCommercialRealEstate. #### Engagement with our stakeholders Rightmove’s stakeholders are its shareholders, customers, consumers, employees, business partners and communities in whichourocesarelocated(includingtheenvironment).Thefollowingpagesexplainthestakeholders’interests;provide examplesofhowweengagedwiththemduringtheyearandhowfeedbackreachedtheBoardandseniormanagement,as wellassomeexamplesofoutcomesofdecisionsmadehavingconsideredthisfeedback. ![]() Rightmove plc | Annual Report 2023 | 25 STRATEGIC REPORT GOVERNANCE FINANCIAL STATEMENTS Customers Our customers are principally estateandlettingsagentsornew homedeveloperswhopayto advertise properties for sale or to rent on Rightmove platforms. Some customers operate overseas and some deal in commercial real estate. They rely on Rightmove’s reach to access the largest property hunting audience to help them market eectivelyandwinmore business. Customers also include property professionals, such as surveyors and mortgage lenders, whobuyourvaluationandunique property data and tools. What matters to them? CustomersexpecthighlevelsofserviceandvalueformoneyfromRightmove,whichincludes innovativenewproductsthathelpthemmaintainandbuildtheirownbusinesses.They expectanexceptionalcustomerexperience:withstrongrelationshipswiththeiraccount managers and a responsive, helpful and friendly service from our customer services team. How Rightmove engages Engagingwithcustomersisconstant,carriedoutthroughouraccountdirectors,managers and customer experience teams. The Rightmove Hub, our dedicated client portal, provides webinars,training,andotherresourcesforcustomerstoaccessonline.Seniorleadership withinthesalesandproductdevelopmentteamsconductin-personsurveysonaperiodic basistounderstandwhatmatterstocustomers,whilealsoreviewingweeklydataupdates informing them of customer activity. How feedback reaches the Board and senior management • The CEO reports to the Board on customer sentiment and retention at every scheduled Boardmeeting;in2023,thisincludedtheoutcomefromadeepdiveprojectofeld- basedinterviewstoexplorecustomersentiment • Accountdirectorsreviewquarterlycustomersentimentanalysisreportsandholdweekly pods to discuss actions needed • Sales reports, business and strategy updates from area and regional client account managers • Results of monitoring of client satisfaction and feedback surveys • MonthlyBoardreportandmanagementreportwhichincludecustomeractivityand nancialresults. Outcomes and value created in 2023 • DirectcontactanddiscussionsbetweenExecutiveDirectorsandseveralcustomersto update our understanding of customer interests and concerns • LeadtoKeyspropositionlaunchedmakingthelettingsprocessassimpleandecientas possible for our customers • LaunchingthedigitalBestPriceGuide,aswellasapremiumpriceguidethathastrackable alerts, for estate agents • ReleaseofAdManager-aself-servicetoolreleasedtoNewHomescustomersthisyear, allowingthemtouploadtheirownartworkwithouthavingtocontactCustomerServices. • FreequalicationCerticateforEstateandLettingsAgentsQualication(CELA)forall customers’ employees. Case study: Listening to customers and taking action Ourmarketingresearchteamconductedresearchwithagencycustomerstounderstandwhichfeaturesthey wouldmostvalueinnewproductsandpackages.Oneoftheinsightsrevealedthatagentswantedtobeable tomakechangestotheirproductsuitethemselves,online.Asaresult,welaunchedAdManagerwithinthe customerplatform,RightmovePlus,during2023,allowingthemtomanagechangestoanybrandingproducts online,withouthavingtocallin.Estateagentsalsosaidtheywantedtobeabletobettershowcasetheirown brandbyusingvideosontheRightmovesearchpage;andwelaunchedNativeSearchAds.35%ofagentsare engagingwithNativeSearchAdsaspartofourtoplevelpackage. ![]() 26 | Rightmove plc | Annual Report 2023 Strategic report | Section 172 Statement – Working with our stakeholders continued Consumers Our consumers rely on Rightmove for tools to search for property (to buy, sell or let) and for data to access our unique property information. They spent over 15.4 billion minutes (about 29,000 years) on Rightmove platforms in 2023 and their trust and condenceinRightmove underpins our business model. What matters to them? Consumerswantaccesstodataandtoolstoprovidethemwiththeinformationneeded tomove.Theywantthistobeeasilyaccessible,accurateandeasytonavigate,andwhere possiblepersonalisedtothem:withdigitisedworkowsthatprovidethemwithsimpler moving experiences. How Rightmove engages Engagementwithconsumerstakesanumberofforms,asweprioritiseprovidingthehighest quality experience on our platform: experience design teams conduct user testing on existingandnewfeatures,gatheringfeedbackfromthousandsofpeopleusingourplatform; regular communications are sent via email about the housing market and helpful home- movingguidesandtools,aswellasaskingconsumersabouttheirplansformovingnowand in the future. Consumer support teams respond to consumer queries on matters such as propertyadvertisementsanddataqualityandwealsomonitorconsumeractivitythrough real-timetracandconsumerbehaviourdata. How feedback reaches the Board and senior management • Presentationsonthedevelopmentofnewconsumerproductsandservices • Salesreports,KPIsandnancialresults • Monthly Board and management reports update on customer engagement and activities • Industry metrics and consumer analysis. Outcomes and value created in 2023 • Launch of Sent Enquiries to help people more easily track and manage their move • Introductionofnewfeaturestoconnectborrowerswithmortgagebrokerstoaccess more advice • CreationofTrackaProperty,whichallowsinstantonlinevaluationsforhomesthat people are interested in • Investment in enlarging our product development teams to further accelerate the pace ofnewproductdeliveryandenhancedcontent. Case study: Listening to consumers Development of the Commercial Platform Duringtheyearweincreased our focus on, and increased our investment in, our proposition for commercial real estate consumers. AnewteamandMDforthe Commercialbusinesswere recruited and the platform is being updatedtoreecttheparticular and varying requirements of movers looking to buy or sell commercial real estate. Mortgage broker proposition launched InNovember2023welauncheda newmortgagebrokerservice, oeringmorechoicetoconsumers by further enhancing our existing directtolenderservicewiththe option of an introduction to a mortgagebroker/adviser.This servicewillbefurtherexpanded during 2024. Track My Property released Anewfeatureforconsumers,Track MyProperty,wasreleasedproviding home hunters the ability to track all properties they are interested in, as wellasreceiveanestimateofwhat it’scurrentlyworth.Thiswillhelp them organise their information and navigate directly to properties that interest them. ![]() Rightmove plc | Annual Report 2023 | 27 STRATEGIC REPORT GOVERNANCE FINANCIAL STATEMENTS Employees Rightmove directly employs almost 800 people in the UK, acrossocesinLondon,Milton KeynesandNewcastle,anda eld-basedaccountmanagement team. Our success is underpinned byourpeople,whodeliverour results, and relies upon us attracting, developing and retainingnewtalent,providing an inclusive and diverse culture, whilstunderstandingwhat matters to them. What matters to them? Employeescareaboutworkinginadiverse,equitableandinclusiveworkplaceandbeingfairly compensatedfortheworktheydo.Theyexpecttraining,andopportunitiestogrowand develop, in a culture that means they can be themselves. Rightmove’s position on and contributiontoenvironmentalmatters,itsnancialperformanceandreputationarealso important to our people and prospective employees. How Rightmove engages Our Non-Executive Directors hold annual employee feedback sessions to discuss a range of employee-relatedmatters,whileemployeesurveysarecarriedouteverysixmonths,with theChiefPeopleOcerfollowinguponthemeswithteams.Eachmonth,TownHallsessions areledbytheCEOandattendedbytheleadershipteamandotherspeakers,oeringQ&A opportunitiesforeveryone.Theyearisroundedowithaseriesofannualemployee, in-personconferencesthatbothlookbackovertheyearandlookforwardviathebusinessplan. How feedback reaches the Board and senior management • The results of bi-annual employee engagement surveys are discussed at Board meetings • BoardbriengsfromExecutiveDirectorsandtheChiefPeopleOcer • Employee consultation sessions and direct engagement during site visits by the Board – see page 49 to read more about employee engagement • TheRemunerationCommitteeChairmetwithemployeestodiscusstheirviewsonpay and Executive remuneration. Outcomes and value created in 2023 • Ongoingannualinationarypayincreaseof4%eectivefromJanuary2024;freeshare awardforeveryemployeeworthapproximately£3,000andanopportunitytojointhe annual Sharesave scheme • Refreshedbenetsfor2024announced:withtwoadditionaldaysofholidayandlong servicerecognition,thelaunchofavolunteeringschemesupportedbytwodaysofpaid leave,increasedcycletoworkallowance,EVchargersinstalledatoces • Continued charitable giving, community support and matched funding of £234,000 in 2023 – please turn to page 52 in the ESG report for full details • Ongoinginvestmentintraininganddevelopment:withthe‘Thrive’wellnessprogramme andcounsellingonemotionalornancemattersavailabletoallemployeesandanewkey leaders programme. Case study: Thrive Wellness Programme ThriveisouremployeewellnessprogrammetoensurethateveryoneatRightmovefeelsthattheycan belongandcontributetoasafeenvironment,whilstsupportingeachother’smentalhealthandwell-being. Thriveisacombinationofawarenessevents,personaldevelopmenteducationsessionsand1:1coaching opportunities and is open to everyone. See page 51 in the ESG Report for further details. ![]() 28 | Rightmove plc | Annual Report 2023 Strategic report | Section 172 Statement – Working with our stakeholders continued Business Partners Rightmove takes responsibility inallitsdealingswithother businesses, industry and Government bodies, seeking to develop open and trusted relationshipsand,with regulators, ensuring compliance withallrelevantregulations. Our suppliers are instrumental inensuringwehavecontinuity of service and can continue to deliver to customers and consumerswhilstpolicymakers, regulators and industry bodies are all critical in ensuring that wefullyunderstand,andare compliantwith,matters aectingus. What matters to them? Suppliersareconcernedthatweoperatewithfairsupplieragreementsandterms, ensurethatwepaypromptlywithintermsandthatworkingrelationshipsare collaborative.PolicymakersandregulatorsareconcernedwithRightmove’scompliance withthelawandtheadoptionofbestpractice.Allourpartnerslookforcooperationand openandcollaborativeworkingrelations. How Rightmove engages Supplier management and engagement by senior leadership is underpinned by procurementprocessestoonboardnewsuppliers,whichincludediscussionof,and agreementwith,ourSupplierCodeofConduct,alongwithotherwaysofworking. Seniorleadershipengagewithindustrybodiesandpolicymakersthroughacombination of direct and indirect consultation, either in person or through organised conversations andwebinars.Wealsofrequentlyvolunteertoprovidebusinessinformationtoindustry bodies and Government to support research and consultation activities. How feedback reaches the Board and senior management •Thebi-annualreportingofpaymentpracticesisreviewedbytheAuditCommittee •Directorandseniormanagementmeetingswithsuppliers •Businessupdatesandnancialreports,includingcosts •Regulators’briengs,guidanceand‘DearCEO’letters • Attendance at industry and regulator events •Boardbriengonlegalactivitywithindustryandgovernmentbodies. Outcomes and value created in 2023 • Ongoing voluntary public reporting of Rightmove Payment Practices: paying suppliers on time, and, from October 2023, sign up to the Prompt Payment Code (small business commissioner) •99%ofsupplierswhoparticipatedinoursupplierduediligenceprocesssignedupto our Supplier Code of Conduct • Robust procurement policy and supplier onboarding and due diligence protecting suppliers and Rightmove •ProactiveengagementwiththeFRConconsultationofcorporategovernanceand Code changes •DirectengagementwithGovernmentdepartments(includingDLUHC,HMTreasury and BEIS) on topics such as AML, Consumer Protection from Unfair Trading Regulations,energyperformancecerticatesandtheRentersReformBill. Prompt Payer While already voluntarily reporting our payment activity in the Payment Practicesreportingtwiceayeartothegov.ukwebsite,wealsosignedupto the Prompt Payment Code in October 2023. This is our further commitment toensurewepaysmallbusinesswithintheirterms.Wepay94%ofallour supplierswithin30days.AllofthisinformationisavailableontheRightmove website,ongov.ukandontheSmallBusinessCommissionerwebsite. ![]() Rightmove plc | Annual Report 2023 | 29 STRATEGIC REPORT GOVERNANCE FINANCIAL STATEMENTS Communities – and the environment Communitiesaroundouroce locations, and across the UK, mattertous.Wewanttopositively impact our communities: not just in terms of employment opportunities and corporate giving,butalsowithregardsto environmental and social impact. What matters to them? CommunitiesinwhichRightmoveoperatescareaboutemployment,careerandlearning opportunities; that their local businesses, charities and suppliers are supported; and that Rightmove is supporting the environment and reducing energy consumption. How Rightmove engages Fundraisingwithlocalcommunitiesisdiversiedacrossthecountryandemployees’ hometowns.Centrally,ourCommunitiesandCharityGrouprecommendthekeyareasof focusforRightmove’scorporategivingtotheCorporateResponsibilityCommittee;aswell asapprovingdonationrequests,matchedfundingfromemployees’ownfundraisingandthe supporting of customers’ charitable partnerships. Environmentally friendly initiatives and commitmentsincludeGoGreener,whichisourcontributiontoensuringagreenerUK propertymarket,andourSTBitargets,toachieveNetZero(seetheEnvironmentsection of the ESG report). How feedback reaches the Board and senior management • TheCorporateResponsibilityCommitteereviewESGprogressupdateseverysixmonths • PresentationstotheBoardonESGstrategyandactivity,withperformanceagainsttargets and metrics • ReviewofObjectivesandKeyResultswhichtrackprogressagainststrategictargets • FeedbackfromTownHalls,theHaveYourSaysurveys,1:1conversationsandournew Go Greener employee group. Outcomes and value created in 2023 • Twopaiddaysofleaveforemployeestovolunteerinlocalcommunitieswereannounced, in addition to the existing Company matched funding for all employee fundraising • Charitable donations in 2023 totalled £234,000 – including donations to Support Dogs, CentrepointandCaudwellYouth/Sofea–withsupportforavarietyoflocalcharityevents, such as the local Milton Keynes Christmas dinner for the elderly • EVchargerswereinstalledatourmainoce,withLEDlightinginstalledinthe Newcastleoce • OurGoGreenerinitiativewaslaunchedwhereourpropertydataandinsightscanhelp ontheUK’spathwaytoNetZeroby2050. Caudwell Youth/SOFEA In2023weprovided£37,000fundingtoanewprojecttoprovide training and one-to-one mentoring support to 11 young care experienced people in Milton Keynes. ![]() 30 | Rightmove plc | Annual Report 2023 Strategic report | Environment, Social and Governance #### We’ve made great progress on our ESG strategy since its launch in 2019 • Rightmovehasbeenacarbonneutralbusinesssince2019andworksconsistentlytoreduceitscarbon emissionsandtoincreasetheamountofwasterecycledinitsthreeocelocations • OurScience-BasedTargetswerevalidatedinDecember2022andduringtheyearourGoGreenerinitiativewas createdtodriveourcontributiontotheUKtargetofNetZeroby2050 • Rightmove is a socially responsible employer and has reduced its gender and ethnicity pay gaps, demonstrably increasing diversity, equity and inclusion • Weareactiveinourcommunities,supportingemployeevolunteeringwithpaidleave,matchingemployee charitable donations and have a programme of corporate charitable giving • OurGovernanceframeworksandsystemsofriskmanagementandinternalcontrolsarerobustandweoperate safeandsecureplatforms,withzeroreportabledatabreachesin2023 • WecreatedaCorporateResponsibilityCommittee,comprisingthewholeBoard,tochallengeandmonitor progress on all ESG initiatives #### ESG strategy During2023,RightmoverevieweditsESGstrategytoensureitremainedtforpurpose.TheCorporateResponsibility Committee approved the updated ESG strategy for 2023-2026 at its meeting in September 2023. For further details please turn to the Corporate Responsibility Committee report. Strategic report | Environment, Social and Governance #### ESG highlights 2023 Environment • Launched our Go Greener initiative •CreatedournewGoGreener employee group • Published the second Green Homes report in July • Achieved, or on track to achieve, three of our environmental metrics and targets For more information, please turn to page 33 Social • Reduced employee pay gaps • Improved diversity, equity and inclusionthroughnetworksand training • Bespoke 1:1 Thrive programme oeringmentalhealthandother support. • Launched ‘Giving Back Days’: employeescanparticipateintwo paid volunteering days a year • Donated £234,000 to selected charitable causes For more information, please turn to page 45 Governance • Enhanced governance culture, through leadership and training • Robust governance and compliance frameworks • Continuous improvements to platform security • Engagedwithcustomersand consumers,implementingnew waysofworkingtoelevatetheir experience For more information, please turn to page 53 ESG Report Rightmove is a sustainable, responsible business generating value for all its stakeholders ![]() Rightmove plc | Annual Report 2023 | 31 STRATEGIC REPORT GOVERNANCE FINANCIAL STATEMENTS STRATEGIC REPORT GOVERNANCE FINANCIAL STATEMENTS Environment • Embed the Go Greener employee group • Develop a carbon action plan to underpin our net-zero targets • Educate consumers and support action through increased provision of green data and information •Providecustomerswithgreen products, data and insights Social •Continuewithactionstoclose gender and ethnicity pay gaps • Further focus on diversity, equity andinclusion,withcontinued investment in social programmes • Support social mobility through workexperienceand apprenticeships • Embed the volunteering programme and increase corporate giving Governance •Reviewcodesofconductand ethical architecture •Enhancegovernanceframeworks through insourcing Rightmove’s internal audit team •Reviewhealthandsafety frameworks • Continue to invest in safe and secure platforms and systems Our ESG ambitions for 2024-2026 Reporting frameworks To report clearly and comprehensively on the Group’s ESG performance, Rightmove is aligned to the Task Force on Climate-related Financial Disclosures (TCFD) and to the principles of the Sustainability Accounting Standards Board (SASB) frameworkforInternetandMediaServices.Disclosureindicesfortheseframeworkscanbefoundonpages35and56. Rightmoveisalsoguidedbysixofthe17UNSustainableDevelopmentGoals(SDGs)thatweconsideraremostrelevantto ourbusiness,assetoutbelow. UN Sustainable Development Goals TheUNSDGsaimtoendpoverty,protecttheplanetandensureprosperityforall.Wehaveidentiedthegoalswhichhave mostrelevancetoourbusinessandwillensurethatwemakeapositivecontributiontotheseareasintheUK,thehomeof our business. Quality Education Gender Equality Decent work and Economic Growth Sustainable Cities and Communities Responsible Consumption and Production Climate Action Life on Land Playing our part We believe in opportunity and education for all and operate a fair and inclusive workingenvironmentwheregenderandethnicequalityarecelebrated. Playing our part Webelievethatwecanhelpto drive the UK’s net zero agenda by continuing to digitise home moving and by helping consumers to understand the options to make homesmoreenergyecient. FTSE4Good Index Created by the global index provider FTSE Russell, the FTSE4Good Index Series is designed to measure the performance of companies demonstrating strong ESG practices. The FTSE4Good indicesareusedbyawidevarietyofmarketparticipantstocreateandassessresponsible investments. Wearepleasedtoconrmthat,havingbeenindependentlyassessedundertheFTSE4Goodcriteria, Rightmove is a member of the FTSE4Good Index Series. ![]() 32 | Rightmove plc | Annual Report 2023 32 | Rightmove plc | Annual Report 2023 Strategic report | Environment, Social and Governance continued Non-nancial and sustainability information statement ThetablebelowshowswhereinformationcanbefoundinrelationtotherequirementsofCompaniesAct2006 section414CAand414CB,includingfurtherinformationonpoliciesandpolicyoutcomes(whereapplicable). Reporting requirement Annual Report section Page(s) Related policies and standards Environmental matters, including the impact of the business on the environment and climate-related disclosures TCFD Statement ESG Section 172 statement Strategic report – principal risks and uncertainties 35 30-44 23-29 60-63 Environmental strategy Employees ESG Section 172 statement Directors’ Remuneration Report 45-51 27 94-115 Code of Conduct Health and Safety Policy WhistleblowingPolicy Flexible Working Policy Maternity, Paternity and Shared Parental Leave Policy The‘Hows’ Gender Pay Gap reports Social and community matters ESG Section 172 statement 52 29 Charitable Giving Guidelines Respect for human rights ESG 55 Modern Slavery Statement Data Retention Policy Privacy Policy Anti-bribery and corruption ESG Audit Committee report 54 85 Financial Crime Policy WhistleblowingPolicy Business model Business model Strategic report CEOreview CFOreview 6-8 2-65 14-17 20-22 Principal risks and uncertainties Strategic report – principal risks and uncertainties 60-63 Non-nancial key performance indicators Strategic report – operational key performance indicators 18 ![]() Rightmove plc | Annual Report 2023 | 33 STRATEGIC REPORT GOVERNANCE FINANCIAL STATEMENTS STRATEGIC REPORT GOVERNANCE FINANCIAL STATEMENTS TheUKhasacurrenttargettobecomeNetZeroby2050.With25%oftheUK’semissions directly attributable to property, our ability to reach the largest UK property market audience meanswehaveauniqueroletoplayinhelpingwiththereductionoftheUK’scarbonfootprint, aswellasfocusingdirectlyonourownoperationsandemissions. Thissectionofthereportsummarisesourstrategyandinitiativestoensurewearemakingapositivedierence totheenvironment–akeypartofwhichisourGoGreenerinitiative–andhowweanalyseandmeasurethe Group’s carbon emissions. #### Go Greener #### OurnewGoGreenerinitiativeprovidesapathwaytogreenerpropertyandispart #### of our climate risk mitigation and opportunities strategy. AsthepropertyportalwiththelargestpropertyaudienceintheUK,operatinginapropertymarketthatmakesup25%of totalUKemissions¹,Rightmovehastheopportunitynotonlytofocusonitsownoperationsandemissionsbuttocontribute totheentireUKtargettobecomeNetZeroby2050. OurGoGreenerinitiativewillhelpourstakeholdergroupstoimprovetheirgreencredentialsandithasbeendevelopedacross four key pillars, underpinned by ongoing innovation and input from the employee Go Greener group: (1) UK Green Building Council 2021 report. Greener Rightmove Make our business more sustainable by minimising our environmental impact and becoming a Net Zerobusinessby2040andinourdirectoperations by 2030 Greener Homes Create a single trusted voice for home movers, customers and property professionals to help them better understand the challenges and benetsofgoinggreener Continuous innovation Helping consumers and customers use technology to reduce their environmental impact and carbon footprint Go Greener Employee Group To embed green initiatives across Rightmove Greener Data Become the leading source of green property dataandinsight,creatingownedandpartner opportunitiesacrossRightmove’snetwork Greener Buildings Enable commercial tenants and investors to discover sustainable buildings and opportunities ### Environment ### Protectingtheenvironment,loweringcarbon ### emissions ![]() 34 | Rightmove plc | Annual Report 2023 Strategic report | Environment, Social and Governance continued #### 2023 Go Greener highlights Industry insights on going green Rightmove is uniquely placed to provide green insights into changing consumer behaviour and the challenge that lies ahead for the decarbonisation of the UK’s property stock. ThesecondeditionofourGreenerHomesreportwaspublishedinJuly2023:astudyhighlightinggreen opportunitiesandchallenges,aswellasrecommendationsforthegovernmentandthewiderindustryto consider regarding the barriers facing consumers to go greener. Thegreeneducationalguidesonourplatformhavealsoevolvedtoincludeawiderrangeofsubjects, including the energy price cap, heat pumps and solar panels. Greener Data OurDataServicesbusinessisattheforefrontofgreendatainnovation,developingnewclimatedatasetsand productsthatanalysetheimpactofenergyeciencyonpropertyvalues. During2023,weundertookanexploratoryprojectaspartoftheGovernment’sGreenHomeFinance AcceleratorFund:workingwithretrotpathwayspecialistsSeroandlenderVirginMoneyonthisPOWER project(PartnerOutputsWorkingToEnableRetrot)tohelpdrivegreennanceinnovation. Oneoutcomewasthedevelopmentofagreen premium calculator: based on Rightmove’s vast and unique propertydataset,thiscalculatesthebenetsofundertakingenergyeciencyretrotmeasuresonahome’s forecasted resale value. This green premium–atermusedtoreectthevalueupliftofundertakingenergy eciencyimprovingretrotworks–canbeutilisedbyconsumerstounderstandthefullimpactofundertaking thesuggestedimprovementsoutlinedwithintheirpathwaytoNetZero. Followingthisexploratoryphase,wewillbecontinuingtoworkwiththesepartnerstoassessanddevelop innovativeproductsthatcanempowerowner-occupiersandlandlordstounlocktheenergyeciency potentialoftheirpropertybyimplementinggreenretrotmeasures. Equipping our customers WeintroducedEnergyPerformanceCerticate (EPC) information for every property advertised in a newpremiumversionofourmostpopulartoolfor estate agents, the Best Price Guide. This enables estate and letting agents to easily see property EPC ratings,andtosharethisinformationdigitallywith potential home movers. Go Greener employee group Our smaller environmental employee group has evolved into a much bigger Go Greener group. The purpose of this employee-led group is to build acommunity,withapassiontohelpembedour strategy across the business, generate ideas that helpusachieveourNetZerotargetsandbuild connectionswithexternalgreenexpertsand organisations. ![]() Rightmove plc | Annual Report 2023 | 35 STRATEGIC REPORT GOVERNANCE FINANCIAL STATEMENTS TCFD recommended disclosure Reporting and compliance Governance 1 Describe the Board’s oversight of climate-related risks and opportunities 2 Describe management’s role in assessing and managing climate-related risks and opportunities These are described in the TCFD Governance section of this report,below,intheCorporateResponsibilityCommittee report and in the TCFD Risk Management section of this reportbelow. Strategy 3 Describe the climate-related risks and opportunities the organisationhasidentiedovertheshort,mediumand long term 4 Describe the impact of climate-related risks and opportunities on the organisation’s businesses, strategy andnancialplanning 5 Describe the resilience of the organisation’s strategy, takingintoconsiderationdierentclimatescenarios The key climate-related risks and opportunities are described intheClimateStrategysectionofthisreportbelow. The impact of these risks and opportunities has been modelled andisillustratedbelow. TheRiskandAuditCommitteeshavereviewedthe methodologyandanalysisofrisksandopportunities,whichis describedbelow. The resilience of Rightmove to a variety of climate scenarios is set out in the Climate Strategy section of this report. Risk management 6 Describe the organisation’s processes for identifying and assessing climate-related risks 7 Describe the organisation’s processes for managing climate-related risks 8 Describehowprocessesforidentifying,assessingand managing climate-related risks are integrated into the organisation’s overall risk management Rightmove’s approach for identifying, assessing and managingclimaterisksisdescribedbelowintheClimate strategy section of this report and the Group’s risk managementframeworkissetoutintheRiskManagement section on page 57. Metrics and targets 9 Disclose the metrics used by the organisation to assess climate-relatedrisksandopportunitiesinlinewithits strategy and risk management process 10 Disclose Scope 1, Scope 2, and, if appropriate, Scope 3 greenhouse gas (GHG) emissions, and the related risks 11 Describe the targets used by the organisation to manage climate-related risks and opportunities and performance against targets The environmental targets and metrics are set out on page 43, togetherwithperformanceagainstourtargetsandourclimate actionplantotransitiontoalowercarbonbusinessmodeland net zero in our direct operations (Scope 1, 2 and Scope 3 Data Centres) by 2030 and in our supply chain by 2040. #### Task Force on Climate-Related Financial Disclosures (TCFD) Our aim is to make Rightmove more sustainable by minimising our environmental impact and becomingaNetZerobusinessby2040,andinourdirectoperationsby2030.InDecember2022, ourSBTineartermandnetzerotargetswerevalidated. Task Force on Climate-Related Financial Disclosures (TCFD) compliance statement RightmovehasprepareditsTCFDdisclosuresinlinewiththeguidanceinthe2021updatestotheTCFDFinalReportand Annex,includingthesupplementaryguidanceforallsectors.WecontinuetodevelopourNetZerostrategyandtoevolveour reporting under the TCFD recommendations. Atthetimeofreporting,theGroup’sclimate-relatednancialdisclosuresareconsistentwiththeTCFDrecommendations andsupportingrecommendeddisclosures–thetablebelowshowswherethedisclosurescanbefoundinthisreport. ![]() 36 | Rightmove plc | Annual Report 2023 Strategic report | Environment, Social and Governance continued #### TCFD Governance management across the business, and reports on climate- related disclosures to the Audit Committee. TheChiefFinancialOcer(CFO),whohasexecutive responsibility for implementing Rightmove’s ESG strategy, chairs the Risk Committee and is also a member of the CR Committee, creating a joined-up focus on climate-related risks and opportunities. An ESG dashboard, including climate- related metrics and performance, is regularly updated by the CompanySecretary,wholeadsonESGmatters,andis reviewedbytheRiskCommittee,AuditCommitteeandCR Committee to monitor progress against agreed targets. Input and ideas from the Go Greener employee group is fed into the Risk Committee. The Go Greener Group met during theyeartodiscussandconsiderwaystoimproveRightmove’s ownenvironmentalperformanceandtoutilisethereachof the Rightmove property portal to positively impact climate- related risks and opportunities. Anenvironmental/climateunderpinisincludedinourannual bonus performance targets – for further details please refer to the Directors’ Remuneration Report. Corporate Responsibility Committee Board Oversight Chief Financial Ocer Audit Committee Risk Committee Senior Leadership Team Go Greener Group #### Board oversight of and Executive #### responsibility for climate-related risks #### and opportunities The Board has overall oversight and responsibility for Rightmove’sriskmanagementframework,whichsupports theidentication,assessmentandmitigationofrisks–thisis describedindetail,togetherwiththeBoard,AuditCommittee and Risk Committee responsibilities, in the Risk Management reportonpage57.Rightmove’sriskmanagementframework includesESGandclimate-relatedrisks,whichhavebeen establishedastheirownriskcategoriesandfullyintegrated into Rightmove’s risk register. The Board and Audit Committee reviewallsignicantandemergingriskssemi-annually. A Corporate Responsibility (CR) Committee is in place to specicallyfocusontheGroup’sESGstrategy,risksand opportunities (see the CR Committee’s report for further detailsofitsworkin2023).TheCRCommitteeischairedby the Chair of the Board and its membership consists of all Board Directors. The CR Committee is supported by the RiskCommittee,whichisattendedregularlybysenior OurnewGoGreenerinitiativeintegratesresponsibilityfortherisksandopportunitiesassociatedwithclimate changethroughoutRightmove,promotingwiderstakeholderownershipofenvironmentalmatters.TheBoard consideredandapprovedanewESGstrategyin2023,whichincludesacommitmenttoproduceRightmove’s rstcarbonactionplanin2024. ![]() Rightmove plc | Annual Report 2023 | 37 STRATEGIC REPORT GOVERNANCE FINANCIAL STATEMENTS STRATEGIC REPORT GOVERNANCE FINANCIAL STATEMENTS #### Climate-related scenario analysis – physical risks and transition risks table TheTCFDframework’scategorisationoftransitionandphysicalclimateriskshavebeenusedtoassesshowclimaterisk factors could impact Rightmove. Scenarios and key assumptions Timeframe of impact Early Policy Action < 2 degrees Early policy action Smooth transition Short term 2020-2025 Late Policy Action < 2 degrees Late policy action Disruptive transition Medium term 2025-2035 No Policy Action > 3 degrees No policy action Business as usual Longer term 2035-2050 PeakUKshadowcarbonprice(2010US$/tonne carbon dioxide equivalent) 900 1,100 30 Meanglobalwarmingrelativetopre-industrial times by the end of the scenario 1.8°C 1.8°C 3.3°C Mean sea level rise in the UK (m) 0.16 0.16 0.39 Physical risk in the UK Low Low High ImpactonannualoutputgrowthintheUK Temporarylowergrowth Sudden contraction (Recession) in years 2030-2035 Permanentlower growthandhigher uncertainty Source: Bank of England report Theresultingscenarioanalysisandnancialimpactassessmenthighlightedtheincreasedriskoffailuretocomplywith emerging regulation and the impact on consumer behaviour and customer economics. Werecognisethatwehaveanimportantroletoplayinthe UKGovernment’sdrivetoNetZeroby2050andneedto continue to build climate resilience into our business model andstrategy,aswellastocontinuetofocusonminimising ourownemissions. OurnewGoGreenerinitiativewillbeanenablertoamore sustainable property industry – an industry that accounts for approximately 25% of all the UK’s CO 2 emissions – and isalignedwiththeUK’scurrenttargettobecomeNetZero by 2050. Climate-related risks and opportunities Rightmoveisadigitalbusiness,witharelativelylow environmental impact and a business model that can be sustainedinalow-carbonenvironment.Tobuildclimate resilience into our business strategy, the Risk Committee has identiedthepotentialphysicalandtransitionalrisksand opportunities for Rightmove presented by climate change. Anassessmentofthenancialimpactoftheserisksand opportunities under multiple future climate-change scenarios has been updated during the year. It considered the actions needed to achieve our commitment to net zero by2040,aswellastheimpactofpotentialphysicaland transitionrisksandopportunities.Theconclusionwasthat theserisksdonothaveamaterialimpactonthenancial statements, as set out in more detail in note 1 to the nancialstatements. All existing and emerging climate-related risks and ESG reportingwerereviewedbytheRiskCommitteeduringthe year and reported to the Audit Committee and to the Board. Thenancialanalysisofclimate-relatedriskswasreviewed by the Audit Committee and reported to the Corporate Responsibility Committee. The Audit Committee also considered the impact assessments, concluding that the potentialnancialimpactofclimate-relatedrisksonthe Group’soperationswasimmaterial,andthattheclimate- related risks are not principal risks given the limited impact that they could have on the business either operationally or nancially:theriskscouldnotseriouslyaectthe performance, future prospects or reputation of the Group. #### Climate strategy Thereachofourplatform,whichcapturesover86%ofalltimespentonpropertyportals, combinedwiththeevolvingexpectationsofconsumersonenvironmentalmatters,puts Rightmove in a unique position to contribute to the reduction of the UK’s carbon footprint throughourplatform’sdatasets,whichprovideinsightstoconsumers,customers,theUK Government and property professionals. ![]() 38 | Rightmove plc | Annual Report 2023 Strategic report | Environment, Social and Governance continued Climate-related risk analysis and nancial impact TheRiskCommitteeconsidereddetailedanalysisofthenancialimpactofclimate-relatedriskstoRightmove’sbusiness; thekeyriskswhichcouldhaveanancialimpactthroughincreasingcostsorreducingrevenue(albeitalimitedone)are summarisedinthetablebelow: Type of Risk Specic Risk Early Policy Action < 2 degrees Early policy action Smooth transition 2020-2025 Late Policy Action < 2 degrees Late policy action Disruptive transition 2025-2035 No Policy Action > 3 degrees No policy action Business as usual 2035-2050 Transition Risks EPC ratings required on property portals Property details require additional environmental information Newboilerregulations Physical Risks Datacentredisruptionowingto extremeweather Opportunities Increased direct third-party advertising for eco-friendly organisations Climate-related risk analysis and nancial impact Magnitude of Financial Impact Description Trivialone-onancialimpact Lowone-onancialimpactandtrivialongoingnancialimpact Mediumone-onancialimpactorlowongoingnancialimpact High,butimmaterial,one-onancialimpactormediumongoingnancialimpact Primary climate-related risks and opportunities Theprimaryrisksandopportunitiesidentiedthroughthenancialanalysisaredescribedinmoredetailbelow: Transitional risks • Early, mandatory EPC regulation may result in our customers requiring additional resources to complete due diligence on EPC ratings, reducing their capacity to increase marketing expenditure on Rightmove. •Consumerswilllikelyrequirepropertydetailstoincludeincreasinglevelsofenvironmentaldata,suchasooddataor alternateenergysources,whichmayincuradditionalthird-partydatacosts. •Newboilerregulationscouldresultinthegasheatingbanrestrictingthestockofpropertiesthatagentscanadvertise forsaleortorent,reducingtheircapacitytoincreasemarketingexpenditureonRightmove;and/oritcouldresultinstock delaysfornewhomesandbuildtorent,causingaone-oshortageofnewhomes,reducingdevelopers’capacityto increaseexpenditureonRightmove.GoGreenerraisesawarenessofalternativeandsustainablemethodsofheating, as part of our Greener Homes strategy pillar. ![]() Rightmove plc | Annual Report 2023 | 39 STRATEGIC REPORT GOVERNANCE FINANCIAL STATEMENTS Type of Risk Specic Risk Transition Risks 1EnergyPerformanceCerticate(EPC)ratingsrequiredonpropertyportals 2 Property detail reporting becomes more onerous for agents 3NewboilerregulationresultsinreducedAgencyandNewHomesstockonthemarket 4 Increased environmental administration for agents 5 Legacy properties become unavailable to advertise 6Newenvironmentalregulationreducesmortgageavailability 7Requirementforadditional‘green’searchltersonRightmoveplatforms 8Newpetrol/dieselcarbanin2035 9 Regulatory restrictions on energy use 10 Change in Rightmove's environmental supplier strategy Physical Risks 11Datacentredisruptionowingtoextremeweather 12Heatwavesincreasecoolingcostsinocesanddatacentres 13Extremeweatheraectsavailabilityofwebsite 14Travelrestrictionsplacedonstaasaresultofextremeweather 15Rawmaterialscostincreaseforhardwaresuppliers 16Homeworkingdisruptionduetoextremeweather 17Oceavailabilityissuesduetoextremeweather 18Traveldisruptionduetoextremeweather 19 Extreme cold increases utility costs 20ExtremeweatherlimitslanduseforNewHomes 21Commercialcustomerdisruptionduetoextremeweather 22Extremeheataectsdemandforsomeoverseasregions Opportunities 23 Increased direct third-party advertising for eco-friendly organisations 24 Eco-friendly market segmentation 25 Environmental risk data sales 26AgentsrequireRightmovedigitalproductsforenvironmental/administrationeciencies 27 Insurance Premiums reduced for greener businesses 28 Investor Relations improved by positive environmental reporting Other risks and opportunities Inadditiontotheprimaryrisksandopportunities,otherswereconsideredaspartofthewiderassessmentofclimate-related scenariotesting,asfollows: Physical risks •Impactofextremeweatherandoodinginthelongterm(nopolicyaction)onourdatacentresorCloudprovidersmay resultin:intermittentwebsiteorinternetavailability;lossofconsumerengagementandrelatedrevenuefromconsumer services;and/orapotentiallossofrevenuefromareductionincustomernumbersandthird-partyrevenues,plus potential litigation costs arising from customer contract disputes. Opportunity • Actively sell third-party advertising to climate-friendly service providers on Rightmove platforms. Theserisksandopportunitiesareconsideredduringnancialandoperationalplanning.Forexample,consumerrelatedtransitional risks are addressed through our Go Greener initiative and physical risks mitigated by the transition of data centres to the Cloud. ![]() 40 | Rightmove plc | Annual Report 2023 Strategic report | Environment, Social and Governance continued Aggregated risks Inadditiontoanalysisoftheaboveindividualrisks,weconsideredaggregatedriskscenarios,ofwhichtwoaredetailedbelow. Thecombinednancialimpactsoftheseaggregatedrisksarenotnecessarilyadditiveastherecanbeoverlapintheresulting impact on Rightmove: Changing consumer behaviour Changesinconsumerbehaviourmayresultinanincreaseddemandforenvironmentallyfriendlyproperty,whichultimately aectsthewaypeoplesearchforpropertyandresultingpropertypricechanges.Thefollowingrisksandopportunitieswere considered: • EPC ratings required on property portals (1) • Property details reporting becomes more onerous for agents (2) •Requirementforadditional‘green’searchltersonRightmoveplatforms(7) • Increased direct third-party advertising for eco-friendly organisations (23) • Eco-friendly market segmentation (24) TheoutcomeoftheaboveanalysisindicatesalownancialimpacttoRightmoveinearlyandnopolicyactionscenarios,anda positive revenue opportunity in the late policy action scenario. New Homes regulation ThisrelatestochangesinregulationthatspecicallyimpactnewhomesandBuildtoRentdevelopments.Thefollowingrisks andopportunitieswereconsidered: • EPC ratings required on property portals (1) • Property detail reporting becomes more onerous for agents (2) •NewboilerregulationresultsinreducedAgencyandNewHomesstockonthemarket(3) • Increased Environmental administration for agents (4) • Eco-friendly market segmentation (24) ThenancialimpactofnewhomesaggregatedrisksandopportunitiesonRightmoveresultsinalowriskforboththeearly and no-policy action scenarios and a net positive revenue opportunity in the late policy action scenario. Climate-related opportunities Theopportunitiesforaninnovative,digitalbusinessarecumulativeandbecomemoresignicantovertimeandinclude: • Enhancing property details and search criteria on our platforms to enable property hunters to identify all relevant informationaboutaproperty,includingenergyeciency •Enablingpropertyhunterstouseenvironmentalsearchlterswhenlookingforapropertyonourplatforms • Digitising the consumer home-moving journey by adding transactional functionality to our platforms, for example, tenant referencing, insurance and utility services • Providing proprietary data analysis and enhanced property valuation services and insights into the value of sustainable homeimprovements(seeexamplebelow) •Developingmorecustomertoolstoincreaseeciencyandreducerelianceonphysicalresources,forexample, enhancementstotheBestPriceGuide,appointmentbookingandvirtualviewings. TheRiskCommitteewillcontinuetodedicatetimeatmeetingstotheanalysisofthenancialimpactofclimate-related risks and opportunities during 2024. ![]() Rightmove plc | Annual Report 2023 | 41 STRATEGIC REPORT GOVERNANCE FINANCIAL STATEMENTS Streamlined Energy and Carbon Reporting Methodology RightmoveplcisrequiredtoreportitsenergyuseandcarbonemissionsinaccordancewiththeCompanies(Directors’ Report) and Limited Liability Partnerships (Energy and Carbon Report) Regulations 2018. The data detailed in the table belowshowsemissionsandenergyuseforwhichRightmoveplcisresponsibleandhasoperationalcontrolover,including energyusedinocesandfuelusedincompanyvehicles.WehaveusedthemainrequirementsoftheGreenhouseGas ProtocolCorporateStandardtocalculateouremissions,alongwiththeUKGovernmentGHGConversionFactorsfor Company Reporting 2023. There are no overseas operations. We have restated our comparison year’s 2022 emissions to ensureconsistencywiththelatestcalculationmethodologyfollowedforthe2023calculations. 2023 2022 Total kWh 1,282,135 1,093,581 Scope 1 Company Car Travel and Natural Gas (1) 209.51 169.77 Scope 2 Electricity (location-based) (1) 84.77 78.06 Total Scope 1 + Scope 2 (location-based) 294.28 247.83 tCO 2 e (Scope 1 + 2) per employee (location-based) (2) 0.40 0.38 tCO 2 e (Scope 1 + 2) per £ million turnover (location-based) (3) 0.81 0.75 Scope 2 Emissions from purchased electricity (market-based) 0.00 3.13 Total Scope 1 + Scope 2 emissions (market-based) 209.51 172.90 tCO 2 e (Scope 1 + 2) per employee (market-based) (2) 0.29 0.27 tCO 2 e (Scope 1 + 2) per £ million turnover (market-based) (3) 0.58 0.52 (1)Scopes1&2arereportedintonnesofCO₂equivalent. (2) Based on average number of employees throughout the year 2023: 727, 2022: 647. (3) Based on revenue of £364.3m for 2023 and £332.6m for 2022. Greenhouse gas emissions Carbon rebasing in 2023 In2023,toensureconsistencywiththelatestyear’sfootprintcalculation,andinlinewithemissionsreportingbest practice,Rightmovecompletedareviewofits2020baseyearcalculationmethodology,boundaryandemissionfactors datasetspreviouslyused.Throughthisreview,weidentiedachangetothespend-basedemissionfactorsdataset, whichhasaectedourspend-basedemissionscalculations. Toaccuratelytrackprogresstowardsourcarbonreductiontargets,andtoremaininlinewithbestpracticeandthe GHGProtocol,wehaveadjustedthe2020baseyearemissionsinventorytoaccountforthespend-basedemission factorschangeidentied.Restatingour2020baseyearemissionsensuresconsistencyandrelevanceofthereported GHG emissions information. ![]() 42 | Rightmove plc | Annual Report 2023 Strategic report | Environment, Social and Governance continued OurScope2market-basedemissionsforthereportingyear2023werezero,asallourocesareconsuming100%green electricity,backedbyRenewableEnergyGuaranteesofOrigin(REGOs).‘OtherScope3Categories’includeemissions associatedwithFuelandEnergyrelatedactivitiesandWastegeneratedinoperations. Asadigitalbusiness,Rightmove’semissionsassociatedwithScope3,PurchasedGoodsandServicesareresponsible for76%ofourtotalScope1,2and3footprint,withemissionsassociatedtomarketingactivitiesresponsiblefor26%of our Purchased Goods and Services emissions. ElectricityconsumptionfromdatacentresactivitiesisalsoincludedwithinourPurchasedGoodsandServicesemissions. All our data centres are consuming 100% green electricity. Progress against our SBTi Near-Term and Net-Zero Targets Overall,oneofthesideeectsofthisgrowthhasbeenanincreaseinpurchasedgoodsandservicesandcapitalgoods,and ouremissionsin2023haveincreasedcomparedtotherebasedyear2020.ThecontextforthisisthattheGrouphasgrown considerablyinsizesince2020,withthenumberofemployeesincreasedby30%.Thisgrowthhasled,inadditiontohigher revenues, to an increased spend for purchased goods and services and capital goods. Ouroperationsduring2020wereaectedbytheUKgovernment’scoronaviruslockdowns:weoeredsignicantdiscounts tocustomerswhichreducedrevenueandtravelrestrictionswereinplacethatimpactedthemovementofouremployees. Asexpected,in2023ourteamshavereturnedtovisitingcustomersandprospectivecustomersmorefrequently,whichin turn has led to an increase in business travel-related emissions. Greenhouse gas emissions ThetablebelowsummarisestheGroup’sGHGemissionsforthelatestnancialreportingyear2023andourrecalculated baseline year 2020: Scope Activity tCO 2 e (market-based) 2023 2020 % Change Scope 1 Company car travel 208.22 112.42 85.22% Natural Gas 1.29 – N/A Scope 2 Electricity consumption (1) – 85.70 (100.00)% Total tCO 2 e (Scope 1 and 2) 209.51 198.12 5.75% Scope 3 Purchased goods and services (2) 6,449.56 3,718.96 73.42% Capital goods 668.17 525.12 27.24% Fuel and energy related activities 83.28 49.92 66.83% Waste 1.07 1.50 (28.53)% Business travel (3) 456.06 281.13 62.23% Employeecommutingandhomeworking 618.28 436.06 41.79% Scope 3 Total tCO 2 e 8,276.43 5,012.69 65.11% Total tCO 2 e (Scope 1, 2, and 3) 8,485.94 5,210.81 62.85% Tonnes of CO 2 e per employee (4) 11.67 9.34 25.00% Tonnes of CO 2 e per £ million turnover (5) 23.29 25.33 (8.05)% Our 2023 Emissions AbreakdownofGroupemissionsfor2023,isshownbelow: 2023 Emissions % Breakdown (market-based) 1.05 2.45 0.01 0.00.02 Purchased Goods and Services Capital Goods Fuel and Energy related activities Waste Business Travel Employee Commuting and Home Working Company Car Travel Natural Gas Electricity consumption 76.12 7.81 7.375.18 2023 Emissions % Breakdown (market-based) 3 1 Purchased Goods and Services Capital Goods Business Travel Employee Commuting and Home Working Other Scope 3 Catagories Scope 1 76.12 7.81 7.375.18 76 8 75 OLD VERSION (1)Scope2electricityconsumptionlocation-basedemissionswere95.40tCO 2 e in 2020 and 84.77 tCO 2 e in 2023. (2) Including Data Centre electricity. (3)Includinggreyeetemissions,previouslyreportedseparately. (4) Based on 558 employees in 2020 and 727 employees in 2023. (5) Based on turnover of £205.7m for 2020 and £364.3m for 2023. ![]() Rightmove plc | Annual Report 2023 | 43 STRATEGIC REPORT GOVERNANCE FINANCIAL STATEMENTS How Rightmove is working towards Net Zero – our metrics and targets NetzeroreferstothebalancebetweentheamountofGHG that is produced, and the amount that is removed from the atmosphere. Net zero can be achieved through a combination of emissions reductions and emissions removals. Rightmoveisworkingtounderstandandevaluatethe sources of its emissions and to identify actions to reduce them,workingwithanindependentthird-partysustainability consultant, EcoAct. Our net zero commitment Rightmove has validated its near and long-term science-based emissions reduction targets withtheScienceBasedTargetsinitiative(SBTi). These targets can be found at: https://sciencebasedtargets.org.com Net Zero by 2040 Rightmove is committed to reduce absolute Scope 1 and Scope 2 GHG emissions by 90% by 2040, from a 2020 base year, and to reduce absolute Scope 3 GHG emissions 90% by 2040 from a 2020 base year. Near term The near term commitment is to reduce absolute Scope 1 and Scope 2 GHG emissions by 47.6% by 2030, compared to the 2020 base year and absoluteScope3GHGemissions42%withinthe same timeframe. TheaimistoreachNetZeroindirectoperations (Scope 1 and Scope 2) ahead of this, by 2030. Environmental targets, metrics and progress 2023 Rightmovehasidentieditsrisksandopportunities,oneofwhichisnewboilerregulationsresultinginlessnewhomes stock being available, as explained on page 40. As part of the strategy to mitigate the risks posed to Rightmove of changing consumerbehaviour,RightmovemonitorsconsumerandcustomerbehavioursthroughourKPIs,suchastracandnumber ofadvertisers.Eductionalresourcesareprovidedatwww.rightmove.co.uktoinformconsumers.Weareonajourneytowards netzeroandthemetricsbelowtrackourprogress. Metric Emission type Progress Base year Current year Target year Status Company cars 75% of company cars to be ultra-lowemissionby2025, 100% by 2028 Scope 1 Ahead of plan Oceelectricitytonnes of CO 2 e 10% reduction over 3 years Scope 2 Achieved 2020 2023 Target by 2025 67% 75%19% 63.2 tCO 2 2020 2023 Target by 2023 56.9 tCO 2 0 ![]() 44 | Rightmove plc | Annual Report 2023 Carbon osetting In 2023, Rightmove supported one Gold Standard and one VeriedCarbonStandard(VCS)andClimate,Community& Biodiversity (CCB) standard and SD Vista standard carbon o-settingprojects.ThecostforosettingtheGroup’s2023 carbon footprint of 1,369 tCO 2 egreenhousegaseswhich includesouroperationalScope3emissions,was£12,250 (2022:£10,749tooset1,049tCO 2 e greenhouse gases). Energy eciency and renewable energy We continue to encourage all our employees to maintain an awarenessofenergyusage,bothinourocelocationsand whenhomeworking:forexample,poweringdownlaptops, monitorsandprinterswhentheyarenotinuse. We promote the use of public transport and the use of virtualmeetingswhereverpossibleandcontinuetoinclude ultra-lowemissionvehiclesasanoptionforthoseindividuals entitled to a company car. During2023,aprojecttoupgradethelightinginourNewcastle ocetoenergyecientLEDlightingwascompletedandall oceswerewhollypoweredbyrenewableenergy.Allofour datacentresalsouserenewableenergyandourcloudprovider isentirelypoweredbyrenewableenergy. 100%ofelectricitydirectlyconsumed(ocesanddata centres)bytheGroupin2023wasfromrenewablesources (2022:99%).AspartofourNetZerocommitmentwewill workwithkeysupplierstoencouragetheirmoveto renewableenergy. Carbon action plan 2024-2026 AspartofthereviewoftheESGstrategyduring2023, Rightmovehascommittedtoworkwithitsclimatereporting partner to further understand the sources of its GHG emissions, particularly in its supply chain (Scope 3), and to developacarbonactionplanwithtargetsandmetricsfor 2024-2026.Theplan,andourprogressagainstit,willbe reported in the 2024 annual report. 2024 net zero priorities • Continue to drive progress on our target of 75% of companyeetcarstobeULEVby2025,100%by2028 • Continue the move of our data centres to the Cloud, whichwillhelptoreduceouremissions • The Go Greener employee group to focus on energy eciencyandonrecyclingmorewasteandreducing consumptionofwaterinallthreeocelocations •Maintainthehybridworkingpolicytoreduce commuting emissions •Continuetoworkwithoursupplychain,andusethe results of our supplier carbon emission survey to reduce our Scope 3 emissions Metric Emission type Progress Base year Current year Target year Status Reduce the carbon footprint of our data centres by 10% over 3 years Scope 3 Achieved Reducewaterconsumption by 10% over 3 years N/A More to do Increasewasterecycling N/A More to do 58.9 tCO 2 2020 2023 Target by 2023 53.0 tCO 2 0 1,523m³ 2020 2023 Target by 2023 1,370m³ 1,455m³ 2020 2023 Target by 2023 44% 50%41% Strategic report | Environment, Social and Governance continued ![]() Rightmove plc | Annual Report 2023 | 45 STRATEGIC REPORT GOVERNANCE FINANCIAL STATEMENTS #### Our Social strategy Rightmove has policies and practices that support and enrich employees, improve diversity, equityandinclusion,aidworkforceretentionandrecruitmentandpositivelyimpact stakeholders and communities. Culture and values At the heart of everything Rightmove does is its open, innovative, and supportive culture. We’re all in it together. The culture is shaped by our values – the Rightmove ‘HOWs’. The ‘HOWS’ 1 Do the right thing for consumers and customers 2 Be curious and go outofyourwayto understand 3 Share honestly, early and often 4 Make complex things as simple as possible 5 Drive improvement, wecanalwaysbebetter 6 Take responsibility and make things that matter happen 7 Dare to do, be bold. Don’t be afraid of mistakes you can learn from 8 Build great teams because Rightmove is people 9 Be approachable and appreciate whatothersdo 10 Enjoy the journey. Be part of it #### Our Social strategy 2024-2026 During2023wereviewedandre-setoursocialstrategy,continuingsomeofoursuccessful,cultureenhancing programmesandintroducingnewideasandpartnerships. Social Supporting our employees, improving diversity and equity and positively impacting communities Diversity Equity and Inclusion • Training • Community inclusion groups supported by commitments to action and policy • Increasing diversity, equity and inclusion in our workplaceandhiringpractices Social and Community impact • Volunteering (Giving Back days) • Increasing our charitable giving •Supportingsocialmobilitythroughwork experience and apprenticeships • Pension education Training, learning and development • Continuing to invest in bespoke training for managers • Free training to customers through CELA trainingandwebinars •Health&Safetyframeworkandpoliciesreview in 2024 Well-being and mental health support •Well-being,professionaldevelopmentandnancial awareness • 1:1 coaching opportunities for our people • Have your Say people engagement surveys and actions •Mentalhealthsupportandawarenessdays enhancingourworkplaceculture • Mental Health First Aiders ![]() 46 | Rightmove plc | Annual Report 2023 Social progress in 2023 2023 Targets 2023 Results and Progress Status Progress towards an employee ethnic mix in proportion to UK ethnicity Comparedtothe2021censusgures,wearenowbroadly inlinewiththeoverallEngland&Walespopulation (1) . On track Reduce our gender pay gap year on year until parity is reached The mean and median gender pay gap have decreased respectively 6.1% to 20% and 7.6% to 24.3%. More to do Well-being support and training for our people Bespokewell-beingprogrammesprovidementalhealth supportincluding1:1coachingonwell-being,nutrition, personaldevelopmentandnancialawareness.77% of employees agree that Rightmove genuinely cares for theirwell-being. Achieved Employee engagement – at least 90% or more of employees agree that Rightmove is a great place to work 88%ofouremployeesconrmedthatRightmoveisa Great Place To Work. More to do Living Wage employer WecontinuetoalignwiththeLivingWagecharteras an employer. Achieved Support communities and individuals through charitable giving Introductionoftwofullypaidvolunteeringdaysforall employees and launch of ‘On Hand’ volunteering app. Company matched funding of individual donations. Achieved (1)excludingthoseemployeeswho‘prefernottosay’orwherenodataiscaptured. Giving Back Days All employees have been given the opportunity to volunteer their time for charitable causes for up to twodaysperyear(paidleave)usingthe‘OnHand’app. Foreverytenvolunteeringmissionsinpartnershipwith Eden Reforesting Projects, a tree is planted, contributing toRightmove’snetzeropathway. Youth mentoring and support Rightmove has committed £37,000 to a charity partnershipbetweenSOFEAandCaudwellYouthto a dedicated project to support 11 young at-risk people inMiltonKeynes,whoarecurrentlynotineducation, trainingoremployment.Thefundingwillprovide one-to-one mentoring and support. Living Wage RightmovewasaccreditedasaLivingWageEmployerinJanuary2020.AllRightmove employees have historically been paid more than the Real Living Wage, including all contractorswhoworkwithus.TheBoardhasalsoconrmedRightmove’sadherence to the Living Hours Standard. Strategic report | Environment, Social and Governance continued ![]() Rightmove plc | Annual Report 2023 | 47 STRATEGIC REPORT GOVERNANCE FINANCIAL STATEMENTS #### Diversity, Equity and Inclusion In2023,wehavecontinuedtopromoteinclusionand diversityinourworkforceandhaveincreasedourfocuson ethnic diversity. InlinewiththeParkerReviewrecommendationthatall FTSE 100 Boards should have at least one director from an ethnicallydiversebackgroundby2021,wearepleasedto conrmthatRightmoveisaheadofthistarget,withthree out of 8 (38%) Directors from ethnically diverse backgrounds as at 31 December 2023. Rightmove has continued its ‘someone like me’ initiative to ensurethatintervieweescanfeelrepresented,andwetalk aboutdiversityandinclusivityatRightmoveduringinterviews. We have expanded our direct hiring platforms to include those thatattractahighernumberofcandidatesidentifyingwitha protectedcharacteristic.Employeeengagementactivitywith the Board is described in our S172 Stakeholder Statement. In 2023, all our employees had access to our executive team throughregularTownHallsandinteractiveQ&Asessions. #### Ethnicity, diversity and pay Of our employee base, 89% have volunteered information about their ethnicity, choosing from 23 ethnic categories (denedbyACAS)withonly11%ofGroupemployees selecting‘prefernottosay’orleavingtheanswerblank. Our aim is to have an employee base representative of the widerUKpopulation,includingineachhourlypayquartile. Toensureanonymitywehaveanalysedouremployee ethnicitydataunderthevesummarygroupsusedinthe Government’s Race Disparity Audit, 2017. As at September 2023, compared to the 2021 census gures,Rightmoveisnowbroadlyinlinewiththeoverall England and Wales population (excluding those employees who‘prefernottosay’orwherenodataiscaptured). Theoverallpercentageofemployeesinnon-whiteethnic groupshasdecreasedto18%(2022:20%)withadecrease inallgroupsexcepttheAsian/AsianBritishgroup,which increased from 8% to 8.5%. Thirteen point six percent (13.6%) of Rightmove’s employees are foreign nationals. Rightmove as at April 2023 White Mixed/multiple ethnic groups Asian/Asian British Black/African/ Caribbean/ Black British Other ethnic group England&WalesPopulation (2021 Census) 81.7% 2.9% 9.3% 4.0% 2.1% Rightmove 81.9% 3.6% 8.5% 4.0% 2.0% PayQuartile To p 83.9% 2.5% 11.0% 0.8% 1.7% Upper middle 77.4% 4.0% 12.9% 4.0% 1.6% Lowermiddle 82.3% 3.1% 6.9% 4.6% 3.1% Lower 84.0% 4.8% 3.2% 6.4% 1.6% ![]() 48 | Rightmove plc | Annual Report 2023 Dierence between male and female pay Mean Median 2023 2022 2021 2023 2022 2021 Hourly Pay Gap 1 20.0% (-6.1%) 26.2.% 23.8% 24.3% (-7.6%) 32.0% 33.5% Bonus Pay Gap 2 35.2% (-31.4%) 66.6% 43.9% 0.0% (-35.8%) 35.8% 0.0% AbreakdownbygenderofthenumberofDirectorsandemployeesasat31December2023byvariousclassicationsas requiredbytheCompaniesActissetoutbelow: Unknown / Prefer not to say (3%) Directors Female (50%) Male (50%) 4 4 FTSE Women Leaders Review Female (39%) Male (61%) 16 25 Senior Management Female (39%) Male (61%) 15 24 All Rightmove Employees (3) Female (51%) Male (49%) 398 375 Unknown / Prefer not to say (3%) Directors Female (50%) Male (50%) 4 4 FTSE Women Leaders Review Female (39%) Male (61%) 16 25 Senior Management Female (39%) Male (61%) 15 24 All Rightmove Employees (3) Female (51%) Male (49%) 398 375 Asatthesnapshotdateforethnicityandgenderpaygapreportingof5April2023,Rightmoveemployeeswere47:53female:male. #### Gender diversity As at 31 December 2023, female employees made up 39% (2022: 39% (1) ) of Rightmove Senior Management (2) . The Board is committed to strengthening and maintaining female representation in senior roles and Rightmove is a contributor totheFTSEWomenLeadersReview,thesuccessortothe Hampton-AlexanderReview. Our commitment to gender diversity is evidenced by the leadership team; 50% of the Board consists of female Directors,with50%representationatanExecutiveDirector level.This,combinedwithstrengthenedfemaleleadership team representation, resulted in Rightmove being placed eleventh in the 2023 FTSE Women Leaders table. #### Gender Pay Rightmove has published its gender pay gap report, based on dataatApril2023,whenthesplitoffemale/maleemployees was47%/53%respectively. Rightmoveemployeesarepaidequallyforworkinginthe samejobsandwearepleasedtoreportthatmenandwomen arealmostequallyrepresentedinourwiderworkforce. As in previous years, the gender pay gap is driven by the gendermixacrossthehighestandlowestpayquartiles. Womenarelesswellrepresentedinthehigher-paidsenior management and technology teams and men are under- representedinthelower-paidcustomerexperienceteams. BelowisourgenderpaygapatApril2023.Wearepleasedto report that our mean and median gender pay gap has decreased. Thisreectstheimpactofongoingactionstakenincluding developingtherecruitmentstrategy,withmoreemphasison directhiringtoensurewerepresentthediversityofouremployee brand and the promotion of more females into senior roles. Strategic report | Environment, Social and Governance continued (1) Calculated using Rightmove Group Limited pay data from April 2023. (2)Calculatedusing12monthsofRightmoveGroupLimitedbonuspaydatato5April2023.Bothourmeanandmedianbonuspaygapcontinuestobeinuencedby gender,withmoremenparticipatinginbonusschemesthanwomen. (1) The 2022 comparative has been calculated using the full time equivalent of femaleemployeesfortheyear,whichdiersfromtheamountdisclosedinthe 2022AnnualReport(45%),whichwasbasedonthecountoffemaleemployees inthe2022year.Basedonfulltimeequivalents,femaleemployeeswouldhave made up 39% of the Rightmove Senior Management in 2022. (2) The FTSE Women Leaders cohort comprises members of the Executive Committee and their direct reports. Senior Management includes the FTSE Women Leaders cohort excluding the Executive Directors. (3)Binarygenderdatawasnotavailableordisclosedbyallemployeesinthispopulation. ![]() Rightmove plc | Annual Report 2023 | 49 STRATEGIC REPORT GOVERNANCE FINANCIAL STATEMENTS Closing gender and ethnicity pay gaps Whilst progress has been made during 2023, particularly in closing the gender pay gap, Rightmove is committed to further reducing its gender and ethnicity pay gaps through a mix of meaningful, consistent and sustained long-term and short-term actions. The focus for the next 12 months is: •trackingpaydatamonthlyagainstrolevacancieswhilst conducting quarterly analysis to ensure an understanding of gender and ethnicity hiring decisions • continuing to deliver inclusive culture and unconscious bias training to everybody, to further increase understanding of diversity and inclusion to include gender and beyond • increase targeted activity through our career site and LinkedIntoreectthegenderandethnicdiversityand inclusion of Rightmove. Disability Rightmove is committed to its policy of giving full and fair considerationtopeoplewithdisabilitiesforallvacanciesand wecontinuetosupportandretainemployeeswhobecome disabledduringtheiremploymentwithus. #### Engaging with our People Rightmove’s people underpin the success of the Group. Without them – and their talent, commitment and dedication –nothingwouldbepossible.TheBoardandseniorleadership are focused on ensuring they take opportunities to engage withemployeesdirectly,aswellashavingaccesstoother informationtounderstandtheirviewsandperspectives. Someofthewaysinwhichtheydothisareoutlinedbelow. #### ‘Have your say’ surveys Employee satisfaction is measured bi-annually through an engagement survey, ‘Have Your Say’, providing employees withtheopportunitytosharehonestfeedbackabout workingatRightmove.Employeesareencouragedtoshare candidfeedback,whichisentirelyanonymous.Thesurvey results are transparently shared at both Company and team level, identifying areas for positive action. In the end of year survey in 2023, 88% of respondents stated ‘Yes’ to the question, “Is Rightmove a Great Place To Work”. Otherhighlightswere: •93%agreetheyenjoyworkingintheirteams •92%agreetheyunderstandhowtheirrolecontributesto achieving business objectives •87%agreetheyareproudtoworkforRightmove • 84% agree they are motivated to deliver on objectives •77%agreeRightmovecaresabouttheirwell-being. Board engagement with employees In response to the requirements of the 2018 Corporate Governance Code (Code), the Board agreed that an alternative, tailored approach to employee engagement wouldbeappropriateforRightmoveandthatNEDsshould beinvolvedinavarietyofengagementsessionswith Rightmove teams to gain direct feedback from employees. ![]() 50 | Rightmove plc | Annual Report 2023 TheNon-ExecutiveDirectorsmeetwithavariedgroupof employeesonanannualbasistohavedirectunlteredaccess to employees, providing opportunities to share and discuss thatfeedbackwiththeExecutiveDirectors.Discussion pointsin2023wereonareasidentiedforimprovementin ourmid-yearHaveyourSaysurveyresults(where85%of respondents agreed that Rightmove is a Great Place to Work).Positiveactionsweretakenfollowingthisfeedback, andtherewasa3%increaseinGreatPlacetoWork sentiment in the end of year survey. The Board receives feedback from the CEO at each Board meeting, in addition to updates from the HR team. The key messagesandinsightsfromtheChiefExecutive’sTownHall updates(seebelow)duringtheyearhavesupplementedour Non-Executive Directors’ understanding of the challenges and opportunities facing Rightmove’s employees and informed some of the Board’s decision making, particularly in relation to investment in technology, remote and hybrid workingandrecruitmentpolicies. Town Hall briengs AllcompanyTownHallmeetingsareheldmonthly,hostedby theExecutiveDirectorsandGroupLeadershipTeam.Town Halls provide the opportunity to share information and updates and provide a forum for employees to ask questions and contribute to discussions. Information is shared transparently, to ensure that employees are informed about the business plan and strategyandhowtheirrolecontributestotheachievement ofboth:ultimatelyaligningeveryonetowardsthecommon vision. In the 2023 ‘Have your Say’ survey, 72% of respondents agreed that they felt informed about matters thataectedthemand92%agreedthattheyunderstood howtheirrolecontributedtoachievingthebusinessplan. #### Inclusion Groups Diversity,EquityandInclusion(DE&I)isfundamentaltoour cultureandenablesemployeestofeelvaluedforwhothey are and the contribution they make. In2023,weaskedemployeesonavoluntarybasisto determine their priorities and activities, identifying whethertherewereanyspecictopicstoaddressfor underrepresentedgroups.AnLGBTQ+communityinclusion groupwasformed,withactionstakentocelebratePride Monthacrossourthreeocelocationsandtwoawareness eventsheldwithanexternalspeakeronPride+LGBTQ+and Inclusion 101. Asanoutcometodiscussions,aGenderIdentityPolicywas introduced to outline our approach to gender identity, the preventionofdiscriminationatworkduetogenderidentity andsupporttothosewhotransitionatwork. #### Working at Rightmove #### Recruitment and retention Recruitingpeoplewiththerightskills,capabilitiesand experience is essential to Rightmove’s success. The market forindividuals,particularlywithtechnologyandcustomer- centric skills, remains highly competitive and challenging, withhighsalaryination.TheHRteamnowhasdedicated talentacquisitionpartnerswhofocusondirectrecruitingfor allrolesandduring2023thebenetspackagewasrenewed andenhancedtoensurewecanattractandretainthebest people(seebenetsbelow). #### Training LearninganddevelopmentispartofworkingatRightmove andisdesignedtoequipmanagersandemployeeswithall the necessary skills to excel in their roles and ultimately ensureweprovideexceptionalservicetoourcustomers and consumers. AllnewRightmoveemployeesareintroducedtothebusiness byattending‘HowRightmovetstogether’coursesbasedat ourMiltonKeynesandLondonoces,tosupportthe Rightmovecultureandvalues,andallareoeredan extensive programme of training and development opportunities. Recognisingthatouremployeeshavedierentlearning styles, training is tailored to individual requirements in both technical and non-technical skills. Our development programmesincludeworkshops,on-the-jobtraining, attendance at conferences, coaching and mentoring, online learningandprofessionalqualications. Summary of training provided in 2023 Value Average hours of training per employee 17 Percentageofemployeeswhowere oeredtraining 100% Total number of training hours provided to employees 12,617 Number of mandatory training hours 4,621 Number of technical development training hours 7,996 Average training cost per employee £604 Strategic report | Environment, Social and Governance continued ![]() Rightmove plc | Annual Report 2023 | 51 STRATEGIC REPORT GOVERNANCE FINANCIAL STATEMENTS #### Well-being and mental health Rightmovetakeswell-beingandmentalhealthseriouslyand recognises its responsibility in supporting employees’ mental health and ensuring that everyone at Rightmove feels they belong and can contribute in a safe environment. Our wellnessprogrammeiscalled“Thrive”:itisaccessibleto everyemployee,providingacombinationofawareness events, personal development education sessions and 1:1 coaching opportunities. In2023ourfocuswason‘Howwethrive’together:with250 1:1 coaching sessions made available, focused around setting our employees up for success, alongside a monthly seriesof‘TimetoTalk’awarenesssessionsledbyexternal specialistssupportingourfocusonraisingawarenessand education on various social issues. Our aim is to provide education and support and through this wecontributetothelargermovementaimedatreducing stigmasandensuringtheRightmoveworkenvironment continuestobeonewhereeveryonecanbethemselves. Health and Safety Thehealthandwell-beingofallemployeesandvisitorsisa priorityforthebusiness.Duringtheyearweensuredthatour premisescontinuetoprovideasafeworkingenvironment: Rightmove has a fully compliant Health and Safety Policy and appropriate insurance for all its employees. We also ensure the maintenance of plant and equipment, the safe handling and use of all substances and the prevention of accidents and causes of ill-health. Accordingly,therewerenofatalitiesorseriousinjuries reportedduringtheyear,andtherewasnolosttime duetowork-relatedincidentsorwork-related occupational disease. #### Employee benets Pensions Agroupstakeholderpensionplanisoeredtoallemployees –thiswasreviewedduring2023andfrom1January2024,if employees choose to contribute 4% or more of their salary, Rightmove contributes 7%. Hybrid working The majority of Rightmove employees adopt our hybrid workingpolicyofatleasttwodaysintheoce,which providesexibilityandworklifebalance.Ourhybridworking policy aims to ensure that: all employees are treated equally irrespectiveoftheirworkingarrangements;hybridworkingis carriedoutsafelyandinaccordancewithourpoliciesand currentlegislation;andthecoreprinciplesassociatedwith hybridworkingandtheconditionsthatapplytothosewho adoptourhybridworkingarrangementareunderstood. Employee share schemes Employeescanbenetdirectlyfromtheircontributionto Rightmove’ssuccessthroughtwoall-employeeshareplans whichhelpaligntheinterestsofemployeeswiththoseof our shareholders. Every year, in December, each employee receives a Free ShareAward(in2023,600shares)undertheShareIncentive Plan (SIP). Over 94% of employees participate in the SIP and can sell their shares, subject to tax, after three years or tax- freeafterveyears. All employees have the option to join the Rightmove Save As YouEarnScheme(Sharesave),whichallowsemployeesto savemoneyfromtheirsalarywiththeoptiontopurchase shares at a discount after three years. Over 50% of Group employees currently participate in Sharesave. ![]() 52 | Rightmove plc | Annual Report 2023 Strategic report | Environment, Social and Governance continued #### Making a dierence to our #### communities and customers #### Free CELA training for our customers TheCerticateforEstateandLettingsAgentsLevel3(CELA) continued to be rolled out, free of charge to Rightmove customers, during 2023. To date, 3,071 customers have enrolled and £1.2m of free training has been delivered by Rightmove. Charity Group and charitable giving Rightmoveengageswithlocalcommunities,andsupports them on an ongoing basis, through local connections, charitablework,supportandsponsorship.During2023,the focus continued to be on local and national charities that mattertoourstakeholders,supportingthemwithdonations andmatchinganyemployee’sindividualfundraisingeorts. Charitable donations during 2023, including matched funding and sponsorship, totaled £234,000 (2022: £231,000). Customer sailing day Rightmove holds an annual customer sailing day to support charities that matter to our customers. The 2023 sailing day raised funds for several charities including MIND, The Samaritans, and the Huntingdon Disease Association. During2023wewereproudtosupport,amongothers,the followingcharities: Charity Purpose Centrepoint Centrepoint provides housing and support for youngpeoplewiththeaim to end youth homelessness by 2037 Support Dogs Trains specialist assistance dogs to improve the lives of children and adults Caudwell Youth/SOFEA Supports young at-risk peoplewithemployment, training and one-to-one mentoring Albert Kennedy Trust Provides routes to safe housing, support and secure futuresforLGBTQ+young people Papyrus Prevention of young suicide in the UK Equity • Social equity and inclusion • Disability • Homelessness • Foodbanks • Workplacements/ workexperience Environment and biodiversity Supporting projects that promote climate actionorprotect/ support biodiversity Stakeholders Supportingprojects/ fundraising that have a stakeholder focus (Employees, Customers, Suppliers, Consumers) Relief Catastrophe/ emergency response ‘oneo’donationseg famine, earthquakes andoods During 2023, the Communities and Charities Group identied the following key areas of focus for Rightmove’s corporate giving. ![]() Rightmove plc | Annual Report 2023 | 53 STRATEGIC REPORT GOVERNANCE FINANCIAL STATEMENTS Wecontinuetomaintainrobustcorporategovernanceframeworksandcontrols,anddevelop safe platforms, that support strategy, reduce risks and create the right conditions for value generation: ensuring Rightmove remains the trusted destination for home movers and property professionals. Culture and conduct Robust governance frameworks and controls Safe and secure platforms and systems Elevation of the customer and consumer experience • Hightrustculturewith strong ethical architecture • Ethical business conduct and behaviours and a safe workingenvironment • Increasing charitable giving • Continued tax transparency • Ensuring statutory, regulatory and legal compliance • Aligningwithbestpractice • Promoting a governance culture • Investmentincyber/data security to continue to deliver safe and secure platforms • WorkingtowardsISO27001 standards • Continue to be the trusted destination • Enhancing the customer and consumer experience • Understanding customer and consumer needs, listening to feedback and improving our internal processes and systems #### Governance and compliance strategy 2024-26 During2023theGovernanceandCompliancestrategywasreviewedtoensureitremainedtforpurpose: 2023 Targets 2023 Results and Progress Status Be Tax Transparent Rightmove has continued to pay the right amount of tax, at the right time. Achieved Zero reportable data protection incidents No reportable data breaches Achieved Zero tolerance of bribery and corruption, modern slavery or human rights breaches No reported instances of bribery, fraud, corruption, modern slavery or breaches of human rights Achieved #### Governance and compliance progress in 2023 Progresswasmadein2023acrossalltargetareas: ### Governance ### Robustgovernanceframeworksthatsupport ### strategy and reduce risk ![]() 54 | Rightmove plc | Annual Report 2023 #### UK Corporate Governance Code #### compliance and our robust corporate #### governance frameworks In2023wehavecompliedfullywiththeUKCorporate Governance Code. For further details on this and to read about our Board and Committees and corporate governance structures and processes, please turn to page 66. ThekeygovernanceframeworksinplaceatRightmoveare outlinedbelow. Regulated activities compliance Rightmove Landlord and Tenant Services Limited (RLTS) and Rightmove Financial Services Limited (RMFS) are authorised and regulated by the Financial Conduct Authority (FCA). Both RMFS and RLTS are subsidiaries of Rightmove Group Limitedwhichisanappointedrepresentativeanda subsidiary of Rightmove plc. Throughout 2023, RMFS focussed on continuing to deliver onallregulatoryexpectations,withaclearfocusonthe updated Consumer Duty requirements (July 2023) and ensuring that RMFS delivers good outcomes for consumers. Policyenhancementsweremadetoreectthenew regulatoryexpectationsandgapanalysiswascompleted against the enhanced requirements and action plans closed acrossthebusiness.RMFSlaunchedanawarenesscampaign for Consumer Duty and issued formal training to all those individualssupportingregulatedactivity,withatestthatall passed.RMFSalsorevieweditssupplychaintoensurethat all entities that support its consumers in their regulatory duty are making the correct adjustments to deliver good consumeroutcomes.SpecicConsumerDutymanagement informationisgatheredandreviewedmonthlyagainst agreed appetite parameters and formal reports, by the senior manager responsible for compliance oversight, and is submittedtotheRMFSboardquarterlyforreviewandaction. The RMFS board has appointed a Consumer Duty Champion. RLTS is authorised and regulated by the FCA to conduct insurance distribution. During 2023 quarterly thematic reviewswereundertaken,byexternalcomplianceconsultant ATEB,toensureongoingcompliancewithFCArequirements, coveringnancialpromotions,outsourcingarrangements, qualityassuranceandadeep-divereviewintothecompany’s updated suite of compliance policies. The Consumer Duty Act(July2023)wasafocusthroughouttheyear.Aspartof the implementation plan, governance oversight reporting andqualityassuranceprocesseswereupdated,aProduct GovernanceFrameworkandanIncentivesandCommissions Frameworkwereimplementedandavulnerablecustomers process set up to ensure that delivering good customer outcomes is at the heart of operations. Conduct, culture and values Rightmove is committed to operating in a responsible and compliantmannerwithhonestyandintegrity,ledbyasenior leadershipteamwhopromotethehigheststandardsof businessethics.Ourgovernanceframeworksandethical architecture – including our code of conduct, values (our‘Hows’)andourinternalpolicies,procedures,processes, trainingprogrammesandperformancereviewsystems support a high trust culture. Whistleblowing Rightmove’swhistleblowinglineisindependentlyoperated byathird-partyproviderandourWhistleblowingPolicyand arrangementsareavailableonourinvestorwebsite plc.rightmove.co.uk. All employees undertake an online whistleblowingtrainingmoduleonanannualbasis. Business Conduct Rightmovehasabusinessconductframeworkincluding an employee Code of Conduct, a Financial Crime Policy (incorporating anti-bribery and corruption arrangements) and an extensive employee training programme, including mandatorytrainingonwhistleblowing,dataprotectionand business ethics and integrity. No bribery, corruption or conductincidentswererecordedduring2023. Safe and secure platforms and systems Maintaining safe and secure platforms and systems underpins Rightmove’soperations.Everyserviceinnovationormodication to a platform is tested thoroughly to ensure that it delivers a valuable service for customers, protects consumer data and provides an engaging consumer experience. Due diligence checks are performed on all prospective Rightmove customers to ensure that they meet all relevant regulationsandbestpracticestandards,beforetheyareallowed to advertise on the Rightmove platform. Automatic detection systems are in place to identify any anomalous images or text uploadedtoRightmoveinanypropertyadverts,whichallows moreeectiveresolutiontoanyincorrectpropertylistingsand removes potentially misleading or incorrect images and property descriptions. Cyber security Rightmove continued to invest in cyber security and data security in2023andcompletedthefollowingactionstostrengthen Rightmove’s cyber security position: • Increased the number of people in the Information Security Team • Invested in ‘posture management’ tooling to ensure our Software-as-a-Service(SaaS)toolsareconguredinlinewith established best practice • Migrated our security event monitoring (SIEM) services to more modern platforms to further improve visibility into activity across our evolving IT estates • Made improvements to the device provisioning processes to harden our end-user devices. Strategic report | Environment, Social and Governance continued ![]() Rightmove plc | Annual Report 2023 | 55 STRATEGIC REPORT GOVERNANCE FINANCIAL STATEMENTS STRATEGIC REPORT GOVERNANCE FINANCIAL STATEMENTS Further details on security measures and risk management around cyber threat and to IT systems can be found in the Principal Risks and Uncertainties section of this Report. Data Protection Protecting customer and consumer data is a top priority. Rightmove’s employees are required to complete mandatory training on joining (and annually thereafter) covering data protection and information security and, periodically throughout the year, phishing tests are conductedtoensurelevelsofawarenessremainhigh. Policiesarereviewedandupdatedregularly,andall employeeshavecertiedthattheyhavereadand understood the core policies (covering Data Protection, Breach Reporting, Information Security and Appropriate Use of IT). Additional specialised training is required for employees in technical roles, and for roles that require access to any sensitive data. TheChiefInformationSecurityOcerisamemberofthe Group Risk Committee and co-ordinates actions across the organisation, to ensure the Rightmove security posture remainsstrong.RightmovehastwoDataProtectionOcers (DPOs)andaDeputyDataProtectionOcer,whoare responsible for data privacy, data breach prevention and reporting, policy compliance, record keeping and data subject rights. They are supported by a dedicated team handling data protection enquiries from consumers and customers via DPO@rightmove.co.uk. During2023,werespondedtoanumberofconsumerdata privacyincidents,whichwerefullymitigatedanddidnot resultinanynanciallosstoconsumers. Internal audit During 2023, the internal audit function continued to be outsourcedtoPwC.During2024,thiswilltransitionto aninhouseinternalauditteamwhichiscurrentlybeing setup,withhandoverbyPwCandoversightfromthe Audit Committee. Human Rights Rightmove is committed to supporting human rights and is opposed to all forms of discrimination in any of its business activities, relationships, operations and supply chain. Rightmove supports human rights through its compliance withnationallawsanditsinternalpoliciesadhereto internationally recognised human rights principles. The Rightmove Code of Conduct requires employees to promote equalandfairtreatmentforeveryone,inlinewithitsvalues: itsethicalframeworkofpoliciesandproceduressupports this, including Modern Slavery, Gender Pay, Flexible Working, Equal Opportunities and diversity and inclusion policies. Modern Slavery Rightmove is committed to preventing slavery and human trackinginitsbusinessoperationsandsupplychains; expecting the highest standards of ethical behaviours from suppliers and having a zero-tolerance approach to the mistreatmentofemployeesand,whereverpossible,those employed in its supply chain. We are opposed to all forms of discriminationwithrespecttoemploymentandoccupation, modernslavery,humantracking,forcedorcompulsory labour and child labour, in our business and supply chain. Rightmove’s Modern Slavery Act statements can be found ontheinvestorwebsiteplc.rightmove.co.uk.During2023, noincidentsofmodernslaveryorhumanrightsabusewere identiedorreportedinourbusinessorsupplychain. Tax transparency and strategy Rightmove’s approach to taxation forms part of the Group’s corporate and social responsibility stance and it is committed to paying the right amount of tax, at the right time. The Group taxstrategyisavailableontheinvestorwebsite:plc.rightmove. co.uk. Details of Rightmove’s total tax contribution are includedwithintheFinancialReviewonpage21. Supplier engagement and code of conduct Our supplier strategy is governed by our Supplier Code of Conductwhichsetsoutthesocial,ethicalandenvironmental obligations for our supply chain partners (available on the investorwebsiteplc.rightmove.co.uk)andisunderpinnedby a supplier due diligence policy. ![]() 56 | Rightmove plc | Annual Report 2023 Strategic report | Environment, Social and Governance continued #### Sustainability Accounting Standards Board (SASB) disclosure index ThetablebelowsummarisestherecommendedSASBdisclosures.Wherewehaveprovidedtheinformation,thelocationin theannualreportisprovidedbelow. Area Recommended disclosure Location Environmental footprint of hardware infrastructure • Total energy consumed, including percentages fromNationalGridandrenewableenergy • Totalwaterconsumed • Integration of environmental considerations into strategic planning for data centres Scope1,2and3GHGemissionsandwaterusage disclosed in the Environment section of this ESG Report Wehavecontinuedwiththemigrationofourdata centres to the cloud Data Privacy, Advertising Standards and Freedom of Expression • Description of policies relating to behavioural advertising and user privacy • Monetary loss arising from legal proceedings relating to user privacy • ListofCountrieswherecoreproductsorservices are subject to government-required monitoring, blocking,contentlteringorcensoring • Number of government requests to remove content Governance section of this ESG report – Safe and Secure Platforms and Systems and Data Protection No monetary losses as a result of legal proceedings None.RightmoveisaUK-basedcompanywitha predominantly UK target audience None Data Security • Description of approach to identifying and mitigating data security risks As above Employee recruitment, inclusion and performance • Percentage of employees that are foreign nationals • Employee engagement, as a percentage • Genderandracial/ethnicgrouprepresentation Social section of this ESG Report ![]() Rightmove plc | Annual Report 2023 | 57 STRATEGIC REPORT GOVERNANCE FINANCIAL STATEMENTS Rightmove manages the risks and opportunities associated withthedeliveryofitsstrategythroughitsriskmanagement process: ensuring appropriate controls to mitigate the impact ofrisks,withoutstiingthegrowthanddevelopmentofthe Group–operatingacultureofinnovationinwhichkeyrisks are understood and proactively managed. Risk management practices are embedded into business activities in a proportionate manner, supporting a culture that is riskawareandabletoidentifyandrespondtobothrisks and opportunities. Governance framework Rightmove’sriskgovernanceframeworkseekstosustainand evolvetheriskcultureandguidethewayemployeesapproach theirworkanddecisionmaking.Theaimistoensurethat businessdecisionsstrikeanappropriatebalancebetweenrisk andreturnandareconsistentwiththeGroup’sriskappetite. OverallgovernanceisprovidedbytheBoard,with assistance from the Audit and Risk Committees. Their key responsibilities include the approval of Rightmove’s principal risks,theapprovalandmonitoringofcompliancewiththerisk managementpolicyandframework,andtheperiodicreview of risk appetite. Theorganisationalstructureisbasedondenedrolesand responsibilities,wheretheassignmentofauthorityand responsibility throughout the business is clear. Board level engagement,coupledwiththedirectinvolvementofthe leadership team, ensures that escalated issues are promptly addressedandremediationplansareinitiatedwhererequired. Interaction of the executive and non-executive governance structures is facilitated by delegated authority from the Board to the Audit Committee, Executive Directors and leadership team. This includes a Risk Committee chaired bytheChiefFinancialOcer,whoholdsexecutive accountability for the ongoing monitoring, assessment and managementoftheriskenvironmentandtheeectiveness oftheriskmanagementframework.Thecompliance functionoverseestheday-to-dayeectivenessoftherisk managementframework. RiskprocessesareinplacewhichaligntotheRightmove operatingmodel;witheachbusinessfunctionresponsible fortheidentication,trackingandmanagementofspecic risks. Day-to-day responsibility for risk management is delegatedtoseniormanagerswithindividualaccountability for decision making - recognising that all employees have a role to play in risk management. Clear responsibilities for risk mitigation and controls managementaredenedacrosstheGroupthroughthe structureshownbelow.Allrolesworktogethertocontribute to the creation and protection of value. Alignment of activities is achieved through communication, co-operation andcollaboration,whichensuresthereliabilityand transparency of information needed for risk-based decisionmakingandeectiveindependentoversight and assurance in respect of key decisions. Strategic report | Risk management ### Risk management ### Ensuringweachieveourstrategicobjectives ![]() 58 | Rightmove plc | Annual Report 2023 Strategic report | Risk management continued The Audit Committee receives and analyses regular reports from management and internal audit on matters relating to risk and control and reviews the timeliness and eectiveness of corrective action taken by management. It also considers any ndings and recommendations of the external auditors in relation to the design and implementation of eective nancial controls. Further detail of these activities is included within the Audit Committee report on page 79 Board Ultimateresponsibilityfortheeectivemanagementofrisk,reviewandapproval ofriskpolicyandframework,riskappetiteandtheprincipalrisks Audit Committee AssiststheBoardindischargingitsresponsibilitiesformonitoringtheintegrityoftheGroup’snancialstatements andtheeectivenessofthesystemsofinternalcontrol.Monitorstheeectiveness,performanceandobjectivityof the internal auditor and external auditor and approves audit plans Risk Committee PreparestheGroupriskmanagementframework, maintains the risk register and list of principal risks, reviewsriskswiththebusinessfunctionsand consolidatesthesignicantrisksfromunderlying risk registers, including monitoring emerging risks, and summarises Group risk activity for the Audit Committee Management Business Functions: Ownership of risk and controls Business functions have overall accountabilityandownershipof risk.Thisincludestheidentication and management of risks, including emerging risks, and ensuring adequate controls are maintained andoperatingeectively.Theyare also responsible for implementing corrective actions to address any processandcontroldeciencies Compliance: Challenge and support The Compliance function provides oversight and constructive challenge to the business, coupled withadviceandsupportregarding theriskproleoftheGroup.Italso has a key role in promoting the implementation of a strategic approach to risk management Internal Audit: Independent review Internal audit provides independent and objective assurance on business and compliancefunctions,aswell as recommendations on the adequacyandeectivenessof governance, internal controls, and risk management. Internal Audit’s independence from the responsibilities of management is critical to its objectivity, authority, and credibility TheriskmanagementprocessisunderpinnedbytheGroupRiskManagementPolicy,whichissubjecttoperiodicreviewto ensure it remains appropriate for our business needs and delivers against our governance responsibilities. Risk Management process and activities ![]() Rightmove plc | Annual Report 2023 | 59 STRATEGIC REPORT GOVERNANCE FINANCIAL STATEMENTS Risk management framework and identication of risks Rightmove’sriskmanagementframeworkisdesignedtosupporttheidentication,assessment,managementandcontrol of the material risks that threaten the achievement of the Group’s strategic and business objectives. The key principle of the frameworkistopromoteriskmanagementasapositiveandenablingprocess,helpingtomaximiseopportunitieswhile identifying and mitigating risks as they emerge. SignicantandemergingrisksareidentiedandincorporatedintotheGroup’sRiskRegister,whichismaintainedbytheRisk Committee,vialiaisonwiththebusinessfunctionsandfromtheBoard’stop-downassessmentoftheGroup’soverallstrategic risks. The Risk Register captures the assessment of each risk, related response, and progress made against any actions to improve riskcontrol;aswellashighlightingthoseriskswhicharetheGroup’sprincipalrisks.TheriskregisterisreviewedbytheAudit Committee and Board semi-annually. They conduct robust assessment of the risks, including potential emerging risks, over the three-yeartimeframesusedintheGroup’sViabilityassessment.ThesignicantandemergingrisksfacingtheGroupduring2023 areoutlinedwithinthePrincipalRisksandUncertaintiessectionofthestrategicreport. Risk appetite DecisionsaremadewithreferencetotheriskappetiteoftheGroupandanassessmentofthebalanceofriskandreturn.Risk appetiteisdenedandcommunicatedwithintheGroupas‘thelevelofriskthattheGroupispreparedtoacceptinpursuitofits strategic objectives and business plan’. The Group recognises that its appetite for risk varies. The aim is to create and protect value - and acceptance of risk is subject toensuringthatpotentialbenetsandrisksarefullyunderstoodbeforedevelopmentsareauthorised,andthatproportionate measures to mitigate risks are established and monitored. TheGroup’sriskappetiteinrelationtoitskeyareasofriskisdenedbelow: Risk area Risk appetite Strategic risks TheseriskscouldadverselyaectthefutureoftheGroup’s strategy and value proposition. They can arise from external events–suchascompetition,theeconomy,newtechnologies, ESG – or arise internally from the positions taken concerning Rightmove’s governance, culture and strategic decisions. Some level of inevitable inherent risks in the delivery of its strategyandannualbusinessplansisacknowledgedbythe Group, although it aims to minimise this risk. Operational risks OperationalrisksarisefromthewaytheGroupgoesaboutits businessandtheexternalinuencesandrelationshipsthat impact it. They include the risk of loss resulting from inadequate or failed internal policies, processes, systems and decisions or from external events relating to suppliers and customers. Rightmovehasalowappetiteformaterialoperationalrisks: policies, processes and controls are in place across the business tomitigaterisks,althoughsomelowlevelrisksareaccepted wherethecostofmitigationwouldoutweighthebenets. Financial risks These cover a range of risks including that the Company fails to collectmoniesowedtoit;encountersdicultiesinmeetingits obligations; is adversely impacted by market parameters such asinterestratesandexchangerates;and/orundertakes nancialinvestmentswhichresultincapitalloss. Thegrouphasalowappetiteforanynancialriskand minimises risk through policy, procedures and rigorous nancialcontrolsaroundactualandforecastresultsand cash management. Legal, regulatory and compliance risks Theserisksincludenancialpenalties,regulatorycensure, criminal or civil enforcement action (and reputational damage) duetothefailuretoidentify,assess,complywith,ormanage regulatoryand/orlegalrequirements–includingthosewith respect to its FCA-regulated entities. Theriskappetitefortheserisksislowwithzerotolerance for criminal events such as fraud, bribery and corruption. A dedicated Legal and Compliance function oversees policies, procedures and controls that mitigate such risks. ![]() 60 | Rightmove plc | Annual Report 2023 Strategic report | Principal risks and uncertainties TheprincipalrisksanduncertaintiesfacingtheRightmoveGrouphavebeenassessedinaccordancewithourrisk managementframework.Principalrisksaredenedasthoseriskswhichcouldseriouslyaecttheperformance,future prospectsorreputationoftheGroup.TheseincluderisksthatwouldthreatentheGroup’sbusinessmodel,future performance, solvency or liquidity. Eectivemanagementoftheserisksisessentialtotheexecutionofourstrategy,theachievementofsustainableshareholder value, the maintenance of our reputation, and ongoing good governance. A description of the principal risks and uncertainties facedbytheGroupin2023(innoorderofpriority),togetherwiththepotentialimpactandmonitoringandmitigating activities,issetoutinthetablebelow. 1. Macroeconomic environment The Group derives almost all its revenues from the UK and is therefore dependent to a certain extent on the prevailing macroeconomic conditions in the UK housing market and on consumer condence,bothofwhichcan inuencethenumberof property transactions in a given year. The Rightmove business model and consumer engagement largely shield it from all but extreme market swings–nonethelessasevere and prolonged recession could reduce the customer base and, potentially, negatively impact revenues. Change from prior year Potential impact Substantiallyfewerhousingtransactionsthannormalmayleadtoareduction,orconsolidation, inthenumberofagencybranches,orareductioninthenumberofnewhomedevelopments advertised;bothofwhichareanimportantcontributortotheGroup’srevenues.Amore uncertainmacroand/orpoliticalenvironmentmaylengthenthepropertytransactioncycle, reducingcashowsforsmalleragentsand/orleadingtoareductioninadvertisers’marketing budgets, reducing demand for the Group’s property advertising products. Changes in the year Despite the ongoing economic uncertainty during 2023, housing transactions remained broadly stable at 1.0 million (1) (2022: 1.2 million and 2019: 1.0 million) and the impact on Rightmove’sperformanceandresultswasminimal:revenuewasup10%andmembership numbersbroadlyat(229/1%lowerthanDecember2022)andARPA (2) wasup9%/£117 from 2022. Risk monitoring and mitigation • Monitoring of the housing market, including leading indicators and membership trends. • Continuingtoprovidethemostsignicantandeectiveexposureforcustomers’brands and properties • Remainingtheprimarysourceofhigh-qualityleads,oeringvalue-addingproductsand packagesandhelpingtodriveoperationalecienciesforourcustomers;thereby embedding the value of our membership • Maintainingaexiblecostbasethatcanrespondtochangingconditions. ### Principal risks and uncertainties ### Monitoring and mitigation ![]() Rightmove plc | Annual Report 2023 | 61 STRATEGIC REPORT GOVERNANCE FINANCIAL STATEMENTS 2. Competitive environment The Group operates in a competitive marketplace, withattractivemarginsand lowbarrierstoentry,which may result in increased competition from existing competitors,ornewentrants targeting the Group’s primary markets. Change from prior year Potential impact IncreasedcompetitionmayimpactRightmove’sabilitytogrowrevenuesduetoapotential loss of audience, advertisers or demand for additional advertising products. Changes in the year There have been some changes in the competitive environment during the year. Rightmove continued to retain the largest and most engaged audience of any UK property portal. Its marketshareofaselectionofthetoppropertyportalswas86%in2023 (3) (2022: 85.0%) (3) . Risk monitoring and mitigation • Sustained investment and innovation to provide products to our customers that meet all of their property search and listing requirements • Communication of Rightmove’s value to advertisers • Continued investment in our account management teams to help customers run their businessesmoreeciently • Sustained marketing investment in the Rightmove brand. 3. New or disruptive technologies Rightmove operates in a fast- moving online marketplace. Failuretoinnovateoradoptnew technologiesand/orfailureto adapt to changing customer business models and evolving consumer behaviour may impact the Group’s ability to oerthebestproductsand services to its advertisers and the best consumer experience. Change from prior year Potential impact FailingtoinnovateonatimelybasismayimpactRightmove’sabilitytogroworsustainrevenues due to the potential loss of audience engagement, advertisers and demand for additional advertising products. Changes in the year ProgresscontinueswithCloudmigration,currentlyover40%completeandexpectedto completein2025.Followingtheprocurementofournewuserresearchtoolin2022,over2,000 sessionswereheldwithuserstoconductresearch,understandevolvingneedsandhow Rightmovecansupport.WiththeaccelerationintechnologyadvancementwithinAIoverthe past18months,weconductedanaccelerateddiscoveryprogramme,tounderstandboththe threats and opportunities that AI poses for Rightmove, in advance of building out our AI capability in 2024. Finally, investing continued in the consumer proposition to accelerate progress. Risk monitoring and mitigation • Ongoingresearchandprototypingofnewconceptswithusers • FormationofthenewAIandconsumerteamsthatwillenableustoaccelerateinnovationin our consumer roadmap • Ongoingengagementwithstart-ups,prop-techandinternationalpeerstostayabreastof market innovation. ![]() 62 | Rightmove plc | Annual Report 2023 Strategic report | Principal risks and uncertainties continued 4. Cyber security and IT systems The Group has a high dependency on technology and IT systems. In today’s digital worldthereareincreasedrisks associatedwithexternalcyber- attackswhichcouldresultinan inability to operate our platforms. A security breach, such as corruption or loss of key data,maydisrupttheeciency and functioning of the Group’s day-to-day operations. Change from prior year Potential impact Anylossofwebsiteavailability,ortheft/misuseofdataheldwithintheGroup’sdatabasesand IT systems, could result in reputational damage to the Group from loss of consumer and customercondence,aswellasnanciallossarisingfromincreaseddowntimeorpotential penalties,nesandlawsuits. Changes in the year High levels of cyber threat-activity continued. We remained focused on investing in enhanced securitycontrols,acrossbothourwebsitehostingenvironmentandadministrativeITestate, ensuring that customers’, consumers’, and Company data is protected. In addition to our inhouseITenvironments,weextendedsecurityactivitiesthisyeartocovercloud-based SaaSserviceswhichincreasinglysupportourday-to-daybusinessoperations.Third-party assurance exercises continued to be used to validate our capabilities and controls; undertaking penetration tests, benchmarking exercises, and an assessment of current workingpracticesagainsttheISO27001standardforinformationsecuritymanagement. Risk monitoring and mitigation • BoardmonitoringofcyberrisksandmitigationaspartofitsreviewofGrouprisks • DisasterRecoveryandBusinessContinuityPlanssubjecttoregulartestingandreview • Best-in-class security controls (and investment in) for all of our IT environments (on-premise, cloud and SaaS) • Embeddingbestpracticeforsecureapplicationdevelopmentintooursoftwaredevelopment lifecycle • Regular testing of the security of our IT systems and platforms – including penetration testing withongoingmonitoringanddetectionofexternalthreatsandthreatcapabilities • Ongoing monitoring of, and detection of, external threats and monitoring threat capability • Regular internal information security training, phishing and ‘spearphishing’ tests • Incidentresponsecapabilitiesprovidedbyexternalmanagedservicescoupledwiththeright inhouse expertise • Workingcloselywithourcoretechnologyteamstostayaheadofchangesinthetechnology landscape (for example, AI), and factoring the security implications of these into our plans movingforward. 5. Regulatory risks The Group operates in an increasingly complex regulatory environment. There is a risk that the Group failstocomplywiththese requirements or to respond to changes in regulations – including GDPR and, for its subsidiaries, the Financial Conduct Authority’s rules and guidance. Change from prior year Potential impact Failure to meet regulatory requirements could lead to reputational damage, legal action and/ornancialpenalties–allofwhichcouldimpacttheperformanceoftheGroupand returns to shareholders. Changes in the year Key changes in 2023 included updates to our existing Consumer Duty policies, processes andcontrolstoensurecompliancewiththenewrequirements,asdirectedbytheFCA; continuedworkonourprimaryandsecondaryDataProtectionImpactAssessments;aswell updatingourcookiepolicy,launchinganewcookiewallandupdatingthemarketingconsent modal. Risk monitoring and mitigation • Code of Conduct in place, underpinned by policies and procedures • Group-widemandatorytrainingprogrammes:whichincludeanti-briberyandcorruption, data privacy, information security and continuous professional development for all in regulated roles • A dedicated internal legal, risk and compliance team responsible for identifying, assessing andrespondingtoupcomingchangesinlawsandregulations;withaccesstoexternal, specialist advice. ![]() Rightmove plc | Annual Report 2023 | 63 STRATEGIC REPORT GOVERNANCE FINANCIAL STATEMENTS 6. Securing and retaining the right talent Our continued success is dependent on our ability to attract, recruit, retain and motivate our highly skilled workforce. Change from prior year Potential impact An inability to recruit and retain talented people could impact our ability to maintain our nancialperformanceanddeliverourstrategicobjectives.Ifkeystaleaveorretire,thereis ariskthatknowledgeorcompetitiveadvantageislost. Changes in the year During2023,weannouncedseveralchangesinbenetswhichincludedawardingall employeesanadditionaltwodays’annualholidayfrom2024onwards,andadditionalloyalty daysforallthosewhoreach10years’service.Otherbenetoptionswererefreshed,which included pension contributions and private medical health. Investment continued in employeedevelopmentandtraining–withafocusonmanagercapabilities,well-being andlearningopportunities,whichincludeone-to-onecoaching.TheNon-Executive Directorscontinuedtohostface-to-facesessionswithemployeestohearfeedbackrst hand.Employeesentimentremainsstrong,withour‘GreatPlacetoWork’scoreat88% (2022: 87%). Risk monitoring and mitigation • Regularbenchmarkingoftotalrewardpackages • Regularstacommunicationandengagementandsemi-annualemployeesurvey • Ongoing succession planning and development of future leaders • Learning and development for all employees, including mandatory training • The ability for all employees to participate in the success of the Group through the SIP and SAYE schemes • Hybridworkingpolicytoprovidetheoptionofuptothreedaysathome,withtwosetdays intheoce. #### Emerging risks Emergingrisksarenewrisks,orchangingrisks,whichwebelievearenotimmediatebutmayrepresentasignicantfuture opportunityorthreat,arenotyetfullyunderstood,andwherethelikelihoodandtheimpactareuncertainorevenwidely unknown.TheseincludeCompanyspecicrisksandglobalrisksaectingthemacroeconomyandarebeyondanyparticular party’scapacitytocontrol,includingscenarioswhichcouldderailourstrategicplans. Ourapproachtoemergingriskidentication,prioritisationandresponse,issystematicandincludeshorizonscanningand impactassessment,andconsiderationofconsolidatingrisks.Thisidentication,capture,evaluationandongoingmonitoring ofemergingrisksfallswithinourriskmanagementframeworkandisreviewedformallybytheBoardsemi-annuallywiththerisk register. Examples of emerging risks include: • ThepaceofchangeinrelationtoenvironmentalandotherESGmattersaswellasevolvingconsumerexpectations;and • ThepaceoftechnologicalchangewithregardstoArticialIntelligenceandthepossibleimpactonconsumerbehaviour. Remains unchanged Slight decrease Slight increase (1) Residential property transactions in the UK recorded by the Land Registry. (2)RevenuefromAgencyandNewHomeadvertisersinagivenmonthdividedbythetotalnumberofadvertisersduringthemonth,measuredasamonthlyaverageover the year. (3)Source:ComscoreMMX®Desktoponly+ComscoreMobileMetrix®MobileWeb&App,TotalAudience,Custom-denedlistofRightmoveSites,RIGHTMOVE.CO.UK, ZOOPLA.CO.UK,PRIMELOCATION.COM,ONTHEMARKET.COM,January–December2023,UnitedKingdom. ![]() 64 | Rightmove plc | Annual Report 2023 Based on the going concern assessment in note 1 of the Financial Statements, the Directors have a reasonable expectation thattheGrouphassucientresourcestocontinueinoperationalexistencefortheperiodto30June2025.Forthisreason, they continue to adopt the going concern basis in preparing the Financial Statements. In assessing the long-term viability of the Group the Directors have determined that a three-year period to 31 December 2026constitutesanappropriateperiodoverwhichtoprovideitsviabilitystatement,astheGroupoperateswithinanonline digitalmarketplace,andprojectionslookingoutfurtherthanthreeyearsbecomesignicantlylessmeaningfulinthecontext of the fast-moving nature of the market. Three years is also the period considered under the Group’s current Strategic Business Plan. TheStrategicBusinessPlanisdevelopedonabusinessunitbybusinessunitbasis,usingabottom-upmodelandisreviewedby theBoard.TheplanmakescertainassumptionsaboutAgencyandNewHomescustomernumbers,ARPAgrowthandother revenuestreamsandconsiderstheGroup’scostbase,protability,cashowsanddividendcoveroverthethree-yearperiod. TheStrategicBusinessPlanhasbeensubjecttorobustdownsidestresstesting,whichinvolvedexingseveralofthemain assumptionsunderlyingtheplan,toassesstheimpactofseverebutplausiblescenarios.Analysiswasperformedtoevaluate thepotentialnancialimpactovertheperiodoftheGroup’sprincipalrisksactuallymaterialising.Althoughalltheprincipal risks detailed on pages 60 to 63 could have an impact on Group performance, the scenarios opposite are considered to pose the greatest threat to the business model and future performance of the Group and are therefore the most important to the assessment of the viability of the Group. Undertheseverebutplausiblescenariosabove,revenuereductionsweremodelled,withkeydriversbeingcustomer numbersandARPA.Costassumptionswerealsoconsideredineachoftheseverebutplausiblescenarios,includingan increase in marketing costs and IT costs, employee recruitment and retention costs, and higher spend on innovation and protection of the platform. Thescenarioswerestresstestedindividuallyandincombination,withseverebutplausibleassumptionsapplied.Inall scenariostheGroupremainscashpositiveoverthethree-yearperiodandhassucientresourcestocontinueinoperational existence,withouttriggeringtheneedtoincuranydebt. TheDirectorsalsoreviewedtheresultsofareversestresstest,whichwasundertakentoprovideanillustrationofthe scenariorequiredtoexhaustcashbalanceswithinthreeyears.Thepossibilityofthisscenarioarisingwasassessedtobe highlyremoteandcouldariseonlyinextremecircumstances,signicantlymoreseverethanthescenariosmodelledabove. OtherfactsthatprovidetheDirectorswithcomfortaroundtheGroup’slong-termviabilityinthefaceofadverseeconomic orcompetitiveconditionsinclude:thattheGroupisnotoverlyreliantonaconcentratedcustomerbase,withnosingle customerconstitutingmorethan3%ofGrouprevenue;thattheGrouphashighoperatingprotmargins,signicantfree cashowgenerationandnoexternaldebt;andtheGrouphastheabilitytoadjustthediscretionarydividendandshare buyback programme to enhance liquidity, if needed. Conrmation of longer term viability Inaccordancewiththerequirementsofthe2018UKCorporateGovernanceCode,theDirectorshaveassessedthe long-term viability of the Group, considering the Group’s current position and the potential impact of the principal risks and uncertainties set out on pages 60 to 63. Based on a robust assessment of the principal risks facing the Group, including thosethatwouldthreatenitsbusinessmodel,futureperformance,solvencyorliquidity,theDirectorshaveareasonable expectationthattheGroupwillbeabletocontinueinoperationandmeetitsliabilitiesastheyfalldueoverthethree-year period to 31 December 2026. Strategic report | Going concern and viability statement ### Going concern and viability statement ### Based on a robust assessment of principal risks ![]() Rightmove plc | Annual Report 2023 | 65 STRATEGIC REPORT GOVERNANCE FINANCIAL STATEMENTS Scenarios that are considered to pose the greatest threat to the future performance of the Group and are therefore the most important to assess the viability of the Group: Scenario Linked Principal Risk Economic downturn GiventhattheGroupderivesnearlyallitsrevenuesfromtheUK,asevereeconomicdownturncould impactconsumercondenceandresultinareductioninthenumberofhousingtransactionsinthe market. In more extreme cases this could lead to a reduction in the number of customers, or impact Average Spend Per Advertiser (ARPA). 1. Macroeconomic environment Increased competition and/or new or disruptive technologies IncreasedcompetitionmayimpacttheGroup’sabilitytogrowrevenuesandcouldbetheresultofthe entryofanewplayerand/ornewtechnologiesusedbycompetitors.ThismightdisruptRightmove’s totalmarketshareandchangecustomerbehaviour,leadingtoareductionincustomernumbersand/or impact their average spend. 2. Competitive environment 3.Newordisruptive technologies Cyber-attack Acyber-attackcouldresultinRightmove’splatformbeingunavailable,whichwouldresultinlostrevenues and associated additional costs to remediate. 4. Cyber security and IT systems ![]() 66 | Rightmove plc | Annual Report 2023 Considering the interests of our stakeholders Under the Code, the Board is required to report on how it has considered the interests of its wider stakeholders in its decision making. The Board and senior leadership team engages with our stakeholders on an ongoing basis to ensure that their views are incorporated into decision making at Rightmove. During 2023, the NEDs have spent time with Rightmove’s customers and the senior leadership team has continued to engage in customer sentiment programmes and carried out an interview-based research project with our customers. Our Section 172 statement provides examples of how the views of stakeholders have been gathered and considered in Board and Executive decision making and can be found on pages 23 to 29 of this report. Board performance review We recognise the importance of regular, thorough, and transparent Board performance reviews. Details of the 2023 internal Board performance review process, outcomes and the objectives agreed for 2024 can be found in the Nomination Committee Report. Reviewing our ESG strategy In September 2023, the Corporate Responsibility Committee of the Board reviewed Rightmove’s ESG strategy and approved the ESG priorities for the next three years. The ESG section of this report sets out our evolving ESG strategy and contains a range of non-nancial information and metrics to demonstrate our progress to date. Statement of compliance with the UK Corporate Governance Code We report against the 2018 UK Corporate Governance Code which is available at frc.org.uk. The Board considers that the Company has complied with all provisions of the Code in 2023. The Governance overview on page 67 summarises how the principles of the Code have been applied at Rightmove and how the provisions have been complied with, including signposting to further supporting information elsewhere in this annual report. Annual General Meeting Our AGM will be held at the oces of UBS, 5 Broad Street, London EC2M 2QS on Friday 10 May 2024. Full details can be found within the Notice of Meeting, available at plc.rightmove. co.uk. All directors will retire and oer themselves for re-election at this year’s AGM, except Kriti Sharma, who was appointed on 25 July 2023 and will stand for election. Andrew Fisher, Non-Executive Chair Dear Shareholder I am pleased to present our Corporate Governance report for 2023, which explains Rightmove’s governance framework, and how we have applied the UK Corporate Governance Code 2018 (Code) principles and complied with its provisions. Rightmove’s Corporate Governance in 2023 This section of the report includes our statement of compliance with the Code (see below) and further information about how we achieved compliance with the Code. This report contains information about Rightmove’s corporate governance framework, the Board’s composition, the activities of the Board in 2023 and the reports of each of the four committees of the Board: Corporate Responsibility, Nomination, Audit and Remuneration. New CEO and independent Non-Executive Director On 20 February 2023, Johan Svanstrom was appointed as an Executive Director and CEO designate, becoming CEO on 6 March 2023, when Peter Brooks-Johnson stepped down as CEO and as an Executive Director. Non-Executive Director Rakhi Goss-Custard did not stand for re-election at the AGM on 5 May 2023, as she had served the maximum term on the Board, and therefore stepped down as a Director. We were delighted to announce in July 2023 that Kriti Sharma would be appointed as an independent Non-Executive Director on 25 July 2023. You can read about Kriti’s skills, experience and her induction, in the Nomination Committee report on page 88 and her biography is on page71. Board Strategy Days In June 2023 the Board held its annual two-day strategy osite meeting, where the senior leadership team presented the strategy for 2024 to the Board and external speakers gave insightful presentations on leadership and the emerging challenges and opportunities of Articial lntelligence (AI). The Board and senior leadership team held an AI workshop to explore the potential opportunities and challenges presented by AI. Governance | Corporate governance report – Non-Executive Chair’s introduction ![]() Rightmove plc | Annual Report 2023 | 67 STRATEGIC REPORT GOVERNANCE FINANCIAL STATEMENTS #### Governance framework The Board has established four committees (Audit, Nomination, Remuneration and Corporate Responsibility). The chair of each committee reports to the Board on committee activities at each scheduled Board meeting. No person, other than a committee member, is entitled to attend the meetings of these committees, except by invitation by the chair of that committee. #### Governance at a glance How the Principles of the Code have been applied The table below sets out how we have applied Principles A to R of the Code and where further information on how our governance complies with the Code Provisions can be found. 1. Board leadership and Company purpose A. Promoting the long-term sustainable success of the Company Pages 23-29 B. Purpose, values, strategy and culture Pages 6, 45, 9, 76 C. Governance framework and controls Pages 67-69 D. Engagement with stakeholders Pages 23 to 29 E. Oversight of employment policies and practices Pages 45-51 2. Division of responsibilities F. Role of Chair and Board Information Page 68 G. Division of responsibilities Page 68 H. External commitments and conicts of interest Page 78 I. Role of Company Secretary Page 68 3. Composition, succession and evaluation J. Appointments to the Board and succession planning Pages 86-90 K. Board composition and length of tenure Page 78 L. Board evaluation Page 90 4. Audit, risk and internal control M. Financial reporting – integrity of nancial and narrative statements Pages 79-85 N. Fair, balanced and understandable assessment Page 81 O. Risk management and internal controls framework Pages 59 and 79 5. Remuneration P. Reward structure reecting achievement and contribution to long-term strategy Pages 94-115 Q. Remuneration policy Page 98 R. 2023 remuneration outcomes Pages 94-115 Risk Committee Group Leadership Team (GLT) (Executive Committee) Culture Values and Conduct Risk Management and Internal Controls Training Rightmove plc Board Remuneration Committee Corporate Responsibility Committee Nomination Committee Audit Committee ![]() 68 | Rightmove plc | Annual Report 2023 Governance | Corporate governance report continued #### How Rightmove is governed A governance framework that supports strategy, mitigates risks and creates the right conditions for value generation. The Board is responsible for establishing Rightmove’s purpose, values and strategy and for satisfying itself that these are aligned to culture. The Directors are collectively responsible for promoting the success of the Company for its members and all other stakeholders. Please refer to our Section 172 statement for further details of the Section 172 duty. The Board is comprised of eight Directors, six of whom are Non-Executive Directors (ve of whom are independent). Board Director biographies can be found on page 70. Terms of Reference for Board committees, the Matters Reserved for the Board and the Division of Responsibilities of the Roles of the CEO and Chair can be found on our investor website. Read more about Board activities on page 74. The Chair is responsible for leading the Board and promoting the highest standards of corporate governance, planning the Board’s agendas with the CEO and Company Secretary and for ensuring that Directors receive timely, accurate information and that sucient time is allocated for discussion at meetings to support eective decision making. One of the Non-Executive Directors is appointed as the Senior Independent Director, who is responsible for deputising for the Chair in his absence, serving as an intermediary for other Directors when necessary, being available for shareholders if they have concerns that they are not able to raise with the Chair and for conducting the annual review of the Chair’s performance. The role of the SID can be found on our investor website. Independent NEDs provide challenge and scrutiny to the work of the Executive Directors in their application of the strategy, within the risk and control framework set by the Board. • The Board delegates the day-to-day operation of the business to the Executive Directors. The Board receives reports on the work of the Executive team from the CEO at each scheduled Board meeting and has regular interactions with them. • The Board delegates certain matters to its four Board committees – see below for further information. At scheduled Board meetings, the chair of each committee reports back on its activities. Group Leadership Team (GLT) Rightmove’s internal leadership team, led by the CEO. Responsible for the day-to-day strategic and operational direction of the Group, for ensuring business units are accountable and aligned on business strategy and key results. Responsible for the day-to-day management and alignment of culture and values at Rightmove and for developing appropriate talent management and succession plans in the wider senior leadership team. The Board and its committees are supported by the Company Secretary who is responsible for advising the Chair and Board on corporate governance matters. The Company Secretary plays an important role in the organisation of Board and committee meetings, the preparation of clear, accurate and timely information for those meetings, liaison between the Board and senior leadership and the maintenance and development of the corporate governance framework and ESG matters at Rightmove. Board Board Chair Senior Independent Director (SID) Independent Non-Executive Directors Executive Directors Company Secretary ![]() Rightmove plc | Annual Report 2023 | 69 STRATEGIC REPORT GOVERNANCE FINANCIAL STATEMENTS All Board committees are comprised of Non-Executive Directors only, apart from the Corporate Responsibility Committee which comprises all Directors. Only committee members are entitled to attend Committee meetings, but other Board members and Rightmove employees may attend by invitation only. Responsible for monitoring the integrity of the nancial statements and for reviewing the eectiveness of the internal and external audit functions and systems of risk management and internal controls. Read more on page 79 Responsible for Board composition and diversity, for succession planning and reviewing the performance of the Board and its committees. Formulates proposals for appointments to the Board and its committees. Read more on page 86 Responsible for developing policy on Executive and wider workforce remuneration and share-based incentive plans. Read more on page 94 Ensures that Rightmove’s ESG strategy is t for purpose and reviews ESG reporting and metrics. Read more on page 91 Forums which meet regularly to strengthen governance and to provide two-way channels of communication and engagement for senior leadership and employees. Town Halls Employee meetings, led by senior leadership, to communicate, inform, motivate and celebrate. Board and Employee Engagement Sessions Dedicated sessions for the Board’s Non-Executive Directors and employees to discuss working at Rightmove. Greener Group Employee group that meets to consider and agree our environmental policy and strategy. Read more on page 34 Meets to govern pension arrangements and to hold pension providers to account. Meet regularly to discuss progress on strategic objectives: Customer, Customer sentiment, Consumer, Labs, Mortgages, Lead to Keys and Breadth. Read more about our inclusion groups on page 50 Employee group that considers and agrees charitable donations, sponsorships and matched fundraising requests. Read more on page 52 The Risk Committee is a below Board committee that works closely with the Audit Committee and is responsible for the day-to-day identication and mitigation of risks. Members of the Risk Committee are: the Chief Financial Ocer, the Chief Technology and Product Ocer, the Chief Information Security Ocer, the Legal and Compliance Director and the Head of Customer Experience. Read more on page 57 There are ve companies in the Rightmove Group – Rightmove plc, its subsidiary company Rightmove Group Limited and its subsidiary companies Rightmove Landlord and Tenant Services Limited, Rightmove Financial Services Limited and Homeviews Platform Limited. All Rightmove companies are registered in England and Wales. Executive Directors and members of the Group Leadership Team and senior leadership team serve as Directors on subsidiary Boards. Employees are provided with the tools to play their part in governance at Rightmove. You can read more about Rightmove’s culture and values in the Social section of the ESG report, starting on page 45 Board Committees Audit Committee Nomination Committee Remuneration Committee Corporate Responsibility Committee Risk Committee Subsidiary Boards Rightmove Forums Pension Governance PODS Inclusion Groups Communities and Charities Group Culture, Values, Induction and Training ![]() 70 | Rightmove plc | Annual Report 2023 Governance | Directors and ocers Key to Board Committee membership A Audit Committee R Remuneration Committee C Corporate Responsibility Committee N Nomination Committee \* Committee Chair #### Directors and ocers Appointment to the Board: 20 February 2023 Current external commitments: None Previous roles and relevant skills and experience: Johan brings extensive knowledge of growing established online marketplace and e-commerce businesses and has many years of experience as a board director of both public and private technology companies across multiple countries. Johan most recently served as a Partner, EQT Growth Advisory Team, part of EQT the global investment organisation, where he was part of investing in and serving on the boards of several growth technology companies. Prior to that, Johan was a member of the Expedia Group global leadership team, serving as Global President of Hotels.com and Expedia Aliate Network brands between 2013 and 2018, where he grew revenues to over $3 billion, leading teams across four continents. Preceding that, Johan spent eight years with the Expedia Group in its Asia-Pacic division as a Managing Director, launching and growing several of the company’s divisions into leading regional players. Johan was previously with McDonald’s Corporation, where he was Head of the Digital Innovations Group, successfully leading major projects based in the US. Before that, Johan held CEO and leadership positions in telecommunications and internet start-ups. Johan is a Swedish national based in the UK and holds a MSc in Economics from the Stockholm School of Economics. Johan Svanstrom Chief Executive Ocer C Appointment to the Board: 1 January 2020 Current external commitments: Non-Executive Director, Senior Independent Director and Remuneration Committee Chair of Marks and Spencer plc Previous roles and relevant skills and experience: Andrew has a background in building digital, media and entrepreneurial businesses and executing high growth strategies. He also has experience of serving on the Boards of a number of listed companies as a Non-Executive Director. Andrew was previously CEO and Executive Chairman of Shazam. During his tenure, Shazam became one of the world’s leading mobile consumer brands. He was also European Managing Director of Infospace Inc and the founder and Managing Director of TDLI.com. Andrew was a Non-Executive Director of MoneySupermarket.com Group plc until May 2020 and Merlin Entertainments plc until 2019. Andrew is a Trustee of the Royal Marsden Cancer Charity. Andrew Fisher Chair N\*, C\* Appointment to the Board: 7 September 2020 Current external commitments: Non-Executive Director and Audit Committee member, Pearson plc Previous roles and relevant skills and experience: Alison was the Chief Strategy Ocer at News UK from 2016 until May 2020, where she was at the forefront of the business’ digital transformation. Before News UK, Alison held a number of senior positions at Sky plc from 2002 – 2016, including Group Treasurer, Director of Finance and Deputy Managing Director Sky Business. Alison is an Irish national, but has lived in London since 1994. She has a Masters in Business Studies from University College Dublin. Alison Dolan Chief Financial Ocer C ![]() Rightmove plc | Annual Report 2023 | 71 STRATEGIC REPORT GOVERNANCE FINANCIAL STATEMENTS Appointment to the Board: 1 June 2017 Committee membership: Audit, Nomination and Corporate Responsibility Current external commitments: Chief Executive Ocer of M Group Services Limited Previous roles and relevant skills and experience: Andrew is a chartered accountant with broad operational experience, a wealth of nancial expertise, proven commercial experience and a strong consumer-centric background. He has a deep knowledge of nancial reporting, audit and risk management, technological solutions and consumer platforms. Andrew is currently the Chief Executive Ocer of M Group Services Limited, the leading essential infrastructure services provider in the UK. He was previously the Chief Financial Ocer of M Group Services from 2021 and prior to that the Chief Financial Ocer of easyJet plc from 2015 until February 2021. Before joining easyJet, Andrew was Chief Financial Ocer of Halfords plc and prior to that Director of Finance, Tax and Treasury at Marks and Spencer Group plc. He formerly held senior nance roles with the London Stock Exchange and Cable & Wireless, in the UK and US. Andrew qualied as a chartered accountant with Coopers & Lybrand. Andrew Findlay Independent Non-Executive Director A\*, N, C Appointment to the Board: 30 December 2016 Committee membership: Audit, Nomination, Remuneration, Corporate Responsibility Current external commitments: Board Member of techUK Non-Executive Director of FDM Group (Holdings) plc Chair Institute of Coding Previous roles and relevant skills and experience: Jacqueline is a recognised technology leader with many years’ experience in the software, technology and digital sectors, working in enterprise software businesses. She has extensive knowledge and skills in technology- based solutions and cyber security. Jacqueline has been employed throughout her career by global blue-chip software companies. She has served as a Non-Executive Director on the boards of Home Retail Group, AO World plc and Costain Group plc. Jaqueline currently has NED responsibility for Employee Voice at FDM Group plc and for the ESG agenda at IFS AB. Jacqueline is the Chair at the Institute of Coding, and President of Digital Leaders Technology Group. She is a passionate advocate for diversity and inclusion in the workplace with a particular focus on getting women and girls into digital careers and studying STEM subjects. She was awarded a CBE for services to international trade in the technology industry in 2018. Jacqueline de Rojas CBE Senior Independent Non-Executive Director A, N, R, C Appointment to the Board: 25 July 2023 Committee membership: Audit, Nomination and Corporate Responsibility Current external commitments: Chief Product Ocer, LegalTech, Thomson Reuters Previous roles and relevant skills and experience: Kriti Sharma is an internationally recognised expert in AI who has a strong record of building and transforming successful technology businesses and products for consumer, B2B and enterprise companies. She is currently Chief Product Ocer, LegalTech, for Thomson Reuters. She was formerly the VP of Articial Intelligence at FTSE 100 software company Sage Group plc and led a major product transformation for GfK, a KKR portfolio company, transforming them from a data and content provider to a decision intelligence, SaaS platform business. Kriti was named in the Forbes 30 Under 30 list in 2017 for advancements in AI and is a Google Anita Borg Scholar. She was awarded the Prime Minister’s Points of Light award for creating ‘AI for Good’, an initiative pioneering AI techniques to tackle a range of social challenges. Her work is frequently featured in global media such as the Financial Times, Harvard Business Review, BBC. She was appointed a United Nations Young Leader in 2018. Kriti Sharma Independent Non-Executive Director A, N, C ![]() 72 | Rightmove plc | Annual Report 2023 Governance | Directors and ocers continued Key to Board Committee membership A Audit Committee R Remuneration Committee C Corporate Responsibility Committee N Nomination Committee \* Committee Chair Appointment to the Board: 28 September 2022 Previous roles and relevant skills and experience: Carolyn was Deputy Company Secretary at Superdry plc from December 2018 to September 2022 and Company Secretary (SPV) at G4S plc from October 2015 to December 2018. Carolyn has broad commercial experience as a company secretary, spanning the voluntary sector, nancial services, utilities and retail. Carolyn is a Fellow of the Chartered Governance Institute UK and Ireland and has a BA (Hons) in Politics and History from Coventry University. Carolyn is a Trustee of the charity Caudwell Youth. Carolyn Pollard Company Secretary Appointment to the Board: 01 February 2018 Committee membership: Remuneration (Chair), Nomination, Corporate Responsibility Current external commitments: Non-Executive Director of Proven VCT plc Non-Executive Director of Finsbury Growth & Income Trust PLC Non-Executive Director of Premier Foods plc Previous roles and relevant skills and experience: Lorna has extensive experience as a media analyst and investment adviser to the media sector with strong nancial analysis and leadership skills. She was Executive Director of Numis Corporation PLC (now Deutsche Numis) and Head of the Media Sector in Corporate Broking & Advisory until September 2017. She was a founder of Numis when it launched in 2001 having worked at Sheppards, as a director of SG Warburg and executive director of WestLB Panmure. Lorna previously served on the Advisory Panel of TechNation’s Future Fifty programme and as a Cabinet Ambassador (for Creative Britain) for the Department of Culture, Media & Sport. She has also served as a Non-Executive Director of M&C Saatchi PLC, Euromoney Institutional Investor PLC and Jupiter UK Growth plc. Lorna Tilbian Independent Non-Executive Director N, R\*, C Appointment to the Board: 01 June 2019 Committee membership: Nomination, Remuneration, Corporate Responsibility Current external commitments: Managing Director of Vitruvian Partners LLP Previous roles and relevant skills and experience: Amit has a strong understanding of the online classied sector and innovation across a range of online marketplace businesses, with extensive knowledge of nance and capital markets. He was Head of International Developed Equities at Harvard Management Company and prior to that Head of Equities at the Lakshmi Mittal Family Oce. He previously held senior investment management roles at Morgan Stanley & Co International plc, Zi Brothers Investments and KKR & Co. Amit has an MBA with Distinction from Harvard Business School and a Bachelor’s degree in Economics with Honours from Harvard College. Amit Tiwari Independent Non-Executive Director N, R, C ![]() Rightmove plc | Annual Report 2023 | 73 STRATEGIC REPORT GOVERNANCE FINANCIAL STATEMENTS Board and Committee attendance The Board continues to demonstrate individual and collective commitment to Rightmove by devoting sucient time to their duties, including time spent preparing for and attending scheduled Board and Committee meetings, strategy and investor events and additional ad-hoc meetings, Board calls and stakeholder engagement activities. In addition to the below meetings, the Chair conducts meetings with the NEDs without the Executive Directors being present and Jacqueline de Rojas, the SID, chaired a meeting of the NEDs in December 2023, at which the performance of the Chair was reviewed, without him being present. Date of Board appointment/resignation Independent Peter Brooks-Johnson, Executive Director 10 January 2011/6 March 2023 Alison Dolan, Executive Director 7 September 2020 Andrew Findlay, Non-Executive Director 1 June 2017 √ Andrew Fisher 1 , Non-Executive Chair 1 January 2020 Rakhi Goss-Custard 2 , Non-Executive Director 28 July 2014/5 May 2023 √ Jacqueline de Rojas, Non-Executive Director 30 December 2016 √ Kriti Sharma, Non-Executive Director 25 July 2023 √ Johan Svanstrom, Executive Director 20 February 2023 Lorna Tilbian, Non-Executive Director 1 February 2018 √ Amit Tiwari, Non-Executive Director 1 July 2019 √ (1) Considered independent on appointment. (2) Rakhi Goss-Custard could not attend the February 2023 Board meeting due to a prior commitment. Rakhi passed her approvals and any comments in relation to the Board papers to the Chair in advance of the meeting. Board changes during 2023 Executive Director Peter Brooks-Johnson stepped down from the Board on 6 March 2023 and Independent Non-Executive Director Rakhi Goss-Custard stepped down following the AGM on 5 May 2023. Johan Svanstrom was appointed as an Executive Director on 28 February 2023 and Kriti Sharma was appointed as an Independent Non- Executive Director on 25 July 2023. Board Remuneration Audit Nomination Corporate Responsibility Total Meetings 7 6 5 3 2 Peter Brooks-Johnson (1) 1/1 – – – 1/1 Alison Dolan 7/7 – – – 2/2 Andrew Findlay 7/7 – 5/5 3/3 2/2 Andrew Fisher 7/7 – – 3/3 2/2 Rakhi Goss-Custard (2) 1/2 2/3 – 0/1 0/1 Jacqueline de Rojas 7/7 6/6 5/5 3/3 2/2 Kriti Sharma (3) 4/4 – 2/2 2/2 1/1 Johan Svanstrom 7/7 – – – 2/2 Lorna Tilbian 7/7 6/6 – 3/3 2/2 Amit Tiwari 7/7 3/3 3/3 3/3 2/2 (1) Peter Brooks-Johnson stepped down from the Board on 6 March 2023. (2) Rakhi Goss-Custard did not attend the meeting on 28 February 2023 due to a prior commitment and she stepped down from the Board on 5 May 2023. (3) Kriti Sharma has attended all meetings since being appointed as a Non-Executive Director on 25 July 2023. ![]() 74 | Rightmove plc | Annual Report 2023 #### Board activities in 2023 Standing agenda items at each scheduled meeting are: Governance; Board Committee reports from the chair of each committee; CEO report; Finance and Investor Relations reports; strategic or business area ‘deep dives’/presentations. Risk and Principal Risks and Uncertainties are reviewed every six months. A cyber security review is performed by the Audit Committee annually. ESG is reviewed every six months by the Corporate Responsibility Committee. #### Our six stakeholder groups Our six stakeholder groups are set out below and you can read more about how we obtain feedback from them in our Section 172 Statement on page 23. Month in 2023 Stakeholder focus Board activity On the agenda Other events January No scheduled Board meetings in January Investor consultation on Remuneration Policy (led by the Remuneration Committee) February Full-year Results People Trac Deep dives Risk • Annual Financial Report 2022 • Final Dividend • Viability statement • Fair, Balanced and Understandable statement • Risk review • People updates (Have Your Say results) • Trac deep dive • Product Development deep dive • Tax Strategy review • Gender Pay Gap report • Modern Slavery Act Statement • Payment Practices Report (2022) • Executive session (NEDs only) Appointment of new Executive Director, Johan Svanstrom Annual report committee reports reviewed and approved by each committee March Annual Report Approval of the nal Annual Financial Report 2022 (by Board committee) Publication of Annual Financial Report 2022 and Notice of AGM 2023 Appointment of new CEO, Johan Svanstrom April No scheduled Board meetings in April Governance | Corporate governance report continued The table below shows how our stakeholder groups have been considered in Board decision making. Shareholders Customers Consumers Employees Business partners Communities and environment ![]() Rightmove plc | Annual Report 2023 | 75 STRATEGIC REPORT GOVERNANCE FINANCIAL STATEMENTS Month in 2023 Stakeholder focus Board activity On the agenda Other events May AGM Deep dive AGM brieng (NEDs only) Business area update - Tenant Services AGM NED Customer meetings June Strategy AI Brand O-site two-day strategy event with Board and senior leadership AI workshop Brand strategy NED Customer meetings July Risk Half-year Results Risk review Half-year nancial results Interim dividend Share Buyback programme Cyber Insurance Payment Practices report (to June 2023) Half-year results published Appointment of new Non-Executive Director Kriti Sharma NED Customer meetings August No scheduled Board meetings in August Approval of new Board Diversity, Equity and Inclusion Policy September People Diversity ESG AI Deep dive Employee engagement sessions Have Your Say employee survey results ESG strategy review Articial Intelligence discovery update Business area update – Products and Pricing for New Homes NED Customer meetings October No scheduled Board meetings in October Board update call November Business plan 2024 Investor Day Deep dive Insurance Business plan presentations Insurance renewal Investor Day plans Business area update – Commercial Executive session (NEDs only) Investor Day on 27 November December Governance and Performance Cyber security review Cyber security review Legal and corporate governance update Annual review of governance, policies and procedures Annual Board, Committee and Chair performance review and objective setting Cyber security is reviewed by the Audit Committee ![]() 76 | Rightmove plc | Annual Report 2023 In addition to scheduled Board meetings, Board members attend update calls to consider and discuss matters as and when necessary. Ongoing, less formal communication also takes place outside of Board meetings between the Chair and the Executive Directors and Group Leadership Team, and between the Non-Executive Directors. NED-only sessions take place at the end of Board meetings on a regular basis. To read more about the activities of the Board’s four committees, please turn to: Corporate Responsibility – page 91 Nomination – page 86 Audit – page 79 Remuneration – page 94 Investor Relations activity in 2023 One-to-one meetings with investors take place throughout the year on request. March 2023 Full-year results presentation Full-year results roadshow UK investor conference April 2023 May 2023 Annual General Meeting UK investor conference June 2023 UK investor conferences July 2023 Half-year results presentation Half-year results roadshow September 2023 October 2023 US investor meetings November 2023 Investor Day December 2023 US investor roadshow How the Board assesses and monitors culture Rightmove’s open, supportive and innovative culture is described in more detail in the ESG Report. Executive Directors lead by example in maintaining a collegiate culture with an open plan oce environment, hybrid working and a strong emphasis on well-being. Regular Town Hall all-employee webinars provide employees with business updates, led by the CEO and senior leadership. All Directors engage with employees, through a variety of channels, as set out in our S172 Statement and in the Social section of the ESG report. The Board also reviews and discusses the results of the bi-annual ‘Have Your Say’ employee survey with the Executive Directors and Director of People, with a percentage of the Executive Directors’ variable bonus directly dependent on the survey results – more information on this can be found in the Directors’ Remuneration Report on page 96. Non-Executive Directors also hold employee engagement sessions – see below for further details. Employee engagement In response to the Code requirement, the Board has developed a bespoke approach to employee engagement, with all Non-Executive Directors engaging face-to-face with employees at Rightmove in conversational sessions during the year. Further details can be found in the Social section of the ESG report. Whistleblowing The Company reviewed and approved its Whistleblowing Policy, arrangements and procedures in November 2023. An independently operated whistleblowing line is in place and is available for and communicated to all employees, who can report their concerns anonymously if they wish. Reports can be made by email or telephone or to the Company Secretary in person. During 2023, four whistleblowing line reports were made by users of the Rightmove property portal, all related to customer services or data quality matters, and all were quickly resolved by our customer services and data quality teams. No whistleblowing line reports were made by Rightmove employees during 2023. Board diversity, composition and balance Board Diversity The Board has approved a Board Diversity, Equity and Inclusion Policy and is committed to diversity, equity, and inclusion. Rightmove plc’s Board believes that diversity, equity, and inclusion are fundamental to the Company’s long-term success and that greater diversity delivers competitive advantages. A diverse and inclusive Board, comprising Directors with a range of skills, knowledge, experiences, backgrounds, genders, ages, ethnicities, and other protected and non- protected characteristics and who possess dierent perspectives, insights and viewpoints promotes good decision making and delivers commercial advantages in the long term. Board and Board committee appointments are made on merit against a set of objective criteria in the context of the skills, experience, independence, knowledge and diversity that the Board requires to be eective. This Policy should be read alongside Rightmove’s Equality Policy and Code of Conduct. Rightmove supports the FTSE Women Leaders Review. As at the date of this report, 50% of the Rightmove Board and 50% of the Executive Directors are female. There is also a strong female presence in our senior leadership teams. Further details on Diversity at Rightmove can be found in the Social section of this annual report. Governance | Corporate governance report continued ![]() Rightmove plc | Annual Report 2023 | 77 STRATEGIC REPORT GOVERNANCE FINANCIAL STATEMENTS As at the date of this report, 37.5% of the Board were from ethnically diverse backgrounds, exceeding the Parker Review target that Rightmove supports and voluntarily reports on. We can also report that at the date of this report, in line with Listing Rule 9.8.6R(9), Rightmove has over-achieved the following Board diversity targets: • 50% of the individuals on the Board of Directors are women (Listing Rule target is 40%) • Two senior positions are held by women (Chief Financial Ocer is Alison Dolan and Senior Independent Director is Jacqueline de Rojas) (Listing Rule target is one senior position) • Three individuals on the Board are from a minority ethnic background (Listing Rule target is one individual). For full details please refer to the gender and ethnicity reporting tables below. Gender identity reporting table Number of Board members Percentage of the Board Number of senior positions on the Board (CEO, CFO, SID and Chair) Number in executive management\* Percentage of executive management\* Men 4 50% 2 3 50% Women 4 50% 2 3 50% Not specied/prefer not to say – – – – – Ethnic background reporting table White British or other White (including minority white groups) 5 62.5% – 4 67% Mixed/Multiple Ethnic Groups 1 12.5% – – – Asian/Asian British 2 25% – 1 16.5% Black/African/Caribbean/Black British – – – – – Other ethnic group including Arab – – – 1 16.5% Not specied/prefer not to say – – – – – \* Under Listing Rule 9, executive management is defined as the executive committee or most senior executive or managerial body below the Board (or where there is no such formal committee or body, the most senior level of managers reporting to the chief executive), including the company secretary but excluding administrative and support staff. ![]() 78 | Rightmove plc | Annual Report 2023 Governance | Corporate governance report continued Board independence, external appointments and performance review More than half of the Rightmove plc Board are independent Non-Executive Directors (excluding the Chair) as identied in the Board biographies starting on page 70. Please turn to the Nomination Committee report on page 86 for full details of how Board members’ external appointments are managed and the results of this year’s Board performance review. How conicts of interest are managed Under the Companies Act 2006 (the Act), the Directors have a statutory duty to avoid situations in which they have, or could have, a direct or indirect conict with the interests of the Company. The Company’s Articles of Association contain provisions for managing and authorising potential conicts of interest. The Board has a Conicts of Interest Policy in place and continues to observe the policy and to review the Register of Directors’ Interests at least annually. Any external appointments must be approved by the Board before they can be accepted. To safeguard their independence, a Director is not entitled to vote on any matter in which they may be conicted or have a personal interest. If necessary, Directors are required to absent themselves from a meeting of the Board while such matters are being discussed and, if there is any doubt, the Chair of the Board is responsible for determining whether a conict of interest exists. No such conicts of interest arose in 2023. The interests of the Directors in the share capital of the Company as at the date of this report, the Directors’ total remuneration for the year and details of their service contracts and Letters of Appointment are set out in the Directors’ Remuneration Report. As at the date of this report, the Directors were deemed to have a non-benecial interest in 999,627 ordinary shares held by The Rightmove Employees Share Trust. Board composition Executive Directors Chair Non-Executive Directors 5 1 2 Board skills & experience Finance & governance Voice of the customer/ property market Technology & innovation Voice of the consumer & retail Digital marketing & online media Corporate transactions 7 4 5 5 2 4 Board gender Female Male 44 Board age 60+ 50- 59 40- 49 Non-ExecutiveExecutive No. of Directors Age range 0 1 2 3 4 0-3 years Board tenure 3-6 years 6-9 years 9+ years 2 1 4 1 0-3 years 3-6 years Female Male Finance and governance Voice of the customer/ property market Technology and innovation Voice of the consumer and retail Digital marketing and online media Corporate transactions 6-9 years Executive Directors Chair Non-Executive Directors Executive Non-Executive Age range Board genderBoard tenure Board composition Board age (No. of Directors) Board skills and experience Corporation tax Employment taxes Business rates Stamp duty and other 2 4 4 42 2 1 2 2 2 2 5 5524 7 4 30-3960+ 50-59 40-49 Board composition and the balance of skills and experience ![]() Rightmove plc | Annual Report 2023 | 79 STRATEGIC REPORT GOVERNANCE FINANCIAL STATEMENTS Dear Shareholder As Chair of the Audit Committee (the Committee), I am pleased to present the Committee’s report for the year ended 31 December 2023. In this report we aim to provide an overview of the principal activities of the Committee during the year and an update on the key areas of review as the Committee discharged its responsibilities. The Committee’s key responsibilities are set out in the Corporate Governance Report on page 69. The Committee has overseen a detailed programme of work during 2023, including agreeing the scope, and reviewing the results, of the work delivered by the outsourced internal audit function provided by PwC. This year, PwC reported on GDPR compliance; readiness for the new corporate reforms; compliance with the FCA regime of the subsidiary Rightmove Financial Services; and the design and planning for the implementation of the second phase of the new ERP. The Committee also reviewed the results of the work delivered by Telstra – a third-party cyber specialist – on ISO 27001 gap analysis. A further key area of focus for the Committee during the year was the monitoring of the plan for the transition to an inhouse internal audit function in 2024. The Committee, as part of its annual governance cycle, also reviewed the Group’s Treasury, Bribery and Whistleblowing policies, the Gifts and Hospitality Register, and the Non- Audit Services Policy. Looking forward to the next 12 months, the Committee will continue to focus on key risk areas such as cyber security and regulatory compliance, and to support the Company’s overall risk management framework. The implementation of the billing functionality within the ERP system will also be a key priority for the Committee during 2024, as will the successful set up of the new inhouse internal audit function. In addition to its annual performance evaluation, the Committee carried out a review of its terms of reference in relation to the 2018 UK Corporate Governance Code. These are published on the Investor Relations section of the Group’s website at plc.rightmove.co.uk and are available in hard copy from the Company Secretary. I will be available at the AGM to answer any questions about the work of the Committee. Andrew Findlay Chair of the Audit Committee #### Audit Committee report summary 2023 Activities The Committee met ve times during 2023 and its key activities were to: • assess the integrity of the Group’s half-year report and annual nancial statements, considering the application of nancial reporting and governance standards and management’s approach to any key judgmental areas of reporting and the related comments of the external auditor • conrm that the Annual Report is as a whole fair, balanced and understandable • review and approve the year-to- date trading statement issued on 27 November • review the eectiveness of Rightmove’s internal control processes • assess management’s implementation plan for the new billing system • review the updated cyber response plan and develop a third-party supplier framework • input into transition plans to bring internal audit inhouse in 2024, including the selection of the new Head of Internal Audit and the overlap with PwC • agree the scope and terms of reference for the reviews undertaken by Internal Audit and to review progress on internal actions and assess the conclusions and recommendations of Internal Audit • evaluate the eectiveness of the external auditor and the Internal Audit function, and • review and challenge the Internal Audit plan for 2024. Committee’s remit The Committee is an essential part of Rightmove’s governance framework, to which the Board has delegated oversight of the accounting, nancial reporting and internal control processes, the outsourced internal audit function and the review of the eectiveness and quality of the external auditor. 2024 Priorities • continued focus on key risk areas such as compliance, cyber and data security • review of internal audit reviews: including business continuity/ crisis management, new supplier due diligence procedures, ISO 27001 controls and the implementation of phase 2 of the new nance ERP system, as well as monitoring the transition from an outsourced internal audit function to the new internal audit team. Andrew Findlay Chair of the Audit Committee Jacqueline de Rojas Amit Tiwari (stepped down 25 July 2023) Kriti Sharma (appointed 25 July 2023) The Group’s external auditor is EY LLP. PwC LLP provided internal audit services during 2023. Governance | Audit Committee report Committee members and auditor The Committee members are independent Non-Executive Directors and comprise: Committee meetings and attendance For full details please refer to the Corporate Governance report on page 73. ![]() 80 | Rightmove plc | Annual Report 2023 #### Audit Committee membership, meetings #### and eectiveness Audit Committee membership All the members of the Audit Committee are Independent Non-Executive Directors in accordance with provision 24 of the UK Corporate Governance Code (the Code). The Board has determined that Andrew Findlay, as the Committee Chair, has the recent and relevant nancial experience required by the Code, given his several executive nance roles, which include his previous roles as Chief Financial Ocer at a variety of businesses, as well as his current role as Chief Executive Ocer at M Group Services. Andrew is also a chartered accountant with the Institute of Chartered Accountants in England and Wales. In line with the Code, the Committee possesses experience relevant to the business, through the digital, consumer and nancial experience of Andrew Findlay, the technology background of Jacqueline de Rojas, the deep nancial and capital markets expertise of Amit Tiwari and the Articial Intelligence expertise of Kriti Sharma. As Amit Tiwari had joined the Remuneration Committee in May 2023, he stepped down from the Audit Committee on 25 July 2023 when Kriti Sharma was appointed. Biographies of the members of the Committee and the committee meetings and attendance of the members are set out in the Corporate Governance Report. Audit Committee meetings Regular attendees at Audit Committee meetings include the Chair, CEO and CFO as well as the external and internal auditors. The Committee also invited appropriate members of the management team to meetings as necessary, to maintain eective communication between all relevant parties. The Committee periodically set time aside to meet privately with the external and internal auditors and seek their views without the presence of management. The auditors had direct access to the Chair to raise any concerns outside formal Committee meetings and, in between meetings, the Chair maintained contact with the Chief Financial Ocer, external audit partner, PwC internal audit manager and other members of the management team. After each meeting, the Chair reported to the Board on the main issues discussed by the Committee and minutes of the Committee meetings were circulated to the Board once approved. Audit Committee eectiveness The eectiveness of the operation of the Committee was reviewed in December 2023 as part of the internal Board and Committee performance review. The feedback on the Committee was unanimously positive and armed that the Committee is eective and provides appropriate challenge. For full details see page 90 of the corporate governance report. #### Financial reporting Annual and half-year reports The Committee is responsible for reviewing the appropriateness of the Group’s half-year report and annual nancial statements. The Committee has considered, among other things, the accounting policies and practices adopted by the Group; the correct application of reporting standards and compliance with broader governance requirements, including the reporting for climate-based nancial disclosures (TCFD); the use of Alternative Performance Measures; the approach taken by management to any key judgmental areas of reporting; the comments of the external auditor on management’s chosen approach; and the information, underlying assumptions and stress-test analysis presented in support of the Going Concern status and Viability Statement. Signicant accounting matters The key signicant accounting matter is revenue recognition. The Committee considers this area to be signicant given the volume of transactions and the fact that revenue is the most material gure in the income statement. The Committee discussed revenue recognition in detail, including the underlying policies, processes and controls, to ensure that the approach taken to accounting and disclosure remains appropriate. Revenue recognition Revenue is a prime area of audit focus, particularly the timing of recognition in relation to the billing of subscription fees, additional products and the accounting for any material membership oers to customers. As more fully described in Note 1 to the accounts, most of the Group’s revenue is derived from membership subscriptions for core listing fees and advertising products on Rightmove’s platforms. Customers can tailor their packages. The Group recognises this revenue over the period of the contract or the point at which advertising products are used. During the year, management performed data analytics procedures on the amounts billed to the two largest customer groups (Agency and New Homes). This included investigating anomalies such as billing gaps and single bills raised and reporting to the Committee in this regard. The Committee discussed any anomalies with management in relation to the data analytics work performed. The Committee was satised with the explanations provided and conclusions reached. As part of the nancial statement audit, EY performs data analytics work, using computer-assisted audit techniques to identify any unexpected or unusual revenue postings, particularly considering whether the opposite side of the journal entry was as expected, based on the characteristics of the journal. The results of this work were satisfactory and were reported to the Committee. Governance | Audit Committee report continued ![]() Rightmove plc | Annual Report 2023 | 81 STRATEGIC REPORT GOVERNANCE FINANCIAL STATEMENTS Going concern and viability The Committee also reviewed and considered Going Concern and Viability statements in relation to the 2023 nancial statements. Going concern and viability statements In assessing the validity of the Viability and Going Concern statements detailed on pages 64 and 65, the Committee reviewed the work undertaken by management to assess the Group’s resilience to the Principal Risks set out on pages 60 to 63 under various stress test scenarios, including a reverse stress test: the scenarios modelled were severe but plausible and did not call into question the viability of the business. The Committee concluded that the viability time- period of three years remained appropriate. The Committee were satised that sucient rigour was built into the process to assess going concern and viability over the designated periods. Fair balanced and understandable One of the key governance requirements is for the Annual Report and the Financial Statements, taken as a whole, to be fair, balanced and understandable, and to provide the information necessary for stakeholders to assess the Group’s position and performance, business model and strategy. The Committee was provided with an early draft of the Annual Report in order to assess the strategic direction and key messages being communicated. Feedback was provided by the Committee in advance of the February 2024 Board meeting, highlighting any areas where the Committee believed further clarity was required. The draft report was then amended to incorporate this feedback prior to being tabled at the Board meeting for nal comment and approval. To help the Committee in forming its opinion, management presented a fair, balanced and understandable paper to the February 2024 Audit Committee, which identied the key themes in the Annual Report and assessed whether each of the governance requirements were met. When forming its opinion, the Committee reected on the information it had received and its discussions throughout the year. It considered the key messages for 2023 and whether these are appropriately and consistently disclosed throughout the Annual Report, with equal prominence of front half reporting and nancial statements; with no bias or omissions; and with clear language within a structured framework. In particular, the Committee considered: Is the report fair? • Is the whole story presented and has any sensitive material been omitted that should have been included? • Are key messages in the narrative aligned with the KPIs and are they reected in the nancial reporting? • Are the KPIs being reported consistently from year to year? • Is the reporting on the business areas in the narrative reporting consistent with the nancial reporting in the nancial statements? Is the report balanced? • Do you get the same messages when reading the front end and back end of the Annual Report independently? • Are threats identied and appropriately highlighted? • Are the alternative performance measures explained clearly with appropriate prominence? • Are the key judgements referred to in the narrative reporting and signicant issues reported in this Committee Report consistent with disclosures of key estimation uncertainties and critical judgements set out in the nancial statements? • How do these judgements compare with the risks that EY are planning to include in their Auditor Report? Is the report understandable? • Is there a clear and cohesive framework for the Annual Report? • Are the important messages highlighted appropriately throughout the Annual Report? • Is the Annual Report written in easily understandable language and are the key messages clearly drawn out? • Is the Annual Report free of unnecessary clutter? Conclusion Following its review, the Committee is of the opinion that the 2023 Annual Report, taken as a whole, is fair, balanced and understandable and provides the information necessary for shareholders to assess the Group’s position, performance, business model and strategy. ![]() 82 | Rightmove plc | Annual Report 2023 Governance | Audit Committee report continued #### External Audit Tenure and terms of engagement The Committee has primary responsibility for overseeing the quality and eectiveness of the external auditor, Ernst & Young LLP (EY), who is engaged to conduct a statutory audit and express an opinion on the nancial statements. The Committee reviews the scope of EY’s audit, which includes the review and testing of the systems of internal nancial control used to produce the information contained in the nancial statements. The Committee approves the terms of engagement and fees of the external auditor, ensuring it has appropriate audit plans in place and that an appropriate relationship is maintained between the Group and the external auditor. The Committee approved the audit fees of £400,000 and non-audit fees of £40,000 for the year, as set out in Note 5 of the nancial statements. EY was appointed as auditor of the Group at the 2022 AGM, following a formal tender process. They were reappointed at the May 2023 AGM. The external audit engagement partner is Anup Sodhi, who has held oce since May 2022. Independence and non-audit services The Board has policies in place in relation to the provision of non-audit services by the external auditor, and the non-audit fee policy was reviewed by the Committee during the year. The non-audit fee policy ensures that the Group benets in a cost-eective manner from the cumulative knowledge and experience of its auditor, while also ensuring that the auditor maintains the necessary degree of independence and objectivity. Non-audit services policy • Permitted non-audit services relate to Assurance-related services directly related to the audit – for example, the review of the half-year Financial Statements – and to Permitted non-audit services; including, but not limited to, accounting advice, work related to mergers, acquisitions, disposals, joint ventures or circulars, sustainability audits and reports required by regulators. • The half-year Review, an assurance-related non-audit service, is approved as part of the Audit Committee approval of the external audit plan, which takes place in May of each year. Management is authorised to incur additional fees for permitted non-audit services of up to £15,000 in any nancial year, without any prior approval from the Committee. • Thereafter, all additional fees are to be referred to the Audit Committee in advance, subject to the cap of 70% of the fees paid for the audit in the last three consecutive nancial years. Prohibited services policy • In line with the FRC ethical standards, these are services where the auditor’s objectivity and independence may be compromised. Prohibited services are detailed in the FRC Revised Ethical Standards 2019 and include tax services, accounting services, internal audit services and valuation services. The level of non-audit fees as a proportion of the audit fee has typically been low at Rightmove. During the year, EY charged the Group £40,000 for non-audit services, representing 10% of the 2023 audit fee. Further details of these services can be found in Note 5 to the nancial statements. External auditor eectiveness The Committee places great importance on ensuring that the external audit is both of high quality and eective. The Committee considered the quality and eectiveness of the external audit process in line with the FRC’s Practice Aid for Audit Committees (updated 2019). The eectiveness of the external audit process is dependent on several factors, including the quality, continuity, experience and training of audit personnel; understanding of the business model, strategy and risks; technical knowledge and degree of rigour applied in the review processes of the work undertaken; communication of key accounting and audit judgements; together with appropriate audit risk identication at the start of the audit cycle. The Committee also met with EY at various stages during the 2023 audit process, several times without management present, to discuss its remit and any issues arising from its work as the auditor. The Committee reviewed its evaluation of the eectiveness of the external audit process with reference to the FRC’s Minimum Standard issued in May 2023, which consolidated guidance to Audit Committees in relation to oversight of the external auditor. Audit Quality Indicators (AQIs) continued to be used in a questionnaire to gather views and comments from the Committee members and a targeted group of management who have regular interactions with the external auditor. Areas considered in the review included the quality of the audit planning and leadership; the use of technology; communication and reporting with the Committee and management; and technical capability and experience of the audit team. For the 2023 nancial year, the Committee was satised that there had been appropriate focus and challenge on the primary areas of audit risk and concluded that the performance of EY remained ecient and eective. ![]() Rightmove plc | Annual Report 2023 | 83 STRATEGIC REPORT GOVERNANCE FINANCIAL STATEMENTS External auditor independence and objectivity The Committee considered the safeguards in place to protect the external auditor’s independence. EY reported to the Committee that it had considered its independence in relation to the audit and conrmed to the Committee that it complies with UK regulatory and professional requirements and that its objectivity is not compromised. The Committee took this into account when considering the external auditor’s independence and concluded that EY remained independent and objective in relation to the audit. Statement of Compliance with the Competition and Markets Authority (CMA) Order The Group conrms that it has complied with The Statutory Audit Services for Large Companies Market Investigation (Mandatory Use of Competitive Processes and Audit Committee Responsibilities) Order 2014 (Article 7.1), including with respect to the Committee’s responsibilities for agreeing the audit scope and fees and authorising non-audit services. #### Internal Audit The Group’s Internal Audit function continued to be outsourced to PwC during 2023: their aim being to provide independent and objective assurance on the adequacy and eectiveness of internal control, risk management and governance processes. This includes assurance that underlying nancial controls and processes are working eectively, as well as specialist operational and compliance reviews that focus on emerging risks in new and evolving areas of the business. During the year, the decision was taken to bring the internal audit function inhouse and a new internal audit function will be set up in March 2024. This decision reects the evolution of the Group as a whole, the increasing complexity of the environment within which it operates and the desire to ensure an appropriate level of continuity in the ownership and monitoring of risks and controls by senior management throughout the year. This will strengthen the second line of defence in the risk management model on page 58. Activities during the year The internal audit plan for 2023 was approved in advance by the Audit Committee and covered a broad range of core nancial and operational processes and controls, focusing on specic risk areas. Specialist reviews were undertaken in the following areas: • GDPR Compliance • FCA Compliance of Rightmove Financial Services • Readiness for corporate reform changes • Planning and design of controls for the new billing system The Committee reviewed the reports provided by PwC that set out the principal ndings of their reviews and agreed management actions. The Committee also reviewed open actions from previous reviews and monitored management’s progress in completing these actions. In addition, the Committee reviewed the separate report prepared by Telstra regarding cyber security, specically in relation to ISO 27001 gap analysis. Approach to developing the 2024 internal audit plan PwC, as the outsourced internal auditor, completed their annual detailed review and update of the audit universe at the end of 2023. The audit universe highlights the various functional areas within Rightmove, the associated key process areas, related principal or emerging risks and areas in which internal audit work has been carried out already. From this review and discussions with management PwC recommended their view on the key areas of internal audit focus for 2024 to the Audit Committee. The internal audit plan for 2024 is in line with prior years, in that it includes a combination of traditional internal audit and compliance reviews – primarily with a nancial control or regulatory focus which includes supplier due diligence and business continuity and crisis management in 2024 – as well as reviews with more of an advisory focus. The 2024 internal audit plan also includes some elements of outsourced assurance activities for areas of increased specialism such as cyber security and FRC compliance, to supplement the work of the new inhouse internal audit team. PwC will hand over the plan to the new Head of Internal Audit during the rst half of 2024 and assist with the transition to an inhouse audit function. Eectiveness of the internal audit process The work of internal audit provides a key source of additional assurance and support to management and the Audit Committee regarding the eectiveness of internal controls, as well as providing guidance and recommendations to further enhance the internal control environment and specialist insight into areas of change in the business. At the end of the year, the Audit Committee undertook a review of the eectiveness of PwC as the outsourced internal audit function during 2023. The evaluation was led by the Committee Chair and involved issuing tailored evaluation questionnaires which were completed by Rightmove management, EY, and the Committee. The evaluation concluded that the function had a sound appreciation of the key issues facing the business, was realistic and robust with audit suggestions and added value to the business. ![]() 84 | Rightmove plc | Annual Report 2023 #### Risk management During the year, the Group further developed its cyber attack response and its third-party supplier due diligence framework. These were both assessed by the Audit Committee as it considered the nature and extent of the Group’s risk management framework. The Audit Committee reviewed the work undertaken by the Risk Committee and the Board to assess the Group’s principal risks and uncertainties, which included an assessment of each risk and the related response, and progress made against any actions. Further details on the Group’s approach to risk management are set out in the risk management section of the Strategic Report. Internal controls The Board has overall responsibility for the Group’s system of internal controls and has established a framework of nancial and other controls which is periodically reviewed for eectiveness in accordance with the FRC Guidance on Risk Management, Internal Control and Related Financial and Business Reporting (which integrates and replaces earlier FRC guidance and the Turnbull Guidance). The Board has taken, and will continue to take, appropriate measures to ensure that the risk of nancial irregularities occurring is reduced as far as reasonably possible by improving the quality of information at all levels in the Group. Any system of internal control is designed to manage rather than eliminate the risk of failure to achieve business objectives and can only provide reasonable, and not absolute, assurance against material misstatement or loss. The Group’s management has established the procedures necessary to ensure that there is an ongoing process for identifying, evaluating and managing the principal risks to the Group. These procedures are reviewed regularly and have been in place for the whole of the nancial year ended 31 December 2023, and up to the date of the approval of these nancial statements. Rightmove’s internal audit function (fully outsourced to PwC during 2023) provides the Group with additional independent assurance on the eectiveness of internal controls. The key elements of the system of internal control are: • Major commercial, strategic, competitive, nancial and regulatory risks being formally identied, quantied and assessed by senior management, after which they are considered by the Board • A comprehensive system of planning, budgeting and monitoring of Group results. This includes monthly management reporting and monitoring of performance against both budgets and forecasts, with explanations for all signicant variances • An organisational structure with clearly dened lines of responsibility and delegation of authority, and an embedded culture of openness where business decisions and their associated risks and benets are discussed and challenged • Clearly dened policies for capital expenditure and investment exist, including appropriate authorisation levels, with larger capital projects, acquisitions and disposals requiring Board approval • Ongoing management of cash ow forecasts and cash on deposit and, where appropriate, monitoring of compliance with banking agreements • A Compliance Framework to support the Group’s FCA- regulated subsidiaries in meeting regulatory requirements; • A Data Protection Framework to ensure the Group is meeting the requirements of the GDPR and Data Protection Act 2018; • A Cyber Security plan which identies and categorises cyber security threats and controls, which are regularly reviewed by the Board and Audit Committee; • A Legal and Compliance function which has responsibility to oversee legal, compliance, risk and data protection matters; • An Anti-Bribery Policy outlining the Group’s position on preventing and prohibiting bribery; • A Financial Crime Policy, outlining the Group’s position on the prevention of nancial crime; • A Whistleblowing Policy to encourage employees and others who have serious concerns about any aspect of the Group’s conduct to come forward and voice those concerns; and • A comprehensive disaster recovery and business continuity plan based upon: – co-hosting of the Rightmove.co.uk website across three separate locations, which is regularly tested and reviewed – the ability of the business to maintain business-critical activities in the event of an incident – the capability for employees to work remotely in the event of a loss of one of our premises, which is regularly tested through planned oce closures – regular testing of the security of the IT systems and platforms, regular backups of key data and ongoing threat monitoring to protect against the risk of cyber-attack. Through the procedures outlined above, the Board, with advice from the Audit Committee, has considered all signicant aspects of internal control for the year and up to the date of this Annual Report. No signicant failings or weaknesses were identied during this review. The control environment is being further strengthened by the ongoing implementation of the new nance ERP system, which will extend into 2024 with the addition of the billing functionality and procurement functionality. Governance | Audit Committee report continued ![]() Rightmove plc | Annual Report 2023 | 85 STRATEGIC REPORT GOVERNANCE FINANCIAL STATEMENTS Anti-bribery and whistleblowing The Code includes a provision requiring the Committee to review arrangements by which employees of the Group may, in complete condence, raise concerns about possible improprieties in relation to nancial reporting or other matters. The Committee’s objective is to ensure that arrangements are in place for the proportionate and independent investigation of such matters and for the appropriate follow-up action. Rightmove is committed to the highest standards of quality, honesty, openness and accountability. The Group has a whistleblowing process, which enables employees of the Group to raise genuine concerns on an entirely condential basis, that includes a third-party ‘speak up’ facility provided by Navex Global. The Committee receives reports on the communication of the Whistleblowing Policy to the business and on the use of the service which contains information on any whistleblowing incidents and their outcomes. The Board believes that it is important for the Group and its employees to follow clear and transparent business practices and to consistently apply high ethical standards in all business dealings, thereby supporting the objectives of the Bribery Act 2010. A Bribery Policy exists to set out what is expected from employees and other stakeholders acting on the Group’s behalf, to ensure that they protect both themselves and the Group’s reputation and assets. The Committee reviews the Bribery Policy annually to ensure it reects best practice. Employees are required to sign up to Rightmove’s Bribery Policy on appointment, and any updates are communicated to all employees. Rightmove has a zero-tolerance approach to bribery and any breach of the Bribery Act is regarded as serious misconduct, justifying immediate dismissal. All corporate gifts and hospitality oered or received valued at more than £100 are recorded in the Group’s gifts and hospitality register. Prior approval is required for any gifts or hospitality greater than £150, and the register is examined by the Committee at least annually. ![]() #### Nomination Committee report 86 | Rightmove plc | Annual Report 2023 Governance | Nomination Committee report Dear Shareholder I am pleased to present the report of the Nomination Committee for 2023. The Committee supports the Board and senior leadership team on composition, appointments, diversity and succession planning. The successful delivery of Rightmove’s business strategy and the promotion of a culture based on Rightmove’s values requires eective leadership at Board and senior level. One of the Committee’s main focuses this year was the induction of Johan Svanstrom, who joined the Board of Rightmove on 20 February 2023, and was appointed CEO on 6 March 2023. The Committee also oversaw the search, appointment and induction process for a new independent Non-Executive Director, Kriti Sharma, who was appointed as Director on 25 July 2023. This year, the Board approved a Board Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion Policy, setting out the Board’s support for and advocacy of diversity and inclusion. The Committee has also reviewed Rightmove’s performance in diversity and inclusion matters and its gender and ethnicity pay gap reporting. The Committee has also considered the Board’s competencies and skills to understand any potential areas of expertise or knowledge required to support its succession planning process. The Committee is mindful of Non- Executive Directors that are approaching their nine-year tenure limits in the next two to three years and will ensure that any appointments to the Board fully support Rightmove’s strategic objectives. An internal performance review of the Board and its four committees was also carried out during the year and the results of that review are on page 90. An externally facilitated Board performance review will take place during 2024. I hope that you will nd that this report illustrates our rm commitment to ensuring that the Board and its committees have the right balance of skills, expertise, and diversity to continue to support sustainable success for Rightmove. Andrew Fisher Chair of the Nomination Committee Committee membership: Committee responsibilities: • Reviews the Group’s organisational structure and senior level succession plans • Considers the diversity of the Board, committees and senior management • Considers and formulates recommendations for the Board in relation to its composition and balance • Identies and nominates for the approval of the Board, appropriate individuals for Board and committee appointments • Oversees an orderly appointment and induction process • Reviews the directorships and other external appointments held by Board members, taking account of demands on each Director’s time • Approves the processes for Board performance reviews, considers the results of those reviews, and formulates actions to ensure continuous improvement. The full Nomination Committee Terms of Reference can be found at: plc.rightmove.co.uk Andrew Fisher Chair of the Nomination Committee Jacqueline de Rojas Amit Tiwari Kriti Sharma Andrew Findlay Lorna Tilbian ![]() Rightmove plc | Annual Report 2023 | 87 STRATEGIC REPORT GOVERNANCE FINANCIAL STATEMENTS #### Nomination Committee composition and governance The Committee has six members, all of whom are Non-Executive Directors, and a majority are independent. Details of the Committee’s membership and attendance at the three meetings held in 2023 are set out in the Corporate Governance report. The biographical details of each director can be found on page 70. #### Nomination Committee activities in 2023 Meeting date On the Committee’s agenda Outcome For further information 28 February • The report of the Nomination Committee for 2022 (Annual Report and Accounts 2022) The Nomination Committee report for 2022 was reviewed and approved Annual Report 2022 plc.rightmove.co.uk 22 September • Gender and Diversity at Rightmove • Board skills and competencies review • Non-Executive Director succession planning • 2023 Internal Board performance review format and timeline The Committee was satised that Rightmove continued to make good progress on diversity and inclusion at Rightmove. Details of gender and ethnic diversity and gender pay gap reports are published in Rightmove’s annual reports and on its investor website. Board skills and competencies were assessed using a skills matrix to establish where the Committee needed to focus its search. The review helped to inform discussion on succession planning. The internal Board performance review was discussed, and it was agreed to continue to use a questionnaire format for the 2023 review. For further details on diversity and inclusion see the Social section of the ESG Report Gender Pay Gap Reports can be found at plc.rightmove.co.uk Details of Board skills and competences can be found in the Corporate Governance Report 4 December • Results of 2023 internal Board performance review (including the review of the Chair’s performance) and objective setting • Parker Review submission for 2023 • Planning for the 2024 external Board performance review • Committee Terms of Reference annual review The results of the 2023 internal Board performance review were discussed and objectives agreed to focus on in 2024. The Parker Review submission for 2023 was submitted by the Secretary. The Secretary arranged for an external agency to assist with the 2024 review. The Committee’s Terms of Reference were reviewed and approved with no amendments. Corporate Governance report Details of the Parker Review can be found at https://parkerreview.co.uk Full details of the 2024 external Board performance review will be published in the 2024 Annual Report and Accounts The Committee’s full TOR can be found at plc.rightmove.co.uk ![]() 88 | Rightmove plc | Annual Report 2023 Governance | Nomination Committee report continued #### Committee responsibilities Director search, selection, and appointment process The Committee overseas a formal and rigorous search, selection and appointment process for Board and senior management appointments. The process for Board appointments is summarised in the chart below. The process is designed to ensure that the search and appointment is thorough, inclusive and focuses on personal attributes, skills and experience that will complement and augment the existing knowledge and expertise on the Board. Any external search agencies used are scrutinised for their ability to deliver a diverse range of candidates. In 2023, Russell Reynolds Associates were engaged to assist with the search for new Non-Executive Director Kriti Sharma. Russell Reynolds are a signatory to the Voluntary Code of Conduct for executive search rms and, other than the provision of search services, do not have any other connection to the Company or its Directors. 1: Review Board skills and competencies are reviewed and the search criteria are established. External support is engaged 2: Consider and Identify Preparation of role brief and person specication. Candidate long lists drawn up and candidates are approached to assess interest and suitability 3: Assessment and Interviews Formal, multi-stage interviews are held, normally conducted by the Chair and Chief People Ocer with other Board or senior management personnel as appropriate 4: Recommendations and Appointment Feedback is discussed and recommendations are made to the Board, ensuring that any conicts or signicant time committments have been considered and authorised as necessary Rightmove Board search, selection and appointment process Searching for and appointing a new Non-Executive Director – Kriti Sharma During 2023, the Committee led the search for a new independent Non-Executive Director, following the retirement of Rakhi Goss-Custard on 5 May 2023. Russell Reynolds was engaged to assist with the search. Following the Committee’s normal process (as outlined in the diagram above), Kriti was appointed on 25 July 2023. Kriti brought specialist technology, information and digital skills and expertise to Rightmove and her induction programme was tailored to include induction meetings with Rightmove leaders in those business areas, including the Chief Technology and Product Ocer and the Chief Information Security Ocer. ![]() Rightmove plc | Annual Report 2023 | 89 STRATEGIC REPORT GOVERNANCE FINANCIAL STATEMENTS Board diversity, composition and balance The Committee reviews Board and committee composition, including diversity and the balance of skills, knowledge, and experience, whilst considering the longer-term leadership and succession needs of the Group. Details of Board composition, diversity and balance (including a skills and expertise matrix) can be found in the Corporate Governance report. During the year, the Board approved a Board Diversity, Equity and Inclusion Policy; for further details please turn to page 76. The Committee is satised that, following the internally facilitated Board performance review, the Board and its committees continue to maintain an appropriate balance of skills, knowledge and experience required to fulll their roles eectively. Details of all external appointments held by Directors can be found on page 70. These appointments are acknowledged to enhance the expertise of our Board and provide them with opportunities to learn, widen perspective and further enhance skills. All external appointments are subject to approval by the Board Chair, prior to being accepted. Induction, Board training and development New Directors joining the Board participate in a tailored induction programme, created by the Company Secretary and overseen by the Board Chair. This includes one-to-one meetings with all members of the Board and Executive team and an induction pack containing information about Rightmove’s culture and values, Company policies, procedures, constitution and governance arrangements, investor information and the latest business strategy. Site tours and introductions to colleagues are arranged at our oce locations. Non-Executive Directors have open access to our Executive Directors and the wider Group Leadership Team and can also attend Rightmove briengs and employee events. Board members have access to training and can seek advice from independent professional advisers at the Group’s expense, where expertise or training is required to enable them to perform their duties eectively. During the year, the Board received technical briengs and business updates from members of the Group Leadership Team and senior leadership on key areas such as strategy, business development, risks (including cyber risks), technology, data protection and any legal or regulatory developments. All Directors are required to complete mandatory training, including information security and data protection, which is a requirement for all Rightmove employees. Board and senior management succession planning The Committee takes a long-term approach to Board and senior management succession planning and continuously assesses Rightmove’s needs in relation to the skills, knowledge and expertise available at Board level to meet its business objectives. The Committee also regularly considers the pipeline of talent at Rightmove for future senior leadership roles, ensuring that individuals are recognised for their future potential and that their talent is nurtured and encouraged with appropriate training programmes, exposure to the Board environment, mentoring or coaching. Emerging talent below senior leadership level is also monitored to further grow the talent pipeline to ensure that Rightmove has sustainability built into its succession plans. 0 1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 Non-Executive Director tenure as at 31 December 2023 £930 5 yrs 11 mths 6 yrs 6 mths 7 yrs 4 yrs 6 mths 4 yrs 5 mths Kriti Sharma Andrew Fisher Amit Tiwari Lorna Tilbian Andrew Findlay Jacqueline de Rojas Independence The Board has determined that all Non-Executive Directors are independent in character and judgement and have enough capacity to meet their commitments to Rightmove, including during periods when greater involvement may be required of them. Directors have been able to meet all Rightmove’s requirements during 2023, evidenced by their attendance at and contributions to Board and committee meetings and discussions, as set out in the Corporate Governance section of this report. ![]() 90 | Rightmove plc | Annual Report 2023 Governance | Nomination Committee report continued Board and committees performance review In November 2023, an internal Board and committees performance review was undertaken by the Company Secretary, overseen by the Board Chair. The review was completed by each Board member using an anonymous questionnaire style format and an analysis of the results was reviewed and discussed at the Nomination Committee meeting held on 4 December 2023. Director tenure and independence were also considered as part of that review. No current director’s tenure exceeds nine years. The SID, Jacqueline de Rojas, oversaw the review of the Chair’s performance. Each director, except for the Chair, was asked to complete and return a condential separate questionnaire with opportunities for freestyle comments to be made. The SID discussed feedback with individual Board members where necessary and shared the feedback with the Chair at a one-to-one meeting. The performance review concluded that the Board, each committee, and the Chair continue to perform well and that each Non-Executive Director remains independent and continues to make a signicant contribution to the Board. A set of actions arising from the review feedback were discussed and agreed by the Nomination Committee for 2024 as: #### Board objectives for 2024 Objective 1 Continue to focus on emerging trends, opportunities and threats including cyber risk, regulated business risk, market disruption from competitors and responding quickly to innovation Objective 2 Continue to develop relationships between the Board and GLT members Objective 3 Continue to review senior leader succession planning An externally facilitated review will take place during 2024. Key focuses for the coming year In addition to the regular cycle of business that the Committee considers during the year, over the next 12 months the Committee will continue to focus on succession planning for independent Non-Executive Directors and at senior management level, further developing a strong pipeline of talent, in line with our Board Diversity, Equity and Inclusion Policy, to support Rightmove’s strategy. The externally facilitated Board performance review will also be a focus for the Committee and will require additional time commitments from each Director to allow for in-depth one-to-one interviews and a comprehensive 360 degree analysis process. Annual re-election of Directors As required by the Code, unless stepping down at this year’s AGM, each Director will oer themselves up for re-election or election. The Committee considered, as part of the Board performance review, each Director’s tenure, performance, continuing contribution and other external commitments to ensure that each member of the Board continues to eectively and fully discharge their duties as a Director of, and their responsibilities to, Rightmove plc. ![]() Rightmove plc | Annual Report 2023 | 91 STRATEGIC REPORT GOVERNANCE FINANCIAL STATEMENTS #### Corporate Responsibility #### Committee Governance | Corporate Responsibility Committee report Dear Shareholder I am pleased to present the report of the Corporate Responsibility Committee for 2023. The Committee reviews and approves Rightmove’s ESG strategy, and monitors performance against metrics, including environmental targets and those relating to people, diversity and equity. An important part of the Committee’s work is to monitor workplace culture at Rightmove. We do this in several ways – reviewing and discussing the results of twice-yearly employee engagement surveys, via ‘in person’ engagement with employees in small, informal groups and by receiving formal reports and presentations from senior leadership. We aim to nurture a truly inclusive culture at Rightmove and you can read more about our culture on page 45 and about diversity and inclusion on page 47. This year, the Committee approved our ESG strategy for 2024-2026 with a new Environmental pillar, ‘Go Greener’, which aims to harness the huge reach of the Rightmove property portal to increase engagement on environmental matters and to inspire Rightmove’s own employees to become involved in the route to net zero. Our Social strategy aims to continue to drive inclusivity and equity both at Rightmove and in the communities in which we operate, through an inclusive workplace culture and through focused charitable giving and a new volunteering strategy. Rightmove is enabling its employees to give their time to important causes by allowing them to take up to two days every year to volunteer. Alongside this, Rightmove is doubling its charitable funding over the next three years. I hope that you will enjoy reading this report and learning about the ways in which Rightmove exercises its corporate responsibility. Andrew Fisher Chair of the Corporate Responsibility Committee Committee responsibilities: • Reviews the Group’s ESG strategy, policies, metrics and performance to ensure continued alignment with its commitments, Company culture, legislation and best practice • Considers workforce diversity and inclusion, as part of the Social strategy and commitments • Considers gender pay information and reporting • Reviews the results of employee engagement programmes and surveys • Receives reports from the Risk Committee on the management of risks and the identication of opportunities associated with ESG • Reviews and approves the ESG report for the Annual Report and Accounts The full Corporate Responsibility Committee Terms of Reference can be found at: plc.rightmove.co.uk Andrew Fisher Chair of the Corporate Responsibility Committee Committee membership: Alison Dolan Jacqueline de Rojas Lorna Tilbian Johan Svanstrom Amit Tiwari Kriti Sharma Andrew Findlay ![]() 92 | Rightmove plc | Annual Report 2023 Governance | Corporate Responsibility Committee report #### Corporate Responsibility Committee composition and meetings in 2023 The Committee has eight members, with a majority of independent Non-Executive Directors. Details of the Committee’s membership and attendance at the two meetings held in 2023 are set out in the Corporate Governance report. The biographical details of each Director can be found on page 70. #### Corporate Responsibility Committee activities in 2023 The Committee held two meetings in 2023. Meeting date On the Committee’s agenda Outcome For further information 28 February • The report of the Corporate Responsibility Committee for 2022 (Annual Report and Accounts 2022) • The Sustainability report for 2022 (Annual Report and Accounts 2022) • SBTi submissions update • ESG ratings agencies update • Charitable corporate giving areas of focus The Corporate Responsibility Committee report and Sustainability report for the Annual Report and Accounts 2022 were reviewed and approved and updates on SBTi targets and ESG ratings agencies were noted. The charitable giving areas of focus were noted Annual Report 2022 and Sustainability report plc.rightmove.co.uk 22 September • ESG Strategy 2024-2026 including the new ‘Go Greener’ pillar and the approval of the recruitment of a sustainability ocer for the rst time at Rightmove • Consideration of a new Environmental Policy • ESG Dashboard, including diversity and gender pay • ESG ratings agencies update The ESG strategy and new Environmental Policy was approved. The latest results on the ESG Dashboard and ESG ratings agencies update was noted Annual Report 2023 and ESG pages plc.rightmove.co.uk Committee performance review The Corporate Responsibility Committee reviewed its performance during 2023 as part of the Board and Committee internal performance review, details of which can be found in the Nomination Committee report. ![]() Rightmove plc | Annual Report 2023 | 93 STRATEGIC REPORT GOVERNANCE FINANCIAL STATEMENTS #### Key focuses for the coming year In addition to the regular cycle of business that the Committee considers during the year, over the next 12 months the Committee will continue to focus on ESG matters, receiving progress updates on targets and metrics. Approval has been given for a new sustainability ocer position and the Committee will receive updates on that recruitment and induction process. As part of the new ESG strategy 2024-2026, Rightmove will work with an external agency on a transition plan to help identify how the Company can meet its near term and net zero targets. For full details of our ESG strategy, including our ‘Go Greener’ pillar, please turn to the ESG section of this report. See page 30. ![]() Governance | Corporate governance report Annual Statement by the Chair of the Remuneration Committee Dear Shareholder I am pleased to present the Directors Remuneration Report for Rightmove plc for the year ended 31 December 2023. This report describes the work of the Committee during the year and the ways in which it has applied the Remuneration Policy (Policy) that was approved by shareholders at the 2023 Annual General Meeting (AGM). The ‘Remuneration at a Glance’ section provides an overview of remuneration at Rightmove in 2023 and the Annual Report on Remuneration sets out in further detail the work of the Committee and Rightmove’s remuneration arrangements. The complete 2023 Remuneration Policy can be found at plc.rightmove.co.uk. Changes to the Board and Executive leadership in 2023 Johan Svanstrom joined Rightmove as an Executive Director on 20 February 2023, succeeding Peter Brooks-Johnson as CEO on 6 March 2023. On 5 May 2023, Rakhi Goss-Custard stepped down as a Non-Executive Director, having served the maximum three terms as a Director, and also stepped down as a member of the Remuneration Committee. Non-Executive Director Amit Tiwari was appointed to the Committee on the same day. 2023 performance and stakeholder outcomes The Committee has, as usual, considered the Executive Directors’ remuneration in the light of outcomes for Rightmove’s stakeholders and the Group’s nancial performance. Rightmove has delivered another strong performance in 2023, increasing revenue, operating prot and basic earnings per share, whilst cash has continued to be returned to shareholders through dividends and the share buyback programme. For full details of our nancial performance, please turn to page 20. The highlights in stakeholder outcomes are: • Increasing underlying operating prot by 8%. • Direct shareholders returns of £130.0m through share buybacks and £71.7m paid in dividends during 2023. • The 2023 full year ‘Have your Say’ employee engagement survey showed that employee engagement levels remain strong, with 88% agreeing that Rightmove is a great place to work. • An annual Group pay review resulted in all employees receiving a pay increase of 4%, eective from 1 January 2024. Targeted pay increases were applied on top of this, taking into account market data, and the skillset and experience of employees. • A review of the level of the Group employee pension scheme has resulted in an increase in employer contribution from 6% to 7% of salary, where the employee contribution is at least 4%, to be awarded eective from 1 January 2024. #### Directors’ Remuneration report Governance | Directors’ Remuneration report Committee membership: Remuneration Committee (Committee) responsibilities: • Makes recommendations to the Board on Rightmove’s Remuneration Policy and framework, and in relation to the remuneration of the Chair, Executive Directors, and the Group Leadership Team • Makes recommendations on the structure and level of remuneration and benets below Board level and ensures that the Board is kept aware of any potential business risks arising from those arrangements • Ensures the eective recruitment, retention and fair reward of directors and employees in line with the Remuneration Policy The remuneration and terms of appointment of the Non-Executive Directors are determined by the Board as a whole. The full Remuneration Committee Terms of Reference can be found at plc.rightmove.co.uk. Lorna Tilbian Chair of the Remuneration Committee Jacqueline de Rojas Amit Tiwari 94 | Rightmove plc | Annual Report 2023 ![]() Rightmove plc | Annual Report 2023 | 95 STRATEGIC REPORT GOVERNANCE FINANCIAL STATEMENTS • Rightmove’s customers have experienced increased levels of customer service and enhanced products and services – for full details of this and wider stakeholder considerations, please turn to our Section 172 Statement. 2023 incentive outcomes 2023 Annual bonus The Committee reviewed the nal performance against the bonus plan objectives for 2023, which resulted in an annual bonus payment of 79% of the maximum for Executive Directors (being the maximum allocated as 40% to cash and 60% deferred into Rightmove shares). The bonus reects a strong performance in underlying operating prot (60% of the maximum award), trac share (average time spent on property portals compared to time spent on Rightmove.com) (15% of the maximum award), Rental Services business (number of references delivered) (10% of the maximum award) and Mortgages business (MiPs delivered) (10% of the maximum award). Under the ESG metric, 88% of our employees agreed that Rightmove is a great place to work. Ordinarily, this would have resulted in some vesting under the ESG element of the bonus. However, we did not meet one of our ESG underpins around average hours per employee of mandatory training by year-end, largely as a result of the number of new joiners in the latter part of 2023. Therefore, there is no payout under the ESG element of the bonus. 2021-2023 Performance Share Plan (PSP) Award The 2021-2023 PSP award was based 50% on Relative Total Shareholder Return (TSR) and 50% on Earnings Per Share (EPS). Rightmove’s TSR over the three-year period was below the TSR of the FTSE 350 Index and therefore there was no vesting under this element. EPS growth over the three-year period was in excess of 95% (the maximum target set) and therefore there was full vesting under this element. Therefore, overall, 50% of the PSP awards granted in 2021 will vest due to performance and be subject to an additional two-year holding period. The Committee reviewed the incentive outcomes in the context of wider Group performance, the shareholder and wider stakeholder experience (including our employees) and considers that these incentive outcomes are a fair reection of the Group’s performance and therefore no discretion has been applied. Remuneration Policy: the business context and our new strategy The current remuneration policy was approved at the 2023 AGM with c.92% support from our shareholders. As part of the Policy renewal, headroom was added to the incentive plans, which increased Policy maximums from 175% to 200% of salary for both the bonus and PSP. At the time of implementation, the Committee committed to consulting with shareholders and reviewing the stretch in the performance targets if the headroom was used during the life cycle of the Policy. It is the rst year of a new strategy that increases our drive for medium and long-term growth, and for Rightmove’s impact on the property market as a technology leader. This involves a signicant investment in hiring and successfully onboarding over 120 new heads; increasing the pace of delivery; and working to create saleable products across Mortgages, Commercial, Data, as well as a new package in Estate Agency and all in the context of an ongoing competitive environment. We set this out at our Investor Day on 27 November 2023, where we announced ambitious long-term revenue and prot targets, which are reected in the bonus targets for 2024 and the three-year PSP targets for 2024-2026. For details of our business strategy, please turn to page 9 in the strategic report. Our measures and targets have been updated to focus on the achievement of these goals: 1. Investing in our people: To support medium and long-term growth and remain competitive, signicant investments in hiring and onboarding new people will be required. 2. Absolute prot focus: Given increased focus on organic investment and the associated margin reduction, we propose that the prot target range be set around an absolute prot number, rather than a prot growth target. 3. Remuneration alignment: Reecting our recently agreed strategic priorities, Commercial Real Estate and Mortgages are two key business areas that will be introduced into the bonus to align Executives with the new strategy. 4. Increased focus on ESG: Maintaining the link between our ESG strategy and Executive remuneration and reecting our new Go Greener strategy and our wider ambition to make a dierence on the green agenda, we are proposing to add an explicit Environmental target, to sit alongside our Employee Engagement target. Investor engagement and approach for 2024 The Committee proposes to use some of the headroom in the Policy maximum in 2024 for outperformance and is fully committed to aligning shareholder and Company interests, and to maintaining an open and transparent dialogue with its shareholders on the pay of Executive Directors. In December 2023, the Committee consulted with its largest shareholders and welcomed their feedback and comments on the proposed approach for the 2024 bonus and for the PSP awards to be granted in 2024. Bonus We are proposing that the usual bonus award will remain as 175% of salary, in line with previous years, and targets will be set in the usual manner. However, we are also proposing to include an additional 10% of salary, which can only be achieved for outperformance of the maximum target on the operating prot element. This results in the eective maximum for the bonus for our Executive Directors ![]() 96 | Rightmove plc | Annual Report 2023 Governance | Directors’ Remuneration report continued becoming 185% of salary, but only for exceptional performance. This prot outperformance feature will also be appropriately cascaded down through our bonus population. The table below shows the proposed bonus measures for 2024. For 2024, we are proposing to introduce customer growth for our Commercial Real Estate business as a bonus measure (10% weighting) to better align with our new strategic priorities. Targets for the 2024 bonus are deemed to be commercially sensitive at present and, as such, will be disclosed retrospectively in the 2024 annual report. Performance measure Proposed measures for 2024 bonus Weighting of each element (% of award) Maximum (% of salary) Operating profit 60% (plus outperformance element) 105% of salary plus 10% of salary for outperformance Traffic share 15% 26.25% of salary Customer growth – Commercial Real Estate 10% 17.5% of salary Revenue growth – Mortgages business 10% 17.5% of salary ESG – E&S targets 5% 8.75% of salary Total 100% 185% of salary Performance Share Plan The PSP awards granted in 2023 were based 50% each on TSR and EPS. For 2024, we are proposing to reduce the EPS weighting to 25% and to introduce a revenue element, weighted at 25%. Revenue will be used as a key measure of the eectiveness of our management in implementing the new strategic growth agenda over the next three years. For the PSP awards due to be granted in 2024 (performance period of 2024-2026) we are proposing that the usual award of 175% of salary be granted in line with previous years. However, we are also proposing to include an additional 5% of salary, which can only be achieved for outperformance of the maximum target on the revenue element. This results in the eective maximum for the PSP for our Executive Directors becoming 180% of salary, but only for exceptional performance. This revenue outperformance feature will also be appropriately cascaded down through our PSP. Employee engagement in 2023 We have engaged with employees in relation to their pay and benets at Rightmove, including how it aligns with the wider Group pay policy. The views received by me from employees, at dedicated face-to-face meetings, were fed back to the Committee and indicated that, in line with our ‘Have your Say’ surveys, employees continue to enjoy working at Rightmove and that their rewards and benets are in line with expectations. The 4% Group pay increase and the increase in the level of Group pension contribution from 6% to 7% of salary (where employees contribute at least 4%) has also been well received (each with eect from 1 January 2024). It has also been announced that all employees will receive an additional two days of annual leave, with eect from 1 January 2024, taking the annual leave allowance from 25 to 27 days per year. A new volunteering initiative has also been introduced, whereby colleagues can take up to two days per year additional leave for volunteering for good causes. Rightmove therefore continues to have a unique culture of ‘we’re all in it together’, which has been further strengthened by the Group Leadership Team in 2023. Members of the Committee will be available at the AGM to answer any questions you have about how Rightmove’s Remuneration Policy continues to be applied. Lorna Tilbian Chair of the Remuneration Committee 29 February 2024 ![]() Rightmove plc | Annual Report 2023 | 97 STRATEGIC REPORT GOVERNANCE FINANCIAL STATEMENTS Governance | Remuneration at a glance 2023 Financial performance Pay and performance for 2023 The charts below show the actual remuneration for the current Chief Executive Ocer and the Chief Financial Ocer for 2023. The charts include data for salary, bonus and the LTIP (performance shares) granted in 2021, with a performance period ending on 31 December 2023. The charts exclude data for benets and pensions, details of which can be found in the single remuneration gure table. Revenue +10 % Direct returns to shareholders £ 201.7m Underlying Operating prot (1) +8 % Chief Executive Ocer – Johan Svanstrom 0 500 1000 1500 2000 2500 £000 £518 £906 £518 £717 £518 Minimum Actual Maximum Amounts shown in £’000 LTIPBonusSalary £000 Minimum Actual Maximum Amounts shown in £’000 LTIPBonusSalary 0 500 1000 1500 2000 2500 £450 £788 £788 £450 £624 £326 £450 Chief Financial Ocer – Alison Dolan Long-term incentive plan performance – 50% of maximum Underlying EPS (6) Total Shareholder Return Underlying basic earnings per share (EPS) increased by just over 95% over three years, resulting in 100% of the award vesting in respect of this element. This element of the 2021 PSP awards will lapse in full as relative three-year TSR performance was below the FTSE 350 index. Pence per share Source: Rightmove Source: Re�nitiv Datastream The graph shows underlying EPS (6) as at 31 December 2023 (25.2p), compared to as at 31 December in the previous four years. 10.0 15.0 20.0 25.0 30.0 12.8 25.2 23.8 2019 2020 20232021 2022 Underlying basic EPS (5) 20.3 Value £ Dec 2013 Dec 2015 Dec 2017 Dec 2019 Dec 2021 Dec 2023 Total shareholder return Rightmove FTSE 100 FTSE 350 Source: Re�nitiv Datastream Value £ Dec 2019 Dec 2020 Dec 2021 Dec 2022 Rightmove FTSE 100 FTSE 350 21.8 This graph shows the value by 31 December 2023, of £100 invested in Rightmove on the 31 December 2013, compared with the value of £100 invested in the FTSE 100 and the FTSE 350 indices on the same date. +68% +136% -67% Value £ Dec 2019 Rightmove FTSE 100 FTSE 350 Although lower than the FTSE 350 index over the performance period, and therefore the TSR element lapsed in full, Rightmove’s TSR has performed better than many of our sector peers over the same period. 40 60 80 100 120 140 Although lower than the FTSE 350 index over the performance period, and therefore the TSR element lapsed in full, Rightmove’s TSR has performed better than many of our sector peers over the same period. +7% +10% -17% 40 60 80 100 120 140 50 100 150 200 250 300 350 Underlying EPS Pence per share Source: Rightmove Source: Re�nitiv Datastream The graph shows underlying EPS (6) as at 31 December 2023 (25.2p), compared to as at 31 December in the previous four years. 10.0 15.0 20.0 25.0 30.0 12.8 25.2 23.8 2019 2020 20232021 2022 Underlying basic EPS (5) 20.3 Value £ Dec 2013 Dec 2015 Dec 2017 Dec 2019 Dec 2021 Dec 2023 Total shareholder return Rightmove FTSE 100 FTSE 350 Source: Re�nitiv Datastream Value £ Dec 2019 Dec 2020 Dec 2021 Dec 2022 Rightmove FTSE 100 FTSE 350 21.8 This graph shows the value by 31 December 2023, of £100 invested in Rightmove on the 31 December 2013, compared with the value of £100 invested in the FTSE 100 and the FTSE 350 indices on the same date. +68% +136% -67% Value £ Dec 2019 Rightmove FTSE 100 FTSE 350 Although lower than the FTSE 350 index over the performance period, and therefore the TSR element lapsed in full, Rightmove’s TSR has performed better than many of our sector peers over the same period. 40 60 80 100 120 140 Although lower than the FTSE 350 index over the performance period, and therefore the TSR element lapsed in full, Rightmove’s TSR has performed better than many of our sector peers over the same period. +7% +10% -17% 40 60 80 100 120 140 50 100 150 200 250 300 350 Total Shareholder Return Shareholder alignment Shareholding guidelines Proportion of variable awards received in shares 200% of salary for all Executive Directors 79% of performance-related pay for 2023 was awarded in Rightmove shares Annual bonus achievement – 79% of maximum Performance Target Threshold Actual Bonus % achieved Underlying operating prot (1) £250m £265m 50% Market share of trac relative to our nearest competitors (2) 76% 86% 15% Rental Services business (3) 170,000 references 186,068 references 5% Mortgages business (4) 13,000 Mortgages in Principle 19,611 9% Employee survey respondents who think ‘Rightmove is a great place to work’ (5) (underpinned by two additional ‘gateway’ metrics, ULEV car eet and mandatory training) 87% 88% 0% (1) Underlying operating profit is defined as operating profit before share-based payments charges (including the related National Insurance). (2) Time spent on Rightmove platforms, relative to our nearest competitors (Zoopla.co.uk and PrimeLocation.com). Comscore MMX® Desktop only + Comscore Mobile Metrix® Mobile Web & App, Total Audience, Custom-defined list of Rightmove Sites, RIGHTMOVE.CO.UK, ZOOPLA.CO.UK, PRIMELOCATION.COM. (3) Quantity of references delivered in the year. (4) Delivery of Mortgages in Principle’ during Q4 2023. (5) Based on employee respondents selecting ‘Yes’ in response to the question “is Rightmove a great place to work” in the annual employee survey. (6) Underlying basic earnings per share (EPS): is defined as underlying profit (profit for the year before share-based payments charges including the related National Insurance and appropriate tax adjustments), divided by the weighted average number of ordinary shares in issue for the period. ![]() 98 | Rightmove plc | Annual Report 2023 Governance | Directors’ Remuneration report continued Remuneration Policy In formulating the Remuneration Policy approved by shareholders in 2023 (2023 Policy), the Committee considered the following principles recommended in the Code: • Clarity – the Policy is designed to allow our remuneration arrangements to be structured in a way that clearly supports the nancial objectives and the strategic priorities of the Group. The Committee remains committed to reporting on Rightmove’s remuneration practices in a transparent, balanced and straightforward way. • Simplicity – the Policy consists of three main elements: xed pay (salary, benets and pension), an annual bonus award and a long-term incentive award. The annual bonus award is based on a combination of our nancial and operational KPIs. The vesting of 2023 LTIP awards is based on EPS growth and relative TSR performance. • Risk – the Policy is in line with Rightmove’s risk appetite. The Committee has the discretion to reduce variable pay outcomes where these are not considered to represent overall Group performance or the shareholder experience. Over half (60%) of bonus awards are deferred into shares, and vested shares under the LTIP must be retained for a further two years, ensuring that Executive Directors are motivated to deliver longer-term sustainable performance. • Predictability – the Committee considers the impact of various performance outcomes on incentive levels when determining overall executive pay levels. • Proportionality – a substantial portion of the package comprises performance-based reward, linked to the delivery of strong Group performance and the achievement of key strategic objectives. The Committee will use its discretion where required to ensure that performance outcomes are appropriate. • Alignment to culture – in determining executive remuneration policies and practices, the Committee considers the overall remuneration framework for our wider workforce as part of its review, including employee engagement and satisfaction levels, succession plans including diversity, to ensure executive remuneration is aligned to Rightmove’s culture. Remuneration Policy and 2024 implementation 2023 Policy Implementation in 2024 Base salaries Executive Directors’ salary increases will not normally exceed those of the wider workforce. Increases beyond wider workforce salary increases (in percentage of salary terms) will only typically be made where there is a change of incumbent, in responsibility, experience or a signicant increase in the scale of the role and/or size, value and/or scope of the Group. Executive Directors will receive a 4% pay rise in line with the wider workforce from 1 January 2024. Pension The approach to pension for Executive Directors is aligned to that of the wider workforce and will therefore reect any changes made to that group. A cash alternative to a pension contribution may be introduced where this is more tax ecient for the individual. 7% of salary pension contribution subject to the employee contributing a minimum of 4% of salary. Annual bonus Maximum headroom of 200% of salary, with 40% cash and 60% deferred into Company shares for two years. Maximum opportunity of 185% of salary. Deferral in line with the Policy. Performance measures based on underlying operating prot (60% plus outperformance element); share of trac, compared to all our competitors (15%); customer growth generated in Commercial Real Estate business (10%); revenue generated by the Mortgages business (10%); and a combined E&S based target (5%). Performance Share Plan Maximum headroom of 200% of salary. Two-year post-vesting holding period. Award level of 180% of salary. Performance measures based on EPS (25%); Relative TSR (50%) and Revenue Growth (25% plus outperformance element). Malus and Clawback Malus and clawback provisions apply to annual bonus, DSBP and PSP awards. Further detail is provided in the Policy. n/a Shareholding Guidelines 200% of base salary. Guideline applies to all Executive Directors. Post cessation shareholding requirements A two-year post-employment holding period applied to share awards granted from 2020, with 100% of the shareholding requirement (or actual holding, if lower) retained for the rst year, and 50% for the second year. n/a ![]() Rightmove plc | Annual Report 2023 | 99 STRATEGIC REPORT GOVERNANCE FINANCIAL STATEMENTS Remuneration report (unaudited) introduction The Directors’ Remuneration Policy was approved by shareholders at the 2023 AGM. The Annual Report, as set out below, has been prepared in accordance with the Companies Act 2006; the Large and Medium-sized Companies and Groups (Accounts and Reports) 2008 (as amended); and The Companies (Miscellaneous Reporting) Regulations 2018; and the 2018 UK Corporate Governance Code (the Code). The parts of the Report which have been audited have been highlighted. Key principles The Remuneration Committee’s key principles are that Executive remuneration should: • attract and retain Executive Directors of the quality required to run the Group successfully and be regarded as fair by both employees and shareholders; • be simple to explain, understand and administer; • be aligned to Company purpose and values and take into account the remuneration policies and practices of the wider employee population; • align the interests of the Executive Directors with the interests of shareholders and reect the dynamic, performance- driven culture of the Group; • support the strategy and promote long-term sustainable success and reward individuals for the overall success of the business, measuring and incentivising Executive Directors against key short and long-term goals; and • prevent Executive Directors from benetting from short-term successes, which may not be consistent with growing the overall value of the business, through the deferral of 60% of annual bonuses for a further two years after the performance targets have been achieved, the ve-year time horizon (three-year performance period and two-year holding period) under the PSP, and the post-employment shareholding requirements. Annual Report on Remuneration Please turn to page 94 for details of the Committee’s purpose and Terms of Reference. Membership The following independent Non-Executive Directors were members of the Committee during 2023: • Lorna Tilbian (Chair of the Committee) • Jacqueline de Rojas • Rakhi Goss-Custard (stepped down from the Committee and the Board at the AGM on 5 May 2023) • Amit Tiwari (appointed to the Committee on 5 May 2023) The Committee held six scheduled meetings in 2023 and attendance at meetings is shown in the Corporate Governance Report. The Committee meets as necessary, but normally at least ve times a year. The quorum for meetings of the Committee is two members and the Company Secretary acts as Secretary to the Committee. Only members of the Committee have the right to attend Committee meetings. The Committee Chair has invited the Chair of the Board to attend meetings except during discussions relating to his own remuneration. The Executive Directors are also invited to meetings when the Committee is considering their recommendations on the remuneration of the Group Leadership Team. No Executive Director is involved in deciding their own remuneration. ![]() 100 | Rightmove plc | Annual Report 2023 External advisors Deloitte LLP (Deloitte) is the Committee’s remuneration advisor. Deloitte is a founding member of the Remuneration Consultants Group and adheres to its code in relation to executive remuneration consulting. In 2023, the Company paid fees of £67,925 to Deloitte in respect of work and advice which was of material assistance to the Committee. The Committee keeps its relationship with external advisors under review and is satised that there are no conicts of interest. Aside from other remuneration-related support provided in their role as advisors, that was not considered to be of material assistance to the Committee (e.g. provision of accounting fair values for Rightmove share awards), Deloitte did not provide any other services to the Company during the year. What has the Committee done during the year? The Committee’s work in 2023 included: Pay and incentive plan reviews - annual review and approval of Executive Directors’ base salaries and benets; - annual review of Group pay; - review of 2023 business performance against relevant performance targets to determine annual bonus payments and vesting of long-term incentives; - review and approval of appropriate benchmarks and performance measures for the annual performance-related bonus, DSBP awards and 2024 PSP awards to ensure measures are aligned with strategy and that targets are achievable and appropriately stretching; - approval of share awards, granted in March 2023 under the DSBP and the PSP; - ongoing monitoring of remuneration for the Senior Leadership Team; - approval of our leadership arrangements relating to share awards for members of the Group Leadership team; and - Investor consultation. Governance and strategy - review of the 2023 AGM voting and feedback from institutional investors; - review and approval of the Directors’ Remuneration Report; - evaluation of the Committee’s performance during the year; and - review of the Committee’s terms of reference. Governance | Directors’ Remuneration report continued ![]() Rightmove plc | Annual Report 2023 | 101 STRATEGIC REPORT GOVERNANCE FINANCIAL STATEMENTS Annual Report on Remuneration Directors’ remuneration This section of the report sets out how the 2023 Policy was applied in 2023, along with changes in Directors’ share interests during 2023. Information that is audited is clearly indicated. Directors’ Single Figure Remuneration Tables (audited) The remuneration of the Directors of the Company during 2023 for time served as a Director is as follows: Fixed Pay Performance-related pay Salary/fee £ Benets (1) £ Pension (2) £ Fixed pay subtotal £ Annual bonus (3) £ Long-term incentives (4) £ Variable pay subtotal £ Total remuneration in 2023 £ Executive Directors Johan Svanstrom (5) 517,500 1,457 24,000 542,957 717,269 – 717,269 1,260,226 Peter Brooks-Johnson (6) 100,758 817 – 101,575 – 334,339 334,339 435,914 Alison Dolan 450,000 1,236 27,000 478,236 623,712 325,602 949,314 1,427,550 Non-Executive Directors (7) Andrew Fisher 275,000 – – 275,000 – – – 275,000 Jacqueline de Rojas 77,600 – – 77,600 – – – 77,600 Rakhi Goss-Custard (8) 22,844 – – 22,844 – – – 22,844 Kriti Sharma (9) 28,373 – – 28,373 – – – 28,373 Andrew Findlay 80,605 – – 80,605 – – – 80,605 Lorna Tilbian 80,605 – – 80,605 – – – 80,605 Amit Tiwari 65,000 – – 65,000 – – – 65,000 (1) Benefits in kind for the Executive Directors relate to private medical insurance and the medical cash plan. (2) Johan Svanstrom and Alison Dolan participated in the Rightmove pension scheme on the same terms as all employees. (3) The annual bonus amount relates to the accrued payment in respect of the full-year results for the year ended 31 December 2023 including the deferred element (60% of the annual bonus is deferred in shares with a two-year vesting period). (4) The value of the long-term incentives includes nil cost PSPs where vesting is calculated by taking the number of nil cost options expected to vest on 3 March 2024 (including dividend roll-up), which are subject to the three-year performance period, ending on 31 December 2023, multiplied by the average share price for the three months ending 31 December 2023 of £5.33. No amount of the PSP value disclosed in the single figure table above is attributable to share price appreciation. (5) Johan Svanstrom was appointed as an Executive Director on 20 February 2023. (6) Pay for the period to 6 March 2023. (7) The basic fee for all Non-Executive Directors (excluding the Chair) in 2023 was £65,000, Committee Chairs (excluding Nomination Committee) received an additional fee of £15,605, and the Senior Independent Director received an additional fee of £12,600. The Chair’s fee was £275,000. (8) Fee for the period to 5 May 2023. (9) Fee for the period from 25 July 2023. ![]() 102 | Rightmove plc | Annual Report 2023 Governance | Directors’ Remuneration report continued The remuneration of the Directors of the Company during 2022 (audited) was: Fixed Pay Performance-related pay Salary/fee £ Benets (1) £ Pension (2) £ Fixed pay subtotal £ Annual bonus (3) £ Long-term incentives (4) £ Variable pay subtotal £ Total remuneration in 2022 £ Executive Directors Peter Brooks-Johnson 531,196 2,106 – 533,302 661,872 220,564 879,814 1,415,738 Alison Dolan 405,717 1,297 24,343 431,357 505,525 121,491 625,458 1,058,373 Non-Executive Directors (5) Andrew Fisher 208,060 – – 208,060 – – – 208,060 Jacqueline de Rojas 67,516 – – 67,516 – – – 67,516 Rakhi Goss-Custard 57,217 – – 57,217 – – – 57,217 Andrew Findlay 72,821 – – 72,821 – – – 72,821 Lorna Tilbian 72,821 – – 72,821 – – – 72,821 Amit Tiwari 57,217 – – 57,217 – – – 57,217 (1) Benefits in kind for the Executive Directors relate to private medical insurance and the medical cash plan. (2) Alison Dolan participated in the Rightmove pension scheme on the same terms as all employees. (3) The annual bonus amount relates to the accrued payment in respect of the full-year results for the year ended 31 December 2021 including the deferred element (60% of the annual bonus is deferred in shares with a two-year vesting period). (4) The value of the long-term incentives has been restated for vested awards and includes: – nil cost PSPs where vesting is calculated by taking the number of nil cost options which vested on 17 September 2023 (including dividend roll-up), which are subject to the three-year performance period, ending on 31 December 2022, multiplied by the vesting date closing share price of £5.54. – 0% of the PSP value disclosed in the single figure table is attributable to share price appreciation. (5) The basic fee for all Non-Executive Directors (excluding the Chair) in 2022 was £57,217, Committee Chairs (excluding Nomination Committee) received an additional fee of £15,600, and the Senior Independent Director received an additional fee of £10,300. The Chair’s fee was £208,060. Dened contribution pension During 2023, the Group operated a stakeholder pension plan for employees under which Rightmove contributed 6% of base salary, subject to the employee contributing a minimum of 3% of base salary. Johan Svanstrom and Alison Dolan are members of the Group pension plan on the same basis as all employees. The Company does not contribute to any personal pension arrangements. External appointments With the approval of the Board in each case, Executive Directors may accept one external appointment as a Non-Executive Director of another listed or similar company and retain any fees received. Peter Brooks-Johnson was a Non-Executive Director of Adevinta ASA, the international online classieds operation, which is listed on the Oslo Børs. Peter received a director’s fee of 253,500 Norwegian Krone from Adevinta for the period 1 January 2023 to 6 March 2023 when he stepped down from the Board (2022: 994,500 Norwegian Krone). Alison Dolan was appointed as a Non-Executive Director of Pearson plc, a multinational publishing and education company, on 1 June 2023 and received a Director’s fee of £47,083 for the period from 1 June to 31 December 2023 (2022: nil). ![]() Rightmove plc | Annual Report 2023 | 103 STRATEGIC REPORT GOVERNANCE FINANCIAL STATEMENTS How was pay linked to performance in 2023? Annual bonus plan The annual bonus for the nancial year ended 31 December 2023 was in the form of a cash bonus of up to 70% of salary and a DSBP bonus of up to 105% of salary (i.e. 175% in total awarded under the 2023 Policy). The bonus, both cash and DSBP elements, was determined by a mixture of operating prot performance (60%) and key performance indicators (40%) relating to underlying drivers of long-term revenue growth. When comparing performance against the 2023 bonus targets set, the Committee determined that 79% of the maximum achievable cash and DSBP bonus should be paid to the Executive Directors in March 2024. Accordingly, a cash bonus of 55% of base salary (out of a maximum of 70%) will be paid to the executives and 83% of base salary (out of a maximum of 105%) will be granted to the Executive Directors under the DSBP, which will be deferred until March 2026. Details of the achievement of bonus targets are provided in the following table: Measure Target As a % of maximum bonus opportunity Actual performance achieved Resulting bonus % achieved Financial targets Underlying operating prot (1) 2023 underlying operating prot: • £250m: 10% payout • £268m: 100% payout 60% Underlying operating prot achieved: £264.6m 50% Strategic targets Trac market share (2) Rightmove’s trac market share, compared to all other property portals (measured as time on site by Comscore): • 76%: 25% payout • 81%: 100% payout 15% Rightmove’s trac market share compared to all other property portals in 2023 was 86% 15% Rental Services Delivery of tenant references: • 170,000 references: 25% payout • 220,000 references: 100% payout 10% The Rental Services business delivered 186,068 references in 2023 5% Mortgages business Delivery of Mortgages in Principle (MiP): • 13,000 MiPs: 25% • 20,000 MiPs : 100% 10% The Mortgage business delivered 19,611 MiPs in Q4 2023 9% Employee engagement (3) underpinned by two additional ‘gateway’ metrics, ULEV car eet and mandatory training Percentage of respondents to the employee survey who say ‘Rightmove is a great place to work’: 1. 87%: 25% payout 2. 95%: 100% payout 5% 88% of respondents agree ‘Rightmove is a great place to work’ 0% Total 100% 79% (1) Underlying operating profit is defined as operating profit before share-based payments charges (including the related National Insurance). (2) Time spent on Rightmove platforms, relative to our nearest competitors (Zoopla.co.uk and PrimeLocation.com). Comscore MMX® Desktop only + Comscore Mobile Metrix® Mobile Web & App, Total Audience, Custom-defined list of Rightmove Sites, RIGHTMOVE.CO.UK, ZOOPLA.CO.UK, PRIMELOCATION.COM. (3) Under the ESG metric, 88% of our employees agreed that Rightmove is a great place to work. Ordinarily, this would have resulted in some vesting under the ESG element of the bonus. However, we did not meet one of our ESG underpins around average hours per employee of mandatory training by year-end, largely as a result of the number of new joiners in the latter part of 2023. Therefore, there is no payout under the ESG element of the bonus. ![]() 104 | Rightmove plc | Annual Report 2023 Governance | Directors’ Remuneration report continued Long-term incentives vesting during the year The PSP awards granted to Peter Brooks-Johnson and Alison Dolan in March 2021 were subject to underlying EPS (1) (50% of the awards) and relative TSR (50% of the awards) performance conditions that related to the three-year period ended 31 December 2023. The vesting schedule for the relative TSR element of the 2021 PSP awards is set out below: Relative TSR condition % of award vesting (maximum 50%) Less than the Index 0% Equal to the Index 12.5% 25% higher than the Index 50% Intermediate performance Straight-line vesting At the end of the performance period, Rightmove’s TSR was -8% compared to 29% for the FTSE 350 Index. This performance is below the Index and therefore this part of the PSP award will lapse in full. Rightmove’s underlying EPS growth is measured over a period of three nancial years (2021 to 2023); the vesting schedule is set out below: Underlying EPS (1) growth from 2021 to 2023 % of award vesting (maximum 50%) Less than 87% 0% 87% 12.5% 95% 50% Between 87% and 95% Straight-line vesting (1) Underlying basic earnings per share is defined as underlying profit (profit for the year before share-based payments charges including the related National Insurance and appropriate tax adjustments), divided by the weighted average number of ordinary shares in issue for the period. At the end of the performance period, underlying EPS was 25.2p which is 95% higher than underlying EPS of 12.9p for the base year 2020. Therefore, 50% of the award will vest on 3 March 2024 and will be exercisable following a two-year holding period, on 3 March 2026. Share awards granted during the year (audited) On 10 March 2023 Johan Svanstrom and Alison Dolan were awarded shares under the PSP, which vest in March 2026 and are exercisable from March 2028. The awards are subject to a mixture of EPS (50% of the awards) and TSR relative to the FTSE 350 Index (50% of the awards). Executive Director Basis of grant Number of shares Face value of award (1) Johan Svanstrom 175% of base salary 186,170 £1,050,000 Alison Dolan 175% of base salary 139,628 £787,500 (1) Based on the average mid-market share price for the three consecutive days prior to grant, taken from the Daily Official List, of £5.64. The vesting schedule for the relative TSR element of Executive Directors’ 2023 PSP awards is set out below. It is consistent with the TSR condition used for previous grants under the share option plan and will be assessed against the FTSE 350 Index. Performance will be measured over three nancial years. Relative TSR condition % of award vesting (maximum 50%) Less than the Index 0% Equal to the Index 12.5% 25% higher than the Index 50% Intermediate performance Straight-line vesting Rightmove’s EPS growth will be measured over a period of three nancial years (2023-2025). The EPS gure used will be equivalent to the Group’s underlying EPS. (1) The following vesting schedule will apply for Executive Directors’ awards granted in 2023: Underlying EPS (1) growth from 2023 to 2025 % of award vesting (maximum 50%) Less than 24% 0% 24% 12.5% 31% 50% Between 24% and 31% Straight-line vesting (1) Underlying basic earnings per share is defined as underlying profit (profit for the year before share-based payments charges, including the related National Insurance and appropriate tax adjustments), divided by the weighted average number of ordinary shares in issue for the period. The benchmark underlying EPS for the nancial year 2022 from which these targets will be measured is 23.8p. ![]() Rightmove plc | Annual Report 2023 | 105 STRATEGIC REPORT GOVERNANCE FINANCIAL STATEMENTS Share-based incentives held by the Executive Directors and not exercised as at 31 December 2023 (audited) Date granted Share–based incentives held 1 January 2023 Granted/dividend roll–up Exercise price Exercised Average share price at date of exercise Lapsed Share–based incentives held at 31 December 2023 Vesting date Expiry date Executive Directors Johan Svanstrom 10/03/2023 (PSP) – 186,170 (1) £0.00 – – – 186,170 10/03/2026 10/03/2030 01/10/2023 (Sharesave) – 4,140 (2) £4.48 – – – 4,140 01/11/2026 30/04/2027 21/11/2023 (SIP) – 600 £0.00 – – – 600 21/12/2026 – Total – 190,910 – – – – 190,910 Date granted Share–based incentives held 1 January 2023 Granted/dividend roll–up Exercise price Exercised Average share price at date of exercise Lapsed (3) Share–based incentives held at 6 March 2023 Vesting date Expiry date Peter Brooks–Johnson (4) 06/03/2019 (PSP) 52,436 – £0.00 – – – 52,436 06/03/2022 05/03/2024 17/09/2020 (PSP) 143,034 – £0.00 – – – 143,034 17/09/2023 17/09/2027 30/09/2020 (Sharesave) 1,754 – £5.13 – – – 1,754 01/11/2023 30/04/2024 03/03/2021 (PSP) 153,062 – £0.00 – – – 153,062 03/03/2024 03/03/2028 03/03/2021 (DSBP) 16,989 – £0.00 – – – 16,989 03/03/2023 03/03/2024 02/03/2022 (PSP) 136,689 – £0.00 – – – 136,689 02/03/2025 03/03/2029 02/03/2022 (DSBP) 68,891 – £0.00 – – – 68,891 02/03/2024 02/03/2025 Total 572,855 – – – – 572,855 ![]() 106 | Rightmove plc | Annual Report 2023 Governance | Directors’ Remuneration report continued Share-based incentives held by the Executive Directors and not exercised as at 31 December 2023 (audited) continued Date granted Share–based incentives held 1 January 2023 Granted/dividend roll–up Exercise price Exercised Average share price at date of exercise Lapsed Share–based incentives held at 31 December 2023 Vesting date Expiry date Alison Dolan 17/09/2020 (PSP) 84,970 601 £0.00 – – 63,897 21,674 17/09/2023 17/09/2027 30/09/2020 (Sharesave) 3,508 – £5.13 – – – 3,508 01/11/2023 30/04/2024 03/03/2021 (PSP) 116,906 – £0.00 – – – 116,906 03/03/2024 03/03/2028 03/03/2021 (DSBP) 4,192 (5) – £0.00 4,192 £5.59 – – 03/03/2023 03/03/2024 02/03/2022 (PSP) 104,400 – £0.00 – – – 104,400 02/03/2025 02/03/2029 02/03/2022 (DSBP) 52,618 – £0.00 – – – 52,618 02/03/2024 02/03/2025 21/12/2022 (SIP) 500 – £0.00 – – – 500 21/12/2025 – 10/03/2023 (PSP) – 139,628 (1) £0.00 – – – 139,628 10/03/2026 10/03/2030 10/03/2023 (DSBP) – 53,779 (6) £0.00 – – – 53,779 10/03/2025 10/03/2026 21/11/2023 (SIP) – 600 £0.00 – – – 600 21/12/2026 – Total 367,094 194,608 – 4,192 – 63,897 493,613 (1) On 10 March 2023 the Executive Directors were awarded nil cost performance shares under the PSP, which vest in March 2026 and are exercisable from March 2028. The average mid-market share price for the three consecutive preceding days, used to calculate the number of shares awarded, was £5.64. (2) On 29 September 2023, Johan Svanstrom was granted a Sharesave option over 4,140 shares at an exercise price of £4.48. The options will be exercisable from 1 November 2026. (3) As a result of leaving Rightmove in May 2023, Peter Brooks-Johnson forfeited a pro-rated number of options on the PSP schemes as follows: 2021 PSP 33,019 options (resulting in retained options of 120,043), 2022 PSP 75,148 options (resulting in retained options of 61,541). (4) The table relating to Peter Brooks-Johnson is as at 6 March 2023, the date that Peter stepped down from the Board. (5) The deferred shares granted under the DSBP on 3 March 2021 vested in March 2023. Alison Dolan exercised the nil cost option over 4,192 shares on 6 December 2023 and sold 2,012 shares at an average market price of £5.59 to cover the resulting tax liability and retained the balance of 2,180 shares. (6) On 10 March 2023 Alison Dolan was awarded nil cost deferred shares under the DSBP, which vest in March 2025. The average mid-market price for the three consecutive preceding days, used to calculate the number of shares awarded, was £5.64. Dilution (audited) All existing Executive share-based incentives can be satised from shares held in the Rightmove Employees’ Share Trust (EBT) and shares held in treasury. It is intended that the 2024 share-based incentive awards will also be settled from shares currently held in the EBT or from shares held in treasury without any requirement to issue further shares. During 2023, Treasury shares were used to satisfy DSBP and PSP exercises of 476,025 shares, representing 0.06% of the issued share capital (less Treasury shares) as at 31 December 2023. ![]() Rightmove plc | Annual Report 2023 | 107 STRATEGIC REPORT GOVERNANCE FINANCIAL STATEMENTS Directors’ interests in shares (audited) The benecial and family interests of each person who served as a Director during 2023 in the share capital of the Company were as follows: Interests in ordinary shares of 0.1p Interests in share-based incentives At 31 December 2023 (1) At 1 January 2023 PSP & DSBP awards (unvested) PSP & DSBP Awards (vested but unexercised) SAYE awards (vested but unexercised) Options (unvested) Share Incentive Plan Executive Directors Peter Brooks-Johnson (1) 2,017,302 2,017,302 501,676 69,425 – 1,754 – Johan Svanstrom 10,000 – 186,170 – – 4,140 600 Alison Dolan 2,180 – 467,331 21,674 3,508 1,100 Non–Executive Directors Andrew Fisher 20,000 20,000 – – – – Jacqueline de Rojas 1,880 1,880 – – – – Rakhi Goss-Custard (2) 5,440 5,440 – – – – Andrew Findlay – – – – – – Lorna Tilbian – – – – – – Kriti Sharma – – – – – – Amit Tiwari – – – – – – Total 2,056,802 2,044,622 1,155,177 91,099 3,508 5,894 1,700 (1) Peter Brooks-Johnson’s interest in shares is shown as 6 March 2023 being the date that he stepped down from the Board. (2) Rakhi Goss-Custard’s interest in shares is shown as at 5 May 2023 being the date she stepped down from the Board. - The Company’s shares in issue (including 11,709,197 shares held in treasury) as at 31 December 2023 was 813,449,619 ordinary shares of 0.1p each (2022: 837,401,085 ordinary shares of 0.1p each). - The closing share price of the Company was £5.76 as at 31 December 2023. The lowest and highest share prices during the year were £4.63 and £6.15 respectively. - The Executive Directors are regarded as being interested, for the purposes of the Act, in 1,029,919 ordinary shares of 0.1p each (2022: 1,375,963 ordinary shares of 0.1p each) in the Company held by the EBT at 31 December 2023 as they are, together with other employees, potential beneciaries of the EBT. - The Directors’ benecial holdings represented 0.26% of the Company’s shares in issue as at 31 December 2023 (2022: 0.24%), excluding shares held in treasury. - There have been no changes to the share interests of continuing Directors between the year-end and the date of this report. ![]() 108 | Rightmove plc | Annual Report 2023 Share ownership guidelines (audited) Executive Director share ownership guidelines are set out in the Remuneration Policy on the Company’s website. The interests of the Executive Directors in oce at 31 December 2023 in the share capital of the Company as a percentage of base salary were as follows: Base salary 1 January 2024 Number of shares held benecially at 31 December 2023 Number of vested, unexercised share awards Value of shares at 31 December 2023 (1) Value of shares as a % of base salary Guideline met (200% of salary) Executive Directors Peter Brooks-Johnson (2) £531,196 2,017,302 69,425 £11,831,376 2227% Yes Johan Svanstrom £624,000 10,000 - £59,459 10% No (3) Alison Dolan £468,000 2,180 25,182 £874,618 187% No (3) (1) Based on the closing share price on 31 December 2023: £5.76 per share; multiplied by the number of beneficially owned shares plus vested share awards and shares under awards no longer subject to performance on a net of tax basis. (2) Peter Brooks-Johnson’s share ownership and salary is shown as 6 March 2023 being the date that he stepped down from the Board. (3) Executive Directors are required to retain at least half of any share awards vesting or exercised (after selling sufficient shares to meet the exercise price and to pay any tax liabilities due) until they have met the shareholding guideline. Payments to past Directors and payments for loss of oce There were no payments to past Directors for loss of oce during 2023. Details of outstanding share awards for Peter Brooks-Johnson, our former Chief Executive ocer who stepped down from the Board on 6 March 2023 (and left the Company on 9 May 2023) are detailed below. Outstanding awards will vest in line with performance conditions for the PSP and the normal vesting dates for DSBP and PSP awards. Rightmove Performance Share Plan (PSP) Unvested PSP awards were pro-rated for time elapsed from the date of grant to 9 May 2023 and vest on the original vesting dates. The 2019 PSP award, which was prorated for 25% performance, vested in 2022 and was exercised at a market value of £5.75. The 2020 PSP award, which was prorated for 28.4% performance, vested in September 2023 and was exercised at a market value of £5.82. Details of all awards are set out in the table below. Award Date Performance Period Normal Vesting Date Award (number of shares) Pro-rated award (number of shares) 6 March 2019 1 January 2019 to 31 December 2021 6 March 2022 204,746 52,436 (1) 17 September 2020 1 January 2020 to 31 December 2022 17 September 2023 (2) 143,034 36,169 (2) 3 March 2021 1 January 2021 to 31 December 2023 3 March 2024 153,062 120,043 2 March 2022 1 January 2022 to 31 December 2024 2 March 2025 136,689 61,541 All awards are subject to EPS and TSR performance conditions on vesting before dividend roll-up is applied. (1) Pro-rated by 25% for performance including 1,250 shares for dividend roll up and exercised at a market value of £5.75. (2) Pro-rated for time served and by 24.8% for performance conditions on vesting before dividend roll up was applied. Exercised on 10 October 2023 at a market value of £5.82. Peter sold sufficient shares for the purposes of covering tax and NI liabilities and has retained the residual shares, as permitted under the Plan Rules. At the time of exercise, Peter retained a shareholding which significantly exceeded the post-employment shareholding guidelines. Governance | Directors’ Remuneration report continued ![]() Rightmove plc | Annual Report 2023 | 109 STRATEGIC REPORT GOVERNANCE FINANCIAL STATEMENTS Rightmove Deferred Share Bonus Plan (DSBP) DSBP awards granted in respect of prior years’ performance will vest or have vested in full on the original vesting dates. Award Date Performance Period Normal Vesting Date Award (number of shares) 3 March 2021 (1) 1 January 2020 to 31 December 2020 3 March 2023 16,989 2 March 2022 1 January 2021 to 31 December 2021 2 March 2024 68,891 10 March 2023 1 January 2022 to 31 December 2022 10 March 2025 70,412 (1) The deferred shares granted under the DSBP on 3 March 2021 vested in March 2023. Peter Brooks-Johnson exercised the nil cost option over 16,989 shares on 8 October 2023 and sold all the shares at an average market price of £5.75 per share. Total shareholder return (TSR) The graph below compares the TSR of Rightmove’s shares against the FTSE 100 Index and the FTSE 350 Index for the ten-year period from 1 January 2013 to 31 December 2023. TSR is the product of movements in the share price plus dividends reinvested on the ex-dividend date. It illustrates the value of £100 invested in Rightmove’s shares and in the FTSE 100 Index and the FTSE 350 Index over that period. As required by the Act, the Company’s TSR performance is shown against a recognised broad-based share index; the FTSE 100 and the FTSE 350 indices are both considered appropriate comparators. TSR Graph – ten years Dec 18 Dec 19 Dec 20 Dec 21 +23% +26% +88% Source: Thomson Reuters Source: Re�nitiv Datastream Rightmove FTSE 100 FTSE 350 Rightmove FTSE 100 FTSE 350 This graph shows the value, by 31 December 2021, of £100 invested in Rightmove on 31 December 2018, compared with the value of £100 invested in the FTSE 100 and the FTSE 350 Indices on a daily basis. This graph shows the value, by 31 December 2023, of £100 invested in Rightmove on 31 December 2013, compared with the value of £100 invested in the FTSE 100 and the FTSE 350 Indices on a daily basis. Dec 15 Dec 14 Dec 13 Dec 16 Dec 17 Dec 18 Dec 21 Dec 22 Dec 23 Dec 20 Dec 19 +68% +136% 60 80 100 120 140 160 180 200 0 50 100 150 200 250 300 350 +67% ![]() 110 | Rightmove plc | Annual Report 2023 Total remuneration for the Chief Executive Ocer The table below shows the total remuneration gure for the Chief Executive Ocer over a ten-year performance period. The total remuneration gure includes the annual bonus and long-term incentive awards that vested based on performance in those years. Year Executive Total single gure £ (3) Annual bonus outturn (% of maximum) Long–term incentive outturn (% of maximum) 2023 Johan Svanstrom (1) Peter Brooks-Johnson (1) 1,234,769 435,097 79% 79% – 50% 2022 Peter Brooks-Johnson 1,399,774 71% 26% 2021 Peter Brooks-Johnson 1,673,673 84% 25% 2020 Peter Brooks-Johnson 960,827 18.5% 25% 2019 Peter Brooks-Johnson 2,155,759 65% 85% 2018 Peter Brooks-Johnson 1,490,178 78% 67% 2017 Peter Brooks-Johnson (2) Nick McKittrick (1) 504,557 1,223,443 60% n/a 100% 100% 2016 Nick McKittrick 2,126,923 92% 100% 2015 Nick McKittrick 2,300,349 100% 100% 2014 Nick McKittrick 1,599,610 70% 92% (1) Peter Brooks-Johnson was Chief Executive Officer from 9 May 2017 and stepped down from the Board on 6 March 2023 and received his salary and benefits to the end of his notice period on 9 May 2023. Johan Svanstrom was appointed as an Executive Director on 20 February 2023 and as Chief Executive Officer on 6 March 2023. (2) Nick McKittrick was Chief Executive Officer and a Director until 9 May 2017 and retired from Rightmove on 30 June 2017. Peter Brooks-Johnson was appointed Chief Executive Officer on 9 May 2017. (3) The total remuneration figure provided is as disclosed in the relevant year’s DRR. Governance | Directors’ Remuneration report continued ![]() Rightmove plc | Annual Report 2023 | 111 STRATEGIC REPORT GOVERNANCE FINANCIAL STATEMENTS Percentage change in the remuneration of Directors compared with employees The table below sets out the percentage change in the remuneration of all the Directors of the Company compared with the average of all employees between 2022 and 2023, based on the gures shown in the single gure tables above. % increase/(decrease) in remuneration of the Directors compared with the average of all employees between 2022 and 2023 between 2021 and 2022 between 2020 and 2021 Salary or fees Benets Bonus Salary or fees (6) Benets Bonus Salary or fees (6) Benets Bonus Johan Svanstrom (1) 100.0% 100.0% 100.0% Peter Brooks-Johnson (2) (81.0%) (61.2%) (100%) 3.0% (3.0%) (12.7%) 8.0% (2.4%) 358.6% Alison Dolan 10.9% 10.1% 23.4% 3.0% 100% (12.7%) 217.4% 1,112% 1,319.5% Andrew Fisher (3) 32.2% 3.0% 8.0% Jacqueline de Rojas 14.9% 3.0% 16.9% Andrew Findlay (3) 10.7% 3.0% 8.0% Rakhi Goss-Custard (4) (60.1%) 3.0% 8.0% Lorna Tilbian (3) 10.7% 3.0% 8.0% Amit Tiwari (3) 13.6% 3.0% 8.0% Kriti Sharma (5) 100% Employees 22.8% 3.9% 0.3% 2.4% 1.9% 34.4% 6.2% 7.8% (4.3%) (1) Johan Svanstrom was appointed to the Board on 6 March 2023 and has no prior year earnings from Rightmove. (2) Peter Brooks-Johnson stepped down from the Board on 6 March and received his salary and benefits to the end of his notice period on 9 May 2023. (3) The basic NED fee in 2023 was increased to £65,000 with effect from 1 January 2023; the Committee Chair fee remained at £15,605 and the SID fee increased to £12,600. (2022: Basic NED fee £57,217, Committee Chair fee £15,605, SID fee £10,300). (4) Rakhi Goss-Custard left the Board on 5 May 2023. (5) Kriti Sharma joined the Board on 25 July 2023 and has no prior year earnings from Rightmove. (6) All Directors volunteered a 20% reduction in their salaries and fees for the four months from April to July 2020. Pay ratio information in relation to the total remuneration of the Chief Executive Ocer The table below shows the total remuneration of our Chief Executive Ocer compared to the equivalent remuneration for our employees, who are all based in the UK. We have calculated the full-time equivalent remuneration for all Group employees (as at 31 December 2023) using the Government’s preferred Option A and identied the total remuneration gure at the 25 th , 50 th and 75 th percentile. We then compared each percentile gure against our CEO’s single gure for total remuneration to determine the pay ratios set out below. The Company believes the median pay ratio is consistent with the pay, reward and progression policies for the Company’s UK employees taken as a whole. The pay ratio has increased between 2022 and 2023 as more of the CEO’s pay is performance linked and variable incentives paid out at higher levels in 2023 than 2022. All employees Year Method CEO’s total remuneration (1) 25 th percentile Median 75 th percentile 25 th percentile pay ratio Median pay ratio 75 th percentile pay ratio 2023 Option A 1,669,866 (2) 33,060 59,481 85,130 51 28 20 2022 Option A 1,399,774 30,844 56,394 81,168 46 24 17 2021 Option A 1,673,673 26,730 49,386 72,203 63 34 23 2020 Option A 960,827 29,854 51,155 73,266 32 19 13 (1) The CEO’s total remuneration comprises salary, benets, bonus and the value of long-term incentives, including PSP awards. The total remuneration gure provided is as disclosed in the relevant year’s DRR. (2) For 2023, the salary component of total pay and benets was £28,000 at the 25 th percentile, £45,879 at median, and £73,500 at the 75 th percentile. ![]() 112 | Rightmove plc | Annual Report 2023 Relative importance of the spend on pay The table below shows the total pay for all Rightmove’s employees compared to other key nancial indicators. Additional information on the number of employees, total revenue and operating prot has been provided for context. Year ended 31 December 2023 Year ended 31 December 2022 % change Employee costs (refer Note 6) £54,544,000 £45,474,000 20% Dividends paid to shareholders (refer Note 11) £71,651,553 £67,679,188 6% Purchase of own shares (refer Note 21) 130,000,131 £129,980,976 0% Income tax (refer Note 9) £60,617,151 £45,601,000 33% Average number of employees (refer Note 6) (1) 727 647 12% Revenue £364,316,000 £332,622,000 10% Operating prot £258,033,000 £241,343,000 7% (1) The average number of employees includes Executive Directors and Group employees. Governance | Directors’ Remuneration report continued Application of Policy for the year ending 31 December 2024 Salaries The Executive Directors’ salaries for the 2023 and 2024 nancial year are set out in the table below: Salary 1 January 2024 Salary 31 December 2023 Change Executive Directors Johan Svanstrom £624,000 £600,000\* 4% Alison Dolan £468,000 £450,000 4% \*salary on appointment Pension and other benets The Group operates a stakeholder pension plan for all employees (including Executive Directors under the same terms) under which Rightmove contributes 7% of base salary, subject to the employee contributing a minimum of 4% of base salary. The Executive Directors participated in the pension plan during the year. The Company did not contribute to any personal pension arrangements. The Executive Directors are enrolled on the same terms as all employees in the Group’s private medical insurance scheme, the medical cash plan and receive life assurance cover equal to four times base salary. Annual bonus The usual bonus award will remain as 175% of salary for the bonus in line with previous years, and targets will be set in the usual manner. There will be an additional 10% of salary, which can only be achieved for outperformance of the maximum target on the operating prot element. This will result in the eective maximum for the bonus for our Executive Directors becoming 185% of salary, but only for exceptional performance. This prot outperformance feature will also be appropriately cascaded down through the bonus population. Awards will be subject to deferral (40% cash and 60% shares). The performance measures for 2024 have been adjusted to reect Rightmove’s ambitious new business strategy. The Committee will continue to use underlying operating prot (1) as an appropriate measure for the 2024 bonus awards. Trac market share will also continue to be retained. Reecting our recently agreed strategic priorities, Commercial Real Estate and Mortgages are two key business areas that will be introduced to the performance measures to align Executives with the new strategy. ![]() Rightmove plc | Annual Report 2023 | 113 STRATEGIC REPORT GOVERNANCE FINANCIAL STATEMENTS The performance measures and weightings for the 2024 nancial year are as follows: Measure As a % of maximum bonus opportunity Maximum (% of salary) Financial target Underlying operating prot (1) 60% 105% of salary plus 10% of salary for outperformance Strategic targets Trac market share (2) 15% 26.25% of salary Commercial Real Estate (3) 10% 17.5% of salary Mortgages Revenue (4) 10% 17.5% of salary Combined E&S (5) 5% 8.75% Total 100% 185% (1) Underlying operating profit is defined as operating profit before share-based payments charges (including the related National Insurance). (2) Time spent on Rightmove platforms, relative to our nearest competitors (Zoopla. co.uk and PrimeLocation.com). Comscore MMX® Desktop only + Comscore Mobile Metrix® Mobile Web & App, Total Audience, Custom-defined list of Rightmove Sites, RIGHTMOVE.CO.UK, ZOOPLA.CO.UK, PRIMELOCATION.COM (3) Commercial Real Estate customer growth. (4) Mortgages revenue growth. (5) E&S: employee engagement of at least 80% and increased engagement with green site content. The specic nancial targets for the 2024 nancial year are commercially sensitive. However, retrospective disclosure of the actual targets and performance against them will be provided as usual in the 2024 Remuneration Report, to the extent that they do not remain commercially sensitive at that time. Long-term incentives Awards to Executive Directors under the PSP in 2024 will be consistent with the 2023 Remuneration Policy, which increased the maximum opportunity to 200% to provide suitable exibility in an increasingly competitive environment. As outlined in the Remuneration Committee Chair’s letter, an investor consultation has been undertaken and awards for 2024 will have a maximum bonus opportunity of 180% of base salary. The PSP awards granted in 2023 were based 50% each on TSR and EPS. For the PSP awards due to be granted in 2024 (performance period of 2024-2026), we are proposing to reduce the EPS weighting to 25% and to introduce a revenue element, weighted at 25%. Revenue will be used as a key measure of the eectiveness of our management in implementing the new strategic growth agenda over the next three years. The usual award of 175% of salary will be granted in line with previous years and will include an additional 5% of salary, which can only be achieved for outperformance of the maximum target on the revenue element. This results in the eective maximum for the PSP for our Executive Directors becoming 180% of salary, but only for exceptional performance. The performance measures, weightings and eective maximums applied to award levels for the 2024 nancial year are as follows: Performance measure Weighting of each element (% of award) Eective maximum applied to award level of 175% of salary TSR element 50% 87.5% of salary EPS element 25% 43.75% of salary Revenue element 25% 43.75% of salary plus 5% of salary for outperformance (Growth of £122.5m) Total 100% 180% of salary (includes 5% overperformance) The awards will continue to be subject to a two-year holding period. The 2024 targets are as follows: EPS performance condition The Group’s EPS growth will be measured over the period of three nancial years (2024 to 2026). The EPS gure used will be equivalent to the Group’s underlying EPS (1) . With a view to ensuring appropriately stretching but achievable targets are set in light of market expectations for the Group, the following range of targets will apply to the 2024 awards: Underlying EPS growth from 2024 to 2026 (2) % of award vesting (maximum 25%) Less than 32% 0% 32% 6.25% 41% 25% Between 32% and 41% Straight-line vesting (1) Underlying basic earnings per share is defined as underlying profit (profit for the year before share-based payments charges, including the related National Insurance and appropriate tax adjustments), divided by the weighted average number of ordinary shares in issue for the period. (2) The benchmark underlying EPS for the financial year 2023 from which these targets will be measured is 23.8p. ![]() 114 | Rightmove plc | Annual Report 2023 The targets that are intended to operate for the 2024 PSP awards are considered to be demanding in light of the current trading environment, the Group’s starting position, internal nancial planning, and external market expectations for future growth. The Committee is satised that the range of targets remain appropriately demanding, and no less challenging than the range of targets set for prior year awards. Relative TSR performance condition The vesting schedule for the relative TSR element of Executive Directors’ 2024 PSP awards is set out below. Relative TSR will be assessed against the FTSE 350 Index, reecting the Company’s size in terms of market capitalisation. Performance will be measured over three nancial years. TSR performance of the Company relative to the FTSE 350 Index (1) % of award vesting (maximum 50%) Less than the Index 0% Equal to the Index 12.5% 25% higher than the Index 50% Intermediate performance Straight-line vesting (1) If the FTSE 350 Index’s TSR was 50% over the three-year performance period, then the Company’s TSR would have to be at least 75% for all 50% of the PSP shares to vest. Revenue Growth For 2024, revenue growth will be used as a key measure of the eectiveness of our management in implementing the new strategic growth agenda over the next three years. Revenue growth from 2024 to 2026 % of award vesting (maximum 25%) (1) Less than £110.9m 0% £116.7m 25% Between £110.9m and £116.7m Straight-line vesting (1) An overachievement is obtainable if revenue growth exceeds £122.5m. In the event of this over performance, maximum payout would not exceed 180% of salary. Chair and Non–Executive Directors’ fees The Board reviewed Non-Executive Directors’ fees and agreed that the fees for the Chair and Non-Executive Directors should increase by 4%, in line with the wider workforce. It was also agreed that fees for the Audit and Remuneration Committee Chairs and for the Senior Independent Director would be increased to reect time commitments and market practice as shown in the table below. Role 2023 Fees £ 2024 Fees £ Chair 275,000 286,000 Non-Executive Director (basic fee) 65,000 67,600 Committee Chair (excluding the Nomination Committee) 15,605 17,500 Senior Independent Director 12,600 15,000 Details of the fees paid to Directors in 2023 can be found earlier in this report. Governance | Directors’ Remuneration report continued ![]() Rightmove plc | Annual Report 2023 | 115 STRATEGIC REPORT GOVERNANCE FINANCIAL STATEMENTS Shareholder voting on the Remuneration Policy and Annual Report At the AGM on 5 May 2023, shareholders again voted overwhelmingly in favour of the Directors’ Remuneration Report, demonstrating a strong level of shareholder support for Rightmove’s management and their remuneration. The table below shows full details of the voting outcomes for the Directors’ Remuneration Report and the Remuneration Policy at the 2023 AGM. Votes for % Votes for Votes against % Votes against Votes withheld (1) Directors’ Remuneration Report 575,159,506 96.17 22,894,383 3.83 82,373 Remuneration Policy (2023) 548,568,121 91.73 49,465,976 8.27 102,165 (1) A vote withheld is not a vote in law and is not counted in the calculation of the proportion of votes cast ‘For’ and ‘Against’ a resolution. In line with the Company’s commitment to ongoing dialogue with its shareholders, the Committee has corresponded with major shareholders to invite their feedback on the 2024 remuneration proposals. Lorna Tilbian Chair, Remuneration Committee 29 February 2024 ![]() 116 | Rightmove plc | Annual Report 2023 Directors’ report The Directors submit their report together with the audited nancial statements for the Company (Number: 06426485) and its subsidiary companies (the Group) for the year ended 31 December 2023. The Directors’ Report includes these pages, the sections of the Annual Report referred to in the Corporate Governance statement and other information below which are incorporated into the Directors’ Report by reference. The Board has included certain disclosures in the Strategic Report in accordance with section 414C(11) of the Companies Act 2006 (the Act). Corporate governance statement The Disclosure Guidance and Transparency Rules (DTR) require certain information to be included in a corporate governance statement in the Directors’ Report. Information that fulls these requirements can be found in the Corporate Governance Report and is incorporated into the Directors’ Report by reference. Strategic report The Strategic Report can be found on pages 2 to 65. The Act requires this Annual Report to present a fair, balanced and understandable view of Rightmove’s business during the year ended 31 December 2023 and of the position of the Group at the end of the nancial period, together with a description of the principal risks and uncertainties facing the business. For the purposes of compliance with DTR 4.1 the required content of the management report can be found in the Strategic Report and this Directors’ Report, including the sections of the Annual Report incorporated by reference. Directors’ duties A statement of how the Directors have had regard to the need to foster the Company’s business relationships with suppliers, customers and others, and the eect of that regard, including on principal decisions taken by the Company, can be found in our Section 172 Statement. Directors The Directors of the Company as at the date of this report are Andrew Fisher, Alison Dolan, Jacqueline de Rojas, Andrew Findlay, Kriti Sharma, Johan Svanstrom, Lorna Tilbian and Amit Tiwari. Biographies of each Director can be found in the Corporate Governance Report. Share capital and Shareholder Voting Rights The shares in issue, including 11,709,197 shares of 0.1p held in treasury (2022: 12,185,222 shares) at the year-end amounted to 813,449,619 shares of 0.1p (2022: 837,401,085 shares), with a nominal value of £813,449 (2022: £837,401). Governance | Directors’ report The rights and obligations attached to each 0.1p ordinary share are as set out in the Company’s Articles of Association. The holders of each ordinary share in the Company are entitled to receive dividends as declared from time to time and are entitled to one vote per share at general meetings of the Company. Other than the usual regulations applicable for UK listed companies, there are no restrictions on the transfer of the Company’s shares. Results and dividends The Group reported operating prot before tax for the year of £258.0m (2022: £241.3m). The Directors are recommending a nal dividend for the year of 5.7 pence per share (2022: 5.2p) amounting to £45.3m (2022: £42.9m). The interim dividend for 2023 was 3.6p per share (2022: 3.3p) bringing the total dividend for the year to 9.3p per share (2022: 8.5p). Subject to shareholder approval at the Annual General Meeting (AGM) on 10 May 2024, the nal dividend will be paid on 24 May 2024 to shareholders on the register of members at the close of business on 26 April 2024. Share buyback The Company’s share buyback programme continued during 2023 and of the 10% authority granted by shareholders at the 2023 AGM, a total of 23,951,466 shares (2022: 22,277,147 shares) were purchased in the year to 31 December 2023, being 2.9% (2022: 2.7%) of the shares in issue (excluding shares held in treasury) at the time the authority was granted. The average price paid per share was £5.43 (2022: £5.83 per share) with a total consideration paid (excluding all costs) of £130,000,000 (2022: £129,981,000). Since January 2008 505,604,461 shares have been purchased in total; 11,709,197 shares were held in Treasury as at 31 December 2023, the remainder of which were cancelled. A resolution seeking to renew this authority will be put to shareholders at the AGM on 10 May 2024. Shares held in trust As at 31 December 2023, 1,029,919 shares (2022: 1,375,963 shares) were held by The Rightmove Employees’ Share Trust (EBT) for the benet of Group employees. These shares had a nominal value at 31 December 2023 of £1,030 (2022: £1,376) and a market value of £5,928,214 (2022: £7,031,171). The shares held by the EBT may be used to satisfy share-based incentives for the Group’s employee share plans. During 2023, 346,044 shares (2022: 115,233 shares) were transferred to Group employees following the exercise of share options under the Sharesave plan and the Restricted Share Plan. Additionally, 127,240 shares (2022: 99,476 shares) were purchased by the EBT for transfer to the Rightmove Share Incentive Plan Trust (SIP). The terms of the EBT provide that dividends payable on the shares held by the EBT are waived. ![]() Rightmove plc | Annual Report 2023 | 117 STRATEGIC REPORT GOVERNANCE FINANCIAL STATEMENTS As at 31 December 2023, 1,167,227 shares (2022: 930,592 shares) were held by the SIP for the benet of Group employees. These shares had a nominal value at 31 December 2023 of £1,167 (2022: £931) and a market value of £6,723,227 (2022: £4,755,325). The shares held by the SIP are awarded as free shares to eligible employees each year and are held in trust for a period of three years before an employee is entitled to take ownership of the shares. During the year, 116,940 shares (2022: 85,133 shares) were transferred to Group employees under the SIP rules. Additionally, 226,335 shares (2022: 128,774) were purchased by the SIP to partly satisfy the all employee Free Share Award in December 2023. Research and development The Group undertakes research and development activity in order to develop new products and to continually improve the existing property platforms. Further details are disclosed in Note 2 to the nancial statements. Political and charitable donations During the year the Group did not make donations to any political party or other political organisation and did not incur any political expenditure within the meanings of sections 362 to 379 of the Act (2022: £nil). Details of the Group’s charitable donations are set out in the ESG Report. Annual General Meeting The AGM of the Company will be held at the oces of UBS, 5 Broadgate, London EC2M 2QS on 10 May 2024 at 10am. The Notice of Annual General Meeting will be published in March 2024. The resolutions being proposed at the 2024 AGM include the renewal for a further year of the limited authority of the Directors to allot unissued share capital of the Company and to issue shares for cash other than to existing shareholders (in line with the Pre-Emption Group’s Statement of Principles). A resolution will also be proposed to renew the Directors’ authority to purchase a proportion of the Company’s own shares. The Company will again seek shareholder approval to hold general meetings (other than AGMs) at 14 days’ notice. Resolutions will be proposed to renew these authorities, which would otherwise expire at the 2024 AGM. A resolution will also be proposed to seek shareholder approval for the new rules of the Rightmove plc Share Incentive Plan. Auditor A resolution to re-appoint Ernst & Young LLP (EY) as the auditor of the Group will be proposed in the Notice of AGM (2024). In accordance with section 489 of the Act, separate resolutions for the appointment of EY and for the Audit Committee to determine the auditor’s remuneration will be proposed. Audit information So far as the Directors in oce at the date of this report are aware, there is no relevant audit information of which the auditor is unaware and each Director has taken all reasonable steps to make themselves aware of any relevant audit information and to establish that the auditor is aware of that information. Substantial shareholdings As at the date of this report, the following benecial interests in 3% or more of the Company’s issued ordinary share capital (excluding shares held in treasury) held on behalf of the organisations shown in the table below, had been notied to the Company pursuant to DTR 5.1. The information provided below was correct as at the date of notication, where indicated this was not in the 2023 nancial year. It should be noted that these holdings are likely to have changed since they were notied to the Company. However, notication of any change is not required until the next applicable threshold is crossed. Shareholder Nature of holding Total voting rights % of total voting rights (1) Kayne Anderson Rudnick Investment Management, LLC Direct American Depository Receipts 52,303,906 35,297,316 6.52% 4.40% BlackRock Inc (2) Indirect Contracts for dierence Stock Lending 68,416,171 1,556,760 2,925,856 8.53% 0.19% 0.34% Marathon Asset Management LLP (2) Indirect 42,877,709 5.35% Baillie Giord & Co (2) Indirect 58,736,140 7.33% Standard Life Aberdeen (2) Indirect 45,307,190 5.65% Generation Investment Management LLP (2) Indirect 45,181,680 5.64% Axa Investment Managers SA (2) Indirect Contracts for dierence 44,413,780 376,620 5.54% 0.05% (1) The above percentages are based upon the voting rights share capital (being the shares in issue less shares held in treasury) of 801,740,422 as at 29 February 2024. (2) Date of notification preceded the 2023 financial year. ![]() 118 | Rightmove plc | Annual Report 2023 Governance | Directors’ report continued Articles of Association Any amendment to the Articles may be made in accordance with the provisions of applicable English law concerning companies, specically the Act (as amended from time to time), by way of special resolution at a general meeting of the shareholders. Indemnication of Directors The Articles of Association of the Company allow for a qualifying third-party indemnity provision for the purposes of s234 of the Act between the Company and its past and present Directors and ocers, which remains in force at the date of this report. The Group has also arranged Directors’ and Ocers’ insurance cover in respect of legal action against the Directors. Neither our indemnity nor the insurance provides cover in the event that a Director is proven to have acted dishonestly or fraudulently. The Company has a Share Dealing Code setting out the process and timing for dealing in shares, which is compliant with the Market Abuse Regulation. The Share Dealing Code applies to all Directors, who are persons discharging managerial responsibility, and other insiders. Compensation for loss of oce There are no additional agreements between the Company and its Directors or employees providing for compensation for loss of oce or employment that occurs because of a takeover bid, except that provisions of the Company’s share plans may allow options and awards granted to Directors and employees to vest on a takeover. Transactions with related parties During the year under review neither the Company nor its subsidiaries entered into any material transactions with any related parties, other than those disclosed in Note 25 to the nancial statements. Post-balance sheet events On 1 February 2024, the Group acquired 100% of the equity capital and voting rights of Homeviews Platform Limited (Homeviews) for a total cash consideration of £8m. Homeviews is the UK’s biggest community of veried resident reviews of property developments, with a particular focus on the Build to Rent sector. Due to the timing of the acquisition being after 31 December 2023, the results of Homeviews are not included in our nancial statements for the year ended 31 December 2023 and the acquisition accounting has not yet been completed. In line with IFRS3, the price accounting for the acquisition will be nalised within 12 months of the acquisition date. Other than the above transaction, there were no other subsequent events, between 31 December 2023 and the reporting date, in either the Company or Group. Branches Neither the Company nor its subsidiaries have branches outside the UK. Other Information Information Location in Annual Report Financial instruments and nancial risk management Notes 3 and 24, Financial Statements Appointment, removal and powers of Directors Corporate Governance Report Future developments of the Group’s business Strategic Report (1) Employee engagement Strategic Report: ESG Report (1) Employee share schemes Strategic Report: ESG Report (1) and Directors’ Remuneration Report Health and safety and employee-related policies including diversity and disability Strategic Report: ESG Report (1) Movements in share capital Note 21, Financial Statements Share-based incentives Note 23, Financial Statements Long-term incentive plans Directors’ Remuneration Report Energy and Greenhouse Gas Report Strategic Report: ESG Report (1) Fair, balanced and understandable Audit Committee report and Directors’ statement of responsibilities Directors’ indemnities Corporate Governance Report (1) The Board has taken advantage of section 414C(11) of the Act to include disclosures in the Strategic Report on the items indicated above. The Directors’ Report was approved by the Board on 29 February 2024. Signed on behalf of the Board Johan Svanstrom Chief Executive Ocer 29 February 2024 ![]() Rightmove plc | Annual Report 2023 | 119 STRATEGIC REPORT GOVERNANCE FINANCIAL STATEMENTS Governance | Directors’ Responsibilities statement Statement of Directors’ responsibilities in respect of the annual report and the nancial statements The Directors are responsible for preparing the Annual Report and the Group and parent Company nancial statements in accordance with applicable law and regulations. Company law requires the Directors to prepare Group and parent Company nancial statements for each nancial year. Under that law they are required to prepare the Group nancial statements in accordance with UK-adopted international accounting standards and applicable law and have elected to prepare the parent Company nancial statements on the same basis. In addition, the Group nancial statements are required under the UK Disclosure Guidance and Transparency Rules to be prepared in accordance with UK adopted International Financial Reporting Standards. Under company law the Directors must not approve the nancial statements unless they are satised that they give a true and fair view of the state of aairs of the Group and parent Company and of the Group’s prot or loss for that period. In preparing each of the Group and parent Company nancial statements, the Directors are required to: • present information, including accounting policies, in a manner that provides relevant, reliable, comparable and understandable information; • provide additional disclosures when compliance with the specic requirements in IFRSs is insucient to enable users to understand the impact of particular transactions, other events and conditions on the group and company nancial position and nancial performance; • select suitable accounting policies and then apply them consistently; • make judgements and estimates that are reasonable, relevant and reliable; • state whether they have been prepared in accordance with UK-adopted international accounting standards; • assess the Group and parent Company’s ability to continue as a going concern, disclosing, as applicable, matters related to going concern; and • use the going concern basis of accounting unless they either intend to liquidate the Group or the parent Company or to cease operations, or have no realistic alternative but to do so. The Directors are responsible for keeping adequate accounting records that are sucient to show and explain the parent Company’s transactions and disclose with reasonable accuracy at any time the nancial position of the parent Company and enable them to ensure that its nancial statements comply with the Companies Act 2006. They are responsible for such internal controls as they determine are necessary to enable the preparation of nancial statements that are free from material misstatement, whether due to fraud or error, and have general responsibility for taking such steps as are reasonably open to them to safeguard the assets of the Group and to prevent and detect fraud and other irregularities. Under applicable law and regulations, the Directors are also responsible for preparing a Strategic Report, Directors’ Report, Directors’ Remuneration Report and Corporate Governance Statement that complies with that law and those regulations. The Directors are responsible for the maintenance and integrity of the corporate and nancial information included on the Company’s website. Legislation in the UK governing the preparation and dissemination of nancial statements may dier from legislation in other jurisdictions. Responsibility statement of the Directors in respect of the annual nancial report We conrm that to the best of our knowledge: • the nancial statements, prepared in accordance with the UK adopted international accounting standards, give a true and fair view of the assets, liabilities, nancial position and prot or loss of the Company and the undertakings included in the consolidation taken as a whole; and • the strategic report/Directors’ report includes a fair review of the development and performance of the business and the position of the issuer and the undertakings included in the consolidation taken as a whole, together with a description of the principal risks and uncertainties that they face. We consider the annual report and accounts, taken as a whole, is fair, balanced and understandable and provides the information necessary for shareholders to assess the Group’s position and performance, business model and strategy. Signed on behalf of the Board: Johan Svanstrom Chief Executive Ocer 29 February 2024 Alison Dolan Chief Financial Ocer ![]() 120 | Rightmove plc | Annual Report 2023 Governance | Independent auditor’s report to the members of Rightmove plc Auditor’s report Opinion In our opinion: • Rightmove plc’s group nancial statements and parent company nancial statements (the “nancial statements”) give a true and fair view of the state of the group’s and of the parent company’s aairs as at 31 December 2023 and of the group’s prot for the year then ended; • the group nancial statements have been properly prepared in accordance with UK adopted international accounting standards; • the parent company nancial statements have been properly prepared in accordance with UK adopted international accounting standards as applied in accordance with section 408 of the Companies Act 2006; and • the nancial statements have been prepared in accordance with the requirements of the Companies Act 2006. We have audited the nancial statements of Rightmove plc (the ‘parent company’) and its subsidiaries (the ‘group’) for the year ended 31 December 2023 which comprise: Group Parent company Consolidated statement of nancial position as at 31 December 2023 Company statement of nancial position as at 31 December 2023 Consolidated statement of comprehensive income for the year then ended Company statement of changes in shareholders’ equity for the year then ended Consolidated statement of cash ows for the year then ended Company Statement of cash ows for the year then ended Consolidated statement of changes in shareholders’ equity for the year then ended Related notes 1 to 27 to the nancial statements including material accounting policy information Related notes 1 to 27 to the nancial statements, including material accounting policy information The nancial reporting framework that has been applied in their preparation is applicable law and UK adopted international accounting standards and as regards the parent company nancial statements, as applied in accordance with section 408 of the Companies Act 2006. Basis for opinion We conducted our audit in accordance with International Standards on Auditing (UK) (ISAs (UK)) and applicable law. Our responsibilities under those standards are further described in the Auditor’s responsibilities for the audit of the nancial statements section of our report. We believe that the audit evidence we have obtained is sucient and appropriate to provide a basis for our opinion Independence We are independent of the group and parent in accordance with the ethical requirements that are relevant to our audit of the nancial statements in the UK, including the FRC’s Ethical Standard as applied to listed public interest entities, and we have fullled our other ethical responsibilities in accordance with these requirements. The non-audit services prohibited by the FRC’s Ethical Standard were not provided to the group or the parent company and we remain independent of the group and the parent company in conducting the audit. Conclusions relating to going concern In auditing the nancial statements, we have concluded that the Directors’ use of the going concern basis of accounting in the preparation of the nancial statements is appropriate. Our evaluation of the directors’ assessment of the group and parent company’s ability to continue to adopt the going concern basis of accounting included: • We understood the process undertaken by management to perform the going concern assessment, including any impacts of the macroeconomic environment; • We obtained management’s going concern assessment, including the cash ow forecasts for the going concern period to 30 June 2025; ![]() Rightmove plc | Annual Report 2023 | 121 STRATEGIC REPORT GOVERNANCE FINANCIAL STATEMENTS • We assessed the reasonableness of all key assumptions, namely revenue performance per revenue stream and operating margin. This has been performed by: - checking the arithmetical and logical accuracy of management’s model; - agreeing opening cash to the audited 2023 position; - assessing the historical forecasting accuracy of the Group by comparing actual revenue and operating prot to forecast for previous years; - comparing the revenue forecasts to the revenues generated in 2023, planned price increases and historical changes in customer numbers; and - checking for consistency of the forecasts with other areas of the audit including impairment assessment. • We compared current trading performance to management’s going concern forecast by obtaining the latest available management accounts to identify any issues with current trading and cashows; • We also considered the impact of Rightmove’s climate commitments on the cash ow forecasts; • We recalculated the results of the sensitivity testing performed by management to determine the impact of reasonably possible uctuations in key assumptions on the Group’s available liquidity; • We compared the reduction in revenues assumed in the most severe scenario presented by management, to the revenue declines demonstrated during recent economic crises/COVID-19. We have also compared the forecast result to reports from analysts; • We performed reverse stress testing to establish the level of change in revenue necessary to cause a liquidity breach and considered the likelihood of such a change; • We considered the further mitigating actions available to the Group, such as reducing marketing and headcount costs. We have also considered the feasibility of management being able to execute such mitigating actions, when considering the likelihood of the reverse stress testing scenario; and • We reviewed the appropriateness of management’s going concern disclosure in describing its ability to continue to operate as a going concern from the date of approval of the nancial statements to 30 June 2025. We observed that in management’s base case and in the downside sensitivities that there is liquidity headroom without taking the benet of any identied controllable mitigations. Furthermore, management’s reverse stress test scenario to model the extent of revenue reduction compared to forecasts required to exhaust available liquidity during the going concern assessment period is considered by the Directors to be remote. Based on the work we have performed, we have not identied any material uncertainties relating to events or conditions that, individually or collectively, may cast signicant doubt on the group and parent company’s ability to continue as a going concern for a period to 30 June 2025. In relation to the group and parent company’s reporting on how they have applied the UK Corporate Governance Code, we have nothing material to add or draw attention to in relation to the Directors’ statement in the nancial statements about whether the Directors considered it appropriate to adopt the going concern basis of accounting. Our responsibilities and the responsibilities of the Directors with respect to going concern are described in the relevant sections of this report. However, because not all future events or conditions can be predicted, this statement is not a guarantee as to the group’s ability to continue as a going concern. Overview of our audit approach Audit scope • We performed an audit of the complete nancial information of three components. • The components where we performed full audit procedures accounted for 99% of Prot before tax, 99% of Revenue and 98% of Total assets. Key audit matters • Revenue Recognition Materiality • Overall group materiality of £13.0m which represents 5% of Prot before tax. ![]() 122 | Rightmove plc | Annual Report 2023 Governance | Auditor’s report continued An overview of the scope of the parent company and group audits Tailoring the scope Our assessment of audit risk, our evaluation of materiality and our allocation of performance materiality determine our audit scope for each company within the Group. Taken together, this enables us to form an opinion on the consolidated nancial statements. We take into account size, risk prole, the organisation of the group and eectiveness of group-wide controls, changes in the business environment, the potential impact of climate change and other factors such as recent Internal audit results when assessing the level of work to be performed at each company. In assessing the risk of material misstatement to the Group nancial statements, and to ensure we had adequate quantitative coverage of signicant accounts in the nancial statements, of the ve reporting components of the Group, we selected three components covering entities within the United Kingdom, which represent the principal business units within the Group. Of the three components selected, we performed an audit of the complete nancial information of three components (“full scope components”) which were selected based on their size or risk characteristics. The reporting components where we performed audit procedures accounted for 99% (2022: 99%) of the Group’s Prot before tax, 99% (2022: 99%) of the Group’s Revenue and 98% (2022: 98%) of the Group’s Total assets. Of the remaining two components that together represent 1% of the Group’s Prot before tax, none are individually greater than 1% of the Group’s Prot before tax. For these components, we performed other procedures, including analytical review, testing of consolidation journals and intercompany eliminations, and testing cash conrmations to respond to any potential risks of material misstatement to the Group nancial statements. Changes from the prior year There are no changes in scoping in comparison to the prior year. Involvement with component teams All audit work performed for the purposes of the audit was undertaken by the Group audit team. Climate change Stakeholders are increasingly interested in how climate change will impact Rightmove plc. The Group has determined that the most signicant future impacts from climate change on their operations will be from transitional risks (such as customer demand for greater environmental diligence and heating regulations) and physical risks (such as extreme weather on data centres). These are explained on pages 39-40 in the required Task Force for Climate related Financial Disclosures. They have also explained their climate commitments on pages 42-44. All of these disclosures form part of the “Other information”, rather than the audited nancial statements. Our procedures on these unaudited disclosures therefore consisted solely of considering whether they are materially inconsistent with the nancial statements or our knowledge obtained in the course of the audit or otherwise appear to be materially misstated, in line with our responsibilities on “Other information”. In planning and performing our audit we assessed the potential impacts of climate change on the Group’s business and any consequential material impact on its nancial statements. As explained in Note 1 General information, judgements and estimates to the consolidated nancial statements, the Group concluded that there were no factors identied that would have a material impact on the Group’s nancial reporting judgements and estimates in the current year. Governmental and societal responses to climate change risks are still developing, and are interdependent upon each other, and consequently nancial statements cannot capture all possible future outcomes as these are not yet known. ![]() Rightmove plc | Annual Report 2023 | 123 STRATEGIC REPORT GOVERNANCE FINANCIAL STATEMENTS Our audit eort in considering climate change was focused on the adequacy of the Group’s disclosures in the nancial statements and their conclusion that no issues were identied that would impact the nancial statements for Rightmove plc. We also challenged the Directors’ considerations of climate change risks in their assessment of going concern and viability and associated disclosures. Where considerations of climate change were relevant to our assessment of going concern, these are described above. Based on our work we have not identied the impact of climate change on the nancial statements to be a key audit matter or to impact a key audit matter. Key audit matters Key audit matters are those matters that, in our professional judgment, were of most signicance in our audit of the nancial statements of the current period and include the most signicant assessed risks of material misstatement (whether or not due to fraud) that we identied. These matters included those which had the greatest eect on: the overall audit strategy, the allocation of resources in the audit; and directing the eorts of the engagement team. These matters were addressed in the context of our audit of the nancial statements as a whole, and in our opinion thereon, and we do not provide a separate opinion on these matters. Risk Our response to the risk Key observations communicated to the Audit Committee Revenue recognition (£364.3m, 2022: £332.6m) Refer to the Audit Committee Report (page 79; Accounting policies (page 138); and Note 4 of the Consolidated Financial Statements (page 145) The Group reported revenues of £364.3m for the year ended 31 December 2023. The key revenue streams, being Agency and New Homes, consist of subscription fees and customer spend on additional advertising products in respect of properties listed on Rightmove platforms. There is a risk that revenue is recognised incorrectly, as a result of fraud/error particularly where manual journal entries are posted. Management reward and incentive schemes based on achieving prot targets may also place pressure on management to manipulate revenue recognition. Walkthroughs and controls • We performed walkthroughs of each signicant class of revenue transactions and assessed the design eectiveness of key nancial controls, however, we did not test the operating eectiveness of these controls. • We performed procedures to obtain an understanding of the IT environment and processes relevant to nancial reporting, including billing and revenue recognition. Revenue recognition • We adopted a data analysis approach in relation to revenue and receivables. Our procedures involved analysing full populations of transaction data for all signicant revenue streams and included correlation analysis between invoiced revenue, receivables and cash journals, as well as analysis of credit notes. Where the postings did not follow our expectation, we investigated and assessed their validity by agreeing a sample of transactions back to source documentation. • To support the data analytics procedures we tested a sample of the data inputs against 3rd party evidence, such as the contract with the customer, which takes dierent forms depending upon the products/services sold. Our procedures included consideration as to whether this fullled the IFRS 15 denition of a ‘contract with a customer’ and we compared to the accounting policies in order to assess the appropriateness of revenue recognition. • In respect of deferred income, we tested a sample of transactions to determine that the amount of revenue recognised in the year and the amount deferred at the balance sheet date were accurate. • We have performed cut-o testing for a sample of revenue items and credit notes booked either side of the year end date to determine that revenue was recognised in the period in which the performance obligation was fullled. Management override • We performed specic procedures to address the risk of management override, including testing to identify unusual, new or signicant transactions or contractual terms and targeted journal entry testing over manual journal entries. Based on our procedures performed, we concluded that revenue recognised in the year, and revenue deferred as at 31 December 2023, was appropriate. ![]() 124 | Rightmove plc | Annual Report 2023 Governance | Auditor’s report continued Our application of materiality We apply the concept of materiality in planning and performing the audit, in evaluating the eect of identied misstatements on the audit and in forming our audit opinion. Materiality The magnitude of an omission or misstatement that, individually or in the aggregate, could reasonably be expected to inuence the economic decisions of the users of the nancial statements. Materiality provides a basis for determining the nature and extent of our audit procedures. We determined materiality for the Group to be £13 million (2022: £12 million), which is 5% (2022: 5%) of prot before tax. We believe that prot before tax provides us with the most relevant performance measures to the stakeholders of the entity. We determined materiality for the Parent Company to be £10.6 million (2022: £10.7 million), which is 2% (2022: 2%) of net assets. During the course of our audit, we reassessed initial materiality with the only change in the nal materiality from our original assessment at planning being to reect the actual reported performance of the Group in the year. Performance materiality The application of materiality at the individual account or balance level. It is set at an amount to reduce to an appropriately low level the probability that the aggregate of uncorrected and undetected misstatements exceeds materiality. On the basis of our risk assessments, together with our assessment of the Group’s overall control environment, our judgement was that performance materiality was 75% (2022: 50%) of our planning materiality, namely £9.7m (2022: £6.0m). We have set performance materiality at this percentage due to our assessment of the control environment and lower likelihood of misstatements. We set our performance materiality at 50% in the prior year due to it being the rst year for which we performed the audit. Reporting threshold An amount below which identied misstatements are considered as being clearly trivial. We agreed with the Audit Committee that we would report to them all uncorrected audit dierences in excess of £0.6m (2022: £0.6m), which is set at 5% of planning materiality, as well as dierences below that threshold that, in our view, warranted reporting on qualitative grounds. We evaluate any uncorrected misstatements against both the quantitative measures of materiality discussed above and in light of other relevant qualitative considerations in forming our opinion. Other information The other information comprises the information included in the annual report set out on pages 1 to 119, other than the nancial statements and our auditor’s report thereon. The Directors are responsible for the other information contained within the annual report. Our opinion on the nancial statements does not cover the other information and, except to the extent otherwise explicitly stated in this report, we do not express any form of assurance conclusion thereon. Our responsibility is to read the other information and, in doing so, consider whether the other information is materially inconsistent with the nancial statements or our knowledge obtained in the course of the audit, or otherwise appears to be materially misstated. If we identify such material inconsistencies or apparent material misstatements, we are required to determine whether this gives rise to a material misstatement in the nancial statements themselves. If, based on the work we have performed, we conclude that there is a material misstatement of the other information, we are required to report that fact. We have nothing to report in this regard. ![]() Rightmove plc | Annual Report 2023 | 125 STRATEGIC REPORT GOVERNANCE FINANCIAL STATEMENTS Opinions on other matters prescribed by the Companies Act 2006 In our opinion, the part of the Directors’ remuneration report to be audited has been properly prepared in accordance with the Companies Act 2006. In our opinion, based on the work undertaken in the course of the audit: • the information given in the strategic report and the Directors’ report for the nancial year for which the nancial statements are prepared is consistent with the nancial statements; and • the strategic report and the Directors’ report have been prepared in accordance with applicable legal requirements. Matters on which we are required to report by exception In the light of the knowledge and understanding of the group and the parent company and its environment obtained in the course of the audit, we have not identied material misstatements in the strategic report or the Directors’ report. We have nothing to report in respect of the following matters in relation to which the Companies Act 2006 requires us to report to you if, in our opinion: • adequate accounting records have not been kept by the parent company, or returns adequate for our audit have not been received from branches not visited by us; or • the parent company nancial statements and the part of the Directors’ Remuneration Report to be audited are not in agreement with the accounting records and returns; or • certain disclosures of Directors’ remuneration specied by law are not made; or • we have not received all the information and explanations we require for our audit. Corporate Governance Statement We have reviewed the Directors’ statement in relation to going concern, longer-term viability and that part of the Corporate Governance Statement relating to the group and company’s compliance with the provisions of the UK Corporate Governance Code specied for our review by the Listing Rules. Based on the work undertaken as part of our audit, we have concluded that each of the following elements of the Corporate Governance Statement is materially consistent with the nancial statements or our knowledge obtained during the audit: • Directors’ statement with regards to the appropriateness of adopting the going concern basis of accounting and any material uncertainties identied set out on page 64; • Directors’ explanation as to its assessment of the company’s prospects, the period this assessment covers and why the period is appropriate set out on page 64; • Director’s statement on whether it has a reasonable expectation that the group will be able to continue in operation and meets its liabilities set out on page 64; • Directors’ statement on fair, balanced and understandable set out on page 119; • Board’s conrmation that it has carried out a robust assessment of the emerging and principal risks set out on page 59; • The section of the annual report that describes the review of eectiveness of risk management and internal control systems set out on pages 57-59; and • The section describing the work of the audit committee set out on pages 79-85. ![]() 126 | Rightmove plc | Annual Report 2023 Governance | Auditor’s report continued Responsibilities of Directors As explained more fully in the Directors’ responsibilities statement set out on page 119, the Directors are responsible for the preparation of the nancial statements and for being satised that they give a true and fair view, and for such internal control as the Directors determine is necessary to enable the preparation of nancial statements that are free from material misstatement, whether due to fraud or error. In preparing the nancial statements, the Directors are responsible for assessing the group and parent company’s ability to continue as a going concern, disclosing, as applicable, matters related to going concern and using the going concern basis of accounting unless the Directors either intend to liquidate the group or the parent company or to cease operations, or have no realistic alternative but to do so. Auditor’s responsibilities for the audit of the nancial statements Our objectives are to obtain reasonable assurance about whether the nancial statements as a whole are free from material misstatement, whether due to fraud or error, and to issue an auditor’s report that includes our opinion. Reasonable assurance is a high level of assurance, but is not a guarantee that an audit conducted in accordance with ISAs (UK) will always detect a material misstatement when it exists. Misstatements can arise from fraud or error and are considered material if, individually or in the aggregate, they could reasonably be expected to inuence the economic decisions of users taken on the basis of these nancial statements. Explanation as to what extent the audit was considered capable of detecting irregularities, including fraud Irregularities, including fraud, are instances of non- compliance with laws and regulations. We design procedures in line with our responsibilities, outlined above, to detect irregularities, including fraud. The risk of not detecting a material misstatement due to fraud is higher than the risk of not detecting one resulting from error, as fraud may involve deliberate concealment by, for example, forgery or intentional misrepresentations, or through collusion. The extent to which our procedures are capable of detecting irregularities, including fraud is detailed below. However, the primary responsibility for the prevention and detection of fraud rests with both those charged with governance of the company and management. • We obtained an understanding of the legal and regulatory frameworks that are applicable to the group and determined that the most signicant are those that relate to the reporting framework (IFRS, the Companies Act 2006 and UK Corporate Governance Code), the relevant tax compliance regulations in the UK, FCA compliance for certain of the Group’s activities and the UK General Data Protection Regulation (GDPR). • We understood how Rightmove plc is complying with those frameworks by making enquiries of management, internal audit, those responsible for legal and compliance procedures and the company secretary to establish whether there is a culture of honesty and ethical behaviour and whether a strong emphasis is placed in fraud prevention, which may reduce opportunities for fraud to take place, and fraud deterrence, which could persuade individuals not to commit fraud because of the likelihood of detection and punishment. ![]() Rightmove plc | Annual Report 2023 | 127 STRATEGIC REPORT GOVERNANCE FINANCIAL STATEMENTS • We assessed the susceptibility of the group’s nancial statements to material misstatement, including how fraud might occur by meeting with management from various parts of the business to understand where it considered there was susceptibility to fraud. We also considered the susceptibility to management bias relating to performance targets and the opportunity for management to manage earnings or inuence the perceptions of analysts. We considered the programs and controls that the Group has established to address risks identied, or that otherwise prevent, deter and detect fraud; and how senior management monitors those programs and controls. Where the risk was considered to be higher, we performed audit procedures to address each identied fraud risk. These procedures included the procedures listed for the Key Audit Matter above, testing manual journals and were designed to provide reasonable assurance that the nancial statements were free from fraud or error. • Based on this understanding we designed our audit procedures to identify non-compliance with such laws and regulations. Our procedures involved management enquiries, review of legal correspondences, journal entry testing, and review of board meeting minutes. A further description of our responsibilities for the audit of the nancial statements is located on the Financial Reporting Council’s website at https://www.frc.org.uk/ auditorsresponsibilities. This description forms part of our auditor’s report. Other matters we are required to address • Following the recommendation from the audit committee, we were appointed by the Company on 6 May 2022 to audit the nancial statements for the year ending 31 December 2022 and subsequent nancial periods. • The period of total uninterrupted engagement including previous renewals and reappointments is two years, covering the years ending 31 December 2022 to 31 December 2023. • The audit opinion is consistent with the additional report to the audit committee. Use of our report This report is made solely to the Company’s members, as a body, in accordance with Chapter 3 of Part 16 of the Companies Act 2006. Our audit work has been undertaken so that we might state to the Company’s members those matters we are required to state to them in an auditor’s report and for no other purpose. To the fullest extent permitted by law, we do not accept or assume responsibility to anyone other than the Company and the Company’s members as a body, for our audit work, for this report, or for the opinions we have formed. Anup Sodhi (Senior statutory auditor) for and on behalf of Ernst & Young LLP, Statutory Auditor Luton 29 February 2024 ![]() 128 | Rightmove plc | Annual Report 2023 Note 2023 £000 2022 £000 Revenue 4 364,316 332,622 Administrative expenses (106,283) (91,279) Operating profit 5 258,033 241,343 Operating profit before share-based incentive charges 1 264,570 245,412 Share-based incentive charge 23 (6,537) (4,069) Financial income 7 2,227 381 Financial expenses 8 (491) (442) Net financial income/(expense) 1,736 (61) Profit before tax 259,769 241,282 Income tax expense 9 (60,618) (45,601) Profit for the year being total comprehensive income 199,151 195,681 Attributable to: Equity holders of the Parent 199,151 195,681 Earnings per share (pence) Basic 10 24.5 23.4 Diluted 10 24.4 23.4 The accompanying notes form part of these financial statements. Consolidated statement of comprehensive income for the year ended 31 December 2023 ![]() Rightmove plc | Annual Report 2023 | 129 STRATEGIC REPORT GOVERNANCE FINANCIAL STATEMENTS Consolidated statement of financial position as at 31 December 2023 Note 2023 £000 2022 £000 Non-current assets Property, plant and equipment 12 9,385 10,429 Intangible assets 13 21,842 22,074 Deferred tax asset 15 2,383 1,460 Total non-current assets 33,610 33,963 Current assets Trade and other receivables 16 31,474 26,614 Contract assets 4 759 454 Income tax receivable 165 593 Money market deposits 17 5,224 5,047 Cash and cash equivalents 17 33,641 35,089 Total current assets 71,263 67,797 Total assets 104,873 101,760 Current liabilities Trade and other payables 18 (24,737) (20,874) Lease liabilities 19 (2,291) (2,327) Contract liabilities 4 (2,536) (2,325) Total current liabilities (29,564) (25,526) Non-current liabilities Lease liabilities 19 (5,112) (7,242) Provisions 20 (841) (829) Total non-current liabilities (5,953) (8,071) Total liabilities (35,517) (33,597) Net assets 69,356 68,163 Equity Share capital 21 814 838 Other reserves 618 594 Retained earnings (net of own shares held) 67,924 66,731 Total equity attributable to the equity holders of the Parent 69,356 68,163 The accompanying notes form part of these financial statements. The financial statements were approved by the Board of Directors on 29 February 2024 and were signed on its behalf by: Johan Svanstrom Alison Dolan Director Director ![]() 130 | Rightmove plc | Annual Report 2023 Company statement of financial position as at 31 December 2023 Note 2023 £000 2022 £000 Non-current assets Investments 14 568,139 563,896 Deferred tax asset 15 903 478 Total non-current assets 569,042 564,374 Current assets Cash and cash equivalents 17 100 – Total current assets 100 – Total assets 569,142 564,374 Current liabilities Trade and other payables 18 (37,161) (27,648) Total current liabilities (37,161) (27,648) Net assets 531,981 536,726 Equity Share capital 21 814 838 Other reserves 135,129 130,862 Retained earnings (net of own shares held) 396,038 405,026 Total equity attributable to the equity holders of the Parent 531,981 536,726 The profit for the year of the Company was £193,245,000 (2022: £194,391,000). The accompanying notes form part of these financial statements. Registered Company number: 6426485 The financial statements were approved by the Board of Directors on 29 February 2024 and were signed on its behalf by: Johan Svanstrom Alison Dolan Director Director ![]() Rightmove plc | Annual Report 2023 | 131 STRATEGIC REPORT GOVERNANCE FINANCIAL STATEMENTS Consolidated statement of cash flows for the year ended 31 December 2023 Note 2023 £000 2022 £000 Cash flows from operating activities Profit for the year 199,151 195,681 Adjustments for: Depreciation charges 12 3,424 3,504 Amortisation charges 13 1,560 1,082 Financial income 7 (2,227) (381) Financial expenses 8 491 442 Share-based payments 23 5,886 4,179 Income tax expense 9 60,618 45,601 Operating cash flow before changes in working capital 268,903 250,108 Increase in trade and other receivables 16 (4,503) (3,456) Increase/(decrease) in trade and other payables 18 3,863 (1,883) Increase in provisions 20 – 39 Increase in contract assets 4 (305) (334) Increase/(decrease) in contract liabilities 4 211 (308) Cash generated from operating activities 268,169 244,166 Financial expenses paid (479) (451) Income taxes paid (60,979) (45,622) Net cash from operating activities 206,711 198,093 Cash flows used in investing activities Interest received on cash and cash equivalents 1,694 305 Increase in money market deposits – (44) Acquisition of property, plant and equipment 12 (2,018) (835) Acquisition of intangible assets 13 (1,328) (2,015) Net cash used in investing activities (1,652) (2,589) Cash flows used in financing activities Dividends 11 (71,651) (67,679) Purchase of own shares for cancellation 21 (130,000) (129,981) Purchase of own shares for share incentive plans 22 (1,998) (2,898) Cost incurred on purchase of own shares 21 (922) (933) Payment of principal portion of lease liabilities 19 (2,530) (2,391) Proceeds on exercise of share-based incentives 594 482 Net cash used in financing activities (206,507) (203,400) Net decrease in cash and cash equivalents (1,448) (7,896) Cash and cash equivalents at 1 January 35,089 42,985 Cash and cash equivalents at 31 December 17 33,641 35,089 The accompanying notes form part of these financial statements. ![]() 132 | Rightmove plc | Annual Report 2023 Company statement of cash flows for the year ended 31 December 2023 Note 2023 £000 2022 £000 Cash flows from operating activities Profit for the year 193,245 194,391 Adjustments for: Dividends (199,039) (198,541) Financial expenses 25 2,096 226 Share-based payments 23 1,644 879 Income tax credit (1,981) (858) Operating cash flow before changes in working capital (4,035) (3,903) Cash received on the transfer of the EBT 2 237 – Increase in trade and other payables 18 4,272 3,903 Cash generated from operating activities 237 – Interest received on cash and cash deposits 3 – Cash generated from investing activities 3 – Purchase of own shares for share incentive plans (725) – Cost incurred on purchase of own shares (9) – Proceeds on exercises of share-based incentives 594 – Cash used in financing activities (140) – Net increase in cash and cash equivalents 100 – Cash and cash equivalents at 1 January – – Cash and cash equivalents at 31 December 17 100 – The dividends paid from Rightmove plc were funded by Rightmove Group Limited. The accompanying notes form part of these financial statements. ![]() Rightmove plc | Annual Report 2023 | 133 STRATEGIC REPORT GOVERNANCE FINANCIAL STATEMENTS Consolidated statement of changes in shareholders’ equity for the year ended 31 December 2023 Note Share capital £000 Own shares held £000 Other reserves £000 Reverse acquisition reserve £000 Retained earnings £000 Total equity £000 At 1 January 2022 860 (11,588) 434 138 80,688 70,532 Total comprehensive income Profit for the year – – – – 195,681 195,681 Transactions with owners recorded directly in equity Share-based payments 23 – – – – 4,179 4,179 Tax credit in respect of share-based incentives recognised directly in equity 9 – – – – (1,220) (1,220) Dividends 11 – – – – (67,679) (67,679) Exercise of share-based awards 22 – 588 – – (106) 482 Purchase of shares for share incentive plans 22 – (2,898) – – – (2,898) Cancellation of own shares 21 (22) – 22 – (129,981) (129,981) Costs of shares purchases 21 – – – – (933) (933) At 31 December 2022 838 (13,898) 456 138 80,629 68,163 At 1 January 2023 838 (13,898) 456 138 80,629 68,163 Total comprehensive income Profit for the year – – – – 199,151 199,151 Transactions with owners recorded directly in equity Share-based payments 23 – – – – 5,886 5,886 Tax charge in respect of share-based incentives recognised directly in equity 9 – – – – 133 133 Dividends 11 – – – – (71,651) (71,651) Exercise of share-based incentives 22 – 2,156 – – (1,562) 594 Purchase of shares for share incentive plans 22 – (1,998) – – – (1,998) Cancellation of own shares 21 (24) – 24 – (130,000) (130,000) Costs of share purchases 21 – – – – (922) (922) At 31 December 2023 814 (13,740) 480 138 81,664 69,356 The accompanying notes form part of these financial statements. ![]() 134 | Rightmove plc | Annual Report 2023 Company statement of changes in shareholders’ equity for the year ended 31 December 2023 Note Share capital £000 Own shares held £000 Other reserves £000 Reverse acquisition reserve £000 Retained earnings £000 Total equity £000 At 1 January 2022 860 (10,035) 24,164 103,520 419,731 538,240 Total comprehensive income Profit for the year – – – – 194,391 194,391 Transactions with owners recorded directly in equity Share-based payments 23 – – – – 879 879 Tax credit in respect of share-based incentives recognised directly in equity 9 – – – – (123) (123) Share-based payments to subsidiary employees 14 – – 3,156 – – 3,156 Dividends to shareholders 11 – – – – (67,679) (67,679) Transfer of shares to SIP – (1,238) – – – (1,238) Exercise of share-based incentives – 529 – – (529) – Cancellation of own shares 21 (22) – 22 – (129,981) (129,981) Costs of share purchases 21 – – – – (919) (919) At 31 December 2022 838 (10,744) 27,342 103,520 415,770 536,726 At 1 January 2023 838 (10,744) 27,342 103,520 415,770 536,726 Total comprehensive income Profit for the year – – – – 193,245 193,245 Transactions with owners recorded directly in equity Share-based payments 23 – – – – 1,644 1,644 Tax charge in respect of share-based incentives recognised directly in equity 9 – – – – 100 100 Share-based payments to subsidiary employees 14 – – 4,243 – – 4,243 Dividends to shareholders 11 – – – – (71,651) (71,651) Dividend in specie 25 – (3,156) – – 3,156 – Transfer to or Purchase of shares for the SIP 22 – (1,998) – – – (1,998) Exercise of share-based incentives 22 – 2,156 – – (1,562) 594 Cancellation of own shares 21 (24) – 24 – (130,000) (130,000) Costs of share purchases 21 – – – – (922) (922) At 31 December 2023 814 (13,742) 31,609 103,520 409,780 531,981 The accompanying notes form part of these financial statements. ![]() Rightmove plc | Annual Report 2023 | 135 STRATEGIC REPORT GOVERNANCE FINANCIAL STATEMENTS 1 General information, judgements and estimates Rightmove plc (the Company) is a public limited company registered in England (Company no. 6426485) domiciled in the United Kingdom (UK). The consolidated financial statements of the Company as at and for the year ended 31 December 2023 comprise the Company and its interest in its subsidiaries (together referred to as ‘the Group’). Its principal business is the operation of the Rightmove platforms, which have the largest audience of any UK property portal (as measured by time on site). The consolidated financial statements of the Group as at and for the year ended 31 December 2023 are available upon request from the Company Secretary from the Company’s registered office at 2 Caldecotte Lake Business Park, Caldecotte Lake Drive, Caldecotte, Milton Keynes, MK7 8LE or are available on the corporate website at plc.rightmove.co.uk. Statement of compliance The Group and Company financial statements have been prepared and approved by the Board of Directors in accordance with UK-adopted international accounting standards (IFRS). The consolidated financial statements were authorised for issue by the Board of Directors on 29 February 2024. Basis of preparation The accounts have been prepared in accordance with UK-adopted international accounting standards and the requirements of the Companies Act 2006. On publishing the Company financial statements here together with the Group financial statements, the Company is taking advantage of the exemption in section 408 of the Companies Act 2006 not to present its individual statement of comprehensive income and related notes that form a part of these approved financial statements. The financial statements have been prepared on an historical cost basis. Climate change In preparing the financial statements, the Directors have considered the impact of climate change, particularly in the context of the climate change risks identified in the Sustainability section of the Strategic Report and the Group’s stated target of net zero carbon emissions by 2040. These considerations did not have a material impact on the financial reporting judgements and estimates in the current year. This reflects the conclusion that climate change is not expected to have a significant impact on the Group’s short-term or medium-term cash flows including those considered in the going concern and viability assessments, impairment assessments of the carrying value of non-current assets and the estimates of future profitability used in our assessment of the recoverability of deferred tax assets. Basis of consolidation Subsidiaries are entities controlled by the Group. Control exists when the Group has existing rights that give it the ability to direct the relevant activities of an entity and affect the returns the Group will receive as a result of its involvement with the entity. In assessing control, potential voting rights that are currently exercisable or convertible are taken into account. The financial statements of subsidiaries are included in the consolidated financial statements from the date that control commences until the date that control ceases. Alternative performance measures In the analysis of the Group’s financial performance, certain information disclosed in the financial statements may be prepared on a non-GAAP basis or have been derived from amounts calculated in accordance with IFRS but are not themselves an expressly permitted GAAP measure. These measures are reported in line with the way in which financial information is analysed by management and designed to increase comparability of the Group’s year-on-year financial position, based on its operational activity. The key alternative performance measures presented by the Group are: • Underlying profit: which is defined as profit for the year before share-based payments charges (including the related National Insurance and appropriate tax adjustments); • Underlying operating profit: which is defined as operating profit before share-based payments charges (including the related National Insurance); • Underlying basic earnings per share (EPS): which is defined as underlying profit divided by the weighted average number of ordinary shares outstanding during the period; • Underlying costs: which is defined as administrative expenses before share-based payments charges (including the related National Insurance); and • Underlying operating margin: which is defined as the underlying operating profit as a percentage of revenue. The Directors believe that these alternative performance measures provide a more appropriate measure of the Group’s business performance, as share-based payments are a non-cash charge that is not entirely driven by the principal operational activity of the Group. The Directors therefore consider underlying operating profit to be the most appropriate indicator of the performance of the business and year-on-year trends. Notes forming part of the financial statements ![]() 136 | Rightmove plc | Annual Report 2023 1 General information, judgements and estimates continued A reconciliation of the underlying performance measures to the GAAP measures are shown below: Underlying profit A reconciliation of the profit for the year to the underlying profit is presented below: 2023 2022 £000£000Profit for the year 199,151 195,681Share-based incentives charge 5,886 4,179NI on share-based incentives 651 (110)Impact on tax charge (1,008) (999)Underlying profit 204,680 198,751 Underlying profit is used instead of profit to calculate the underlying basic earnings per share: which is underlying profit divided by the weighted average number of ordinary shares in issue for the period, whereas earnings per share is profit for the year divided by the weighted average number of ordinary shares in issue for the period (Note 10). Underlying operating profit A reconciliation of the operating profit to the underlying operating profit is presented below: 2023 2022 £000£000Operating profit 258,033 241,343Share-based incentives charge 5,886 4,179NI on share-based incentives 651 (110)Underlying operating profit 264,570 245,412 Underlying operating profit is used to calculate the underlying operating margin: which is underlying operating profit as a proportion of revenue, whereas the operating margin is calculated as operating profit as a proportion of revenue. Underlying costs A reconciliation of the administrative expenses to the underlying costs is presented below: 2023 2022 £000£000Administration expenses 106,283 91,279Share-based incentives charge (5,886) (4,179)NI on share-based incentives (651) 110Underlying costs 99,746 87,210 Going concern The Directors have performed a detailed going concern review and tested the Group’s liquidity in a range of scenarios, as set out below. Throughout the period, the Group was debt-free, remained highly cash generative and had a cash balance of £33.6m and money market deposits of £5.2m at 31 December 2023 (31 December 2022: cash balance of £35.1m and money market deposits of £5.0m). The Group bought back shares to the value of £130.0m during the period (2022: £130.0m) and paid dividends totalling £71.7m in May and October 2023 (2022: £67.7m). In reaching its assessment on going concern, the Directors have used the most recent Board approved forecasts for the Group for the period to 30 June 2025 (‘the going concern period’), which have been modelled to reflect the expected impact of current economic conditions on trading, as set out in these financial statements. Notes continued ![]() Rightmove plc | Annual Report 2023 | 137 STRATEGIC REPORT GOVERNANCE FINANCIAL STATEMENTS 1 General information, judgements and estimates continued In stress testing the future cash flows of the Group, the Directors modelled a range of scenarios which considered the effect on the Group of reductions of varying severity in the number of housing transactions for the period to 30 June 2025 and modelled the likely timing of cashflows from our customers during the going concern period. These included severe but plausible downside scenarios that are considered to pose the greatest threat to the business model and future performance of the Group, such as: an economic shock, increased competition and new disruptive technologies, or a cyber threat. The model considered the impact of changes in the key drivers of the Group’s revenues, including customer numbers and average revenue per advertiser (ARPA) – one scenario being a 30% reduction in revenue. Cost assumptions were also considered in each of the severe but plausible scenarios, including an increase in marketing costs and IT costs, employee recruitment and retention costs, and higher spend on innovation and protection of the platform. The scenarios were stress tested individually and in combination. In all combinations of the scenarios tested, the Group remained cash positive and debt-free. The Directors also reviewed the results of a reverse stress test, which was undertaken to provide an illustration of the scenario required to exhaust cash balances. The possibility of this scenario arising was assessed to be highly remote and could arise only in extreme circumstances, much more severe than the scenarios modelled above. The Directors are confident that the Group will remain cash positive and will have sufficient funds to continue to meet its liabilities as they fall due for at least the period to 30 June 2025 and have therefore prepared the financial statements on a going concern basis. Judgements and estimates The preparation of the consolidated and Company financial statements in accordance with UK-Adopted International accounting standards and the requirements of Companies Act 2006 requires management to make judgements, estimates and assumptions that affect the application of accounting policies and the reported amounts of assets and liabilities, income and expenses. The estimates and associated assumptions are based on historical experience, and various other factors that are believed to be reasonable under the circumstances, the results of which form the basis of making judgements about carrying values of assets and liabilities that are not readily apparent from other sources. Actual results may differ from these estimates. The estimates and underlying assumptions are reviewed on an ongoing basis. Revisions to accounting estimates are recognised in the period in which the estimate is revised and in any future periods, if applicable. Management has determined that there are no areas of estimation uncertainty that have a significant risk of resulting in a material adjustment to the carrying amounts of assets and liabilities within the next financial year or critical judgements in applying accounting policies that have a significant effect on the amounts recognised in the consolidated and Company financial statements. 2 Material accounting policy information New and revised standards and interpretations There were no new standards adopted by the group that had a material impact during the year. The IASB have issued a number of amendments to IFRS that become mandatory in the period: • IAS 1 regarding accounting policies; • IFRS 17 in relation to accounting for insurance contracts; • IAS 8 amendment to the definition of accounting estimates; • IAS 12 amendments in relation to deferred tax related to assets and liabilities arising from a single transaction, including leases and the impact of Pillar Two Model Rules. Except for IAS 1, these amendments are either not applicable or have only an immaterial impact on the Group. The Group is not in scope for Pillar Two rules, as it does not meet the threshold of annual revenue of 750 million Euros and therefore the amendment to IAS12 in relation to Pillar Two has no impact. The Group has evaluated further amendments to IFRS that become mandatory in subsequent periods and assessed that there are no standards that are issued, but not yet effective, that would be expected to have a material impact on the Group in the current or future reporting periods nor on foreseeable future transactions. Existing accounting policies The following accounting policies applied by the Group in these consolidated financial statements are the same as those applied by the Group in its consolidated financial statements as at and for the prior year ended 31 December 2022 except for those disclosed above that are applicable from 1 January 2023. ![]() 138 | Rightmove plc | Annual Report 2023 2 Material accounting policy information continued Revenue Revenue principally represents the amounts receivable from customers in respect of property products, primarily membership of the Rightmove platforms, together with the provision of tenant referencing and rent guarantee insurance. Rightmove also provides non-property services, which includes Data Services and Third-Party advertising. Revenue is recognised based upon the transaction price specified in a contract with a customer. It is recognised at the point when the performance obligations are satisfied, through providing a customer with access to the Rightmove platforms and or products or other services. (i) Property products: membership of Rightmove platforms For membership listing services, customers pay monthly subscriptions to list their properties on the Rightmove platforms. Contracts for these services are per branch location or branch equivalent for Agency, Commercial and Overseas customers and per development for New Homes and Built for Rent customers. They vary in length from one month to five years but are typically for periods of six to 12 months. Performance obligations are satisfied, and revenue recognised, from the point at which the customer has access to the platform to allow them to list their properties. Subscription revenue is spread over the life of the contract. Agency, Overseas and Commercial services are typically billed monthly in advance, from the point the customer gains access to the platform, and New Homes and Built for Rent developers are billed monthly in arrears. Customers have the option to enhance their property listings and presence on Rightmove through purchasing additional advertising products. For products that provide enhanced brand exposure over a period of time, revenue is recognised over the life of the product, from the point the customer gains access to the product. Invoices are sent on a monthly basis, in line with the core listing services. For products with a one-off usage basis, revenue is recognised at the end of the month during which the customer chose to apply and use the product. Discounts may be offered to customers as part of membership or package offers, on a pro-rata basis, and are taken into consideration in the transaction price for each product. (ii) Property products: provision of tenant referencing and insurance broking commission Referencing revenue relates to the supply of tenant referencing services, primarily to lettings agency customers. Performance obligations are satisfied, and revenue is recognised, at the end of the month during which the tenant referencing service is completed and the final report is passed to the customer. Revenue related to insurance broking commission is generated on the sale of rent guarantee insurance to lettings agents and landlord customers, where Rightmove acts as an agent. Revenue is recognised at the start date of the insurance policy purchased and represents the commissions earned. (iii) Non-property products Data Services revenue relates to fees generated for a variety of different data and valuation products and tools. Where the contract gives a customer access to use Rightmove’s property tools, revenue is recognised on a monthly basis, over the life of the product, from the point the customer gains access to the tools. Where the contract is to provide the customer with specific data, revenue is recognised at the point that the data is transferred to the customer. Discounts may be offered to customers on a pro-rata basis and are taken into consideration in the transaction price for each performance obligation. Third-Party advertising revenue represents amounts paid by customers to advertise non-property products on the Rightmove platforms. Performance obligations are met once a customer is actively advertising on the Rightmove platform. Revenue is recognised on a monthly basis over the life of the contract. A small number of arrangements with Third-Party customers mean that Rightmove is acting as an agent, in a principal-agency relationship. In any case where the Group is acting as an agent, revenue is recognised as a net amount, reflecting the margin earned. Contract assets and liabilities Contract assets relate to the Group’s rights to consideration for services that have been provided at the reporting date. Contract assets are transferred to receivables when the rights to consideration have become unconditional. Contract liabilities relate to the advance consideration received from Estate Agency, Overseas and Commercial customers, for which revenue is recognised at a later date, as or when the services are provided. Notes continued ![]() Rightmove plc | Annual Report 2023 | 139 STRATEGIC REPORT GOVERNANCE FINANCIAL STATEMENTS 2 Material accounting policy information continued Investments Investment in subsidiaries are held in the parent company financial statements at cost, plus any capital contribution to the subsidiaries, less any provision for impairment. Further information is included in Note 14. Intangible assets (i) Goodwill Goodwill arising on a business combination represents the difference between the fair value of the consideration paid and the fair value of the net identifiable assets acquired and is included in intangible assets. Goodwill is stated at cost less any accumulated impairment losses. Goodwill is tested annually for impairment. (ii) Research and development The Group undertakes research and development expenditure in view of developing new products and improving the existing property platforms. Expenditure on research activities, undertaken with the prospect of gaining new technical knowledge and understanding, is recognised in the income statement as incurred. Development costs that are directly attributable to the design and testing of identifiable and unique software products, websites and systems controlled by the Group are capitalised and recognised as intangible assets when the following criteria are met: it is technically feasible to complete the software product or website so that it will be available for use; management intends to complete the software product or website and use or sell it; there is an ability to use or sell the software product or website; it can be demonstrated how the software product or website will generate probable future economic benefits; adequate technical, financial and other resources to complete the development and to use or sell the software product or website are available; and, the expenditure attributable to the software product or website during its development can be reliably measured. Development costs, which include employee and contractor costs, are capitalised only from the point when we believe it is probable the development is technically feasible and the software will be used to perform the function intended. Technological feasibility is typically reached once all research has been completed and high risks – such as novel, unique, unproven functions and features or technological innovations – have been investigated and resolved. Other development expenditures that do not meet these criteria, such as costs related to the preliminary project stage and post-implementation activities, as well as ongoing maintenance and costs associated with routine upgrades and enhancements, are recognised as an expense as incurred. Development costs for software, websites and systems are carried at cost less accumulated amortisation and are amortised on a straight-line basis over their useful lives (not exceeding five years) at the point in which they come into use. When internal-use software that was previously capitalised is abandoned, the cost less the accumulated amortisation, if any, is recorded as an expense. Fully amortised capitalised internal-use software costs are removed from their respective accounts. (iii) Computer software and licences Computer software and externally acquired software licences are capitalised and stated at cost less accumulated amortisation and impairment losses. Amortisation is charged from the date the asset is available for use. Amortisation is provided to write off the cost less the estimated residual value of the computer software or licence by equal annual instalments over its estimated useful economic life as follows: Computer software 20.0% – 33.3% per annum Software licences 20.0% – 33.3% per annum (iv) Customer relationships The customer relationships identified on the acquisition of Rightmove Landlord & Tenant Services are valued using the income approach, calculating the multi-period excess earnings. Amortisation is expensed in the income statement on a straight-line basis over the estimated useful economic life of 10 years. Property, plant and equipment Property, plant and equipment are stated at cost less accumulated depreciation and impairment losses. Capitalised costs are held as an asset in progress until such point that the asset is brought into use, at which point it is transferred to the appropriate property, plant and equipment category and depreciation is charged. Depreciation is provided to write off the cost less the estimated residual value of property, plant and equipment by equal annual instalments over their estimated useful economic lives as follows: ![]() 140 | Rightmove plc | Annual Report 2023 2 Material accounting policy information continued Office equipment, fixtures and fittings 20.0% per annum Computer equipment 20.0% – 33.3% per annum Motor vehicles 33.3% per annum Leasehold improvements remaining life of the lease Impairment The carrying value of property, plant and equipment, and intangible assets other than goodwill is reviewed at each reporting date to determine whether there is any indication of impairment. If any such indication exists, the asset’s recoverable amount is estimated. An impairment loss is recognised for the amount by which the asset’s carrying amount exceeds its recoverable amount. Goodwill is not subject to amortisation but is tested for impairment annually and whenever there is an indication that it might be impaired. An impairment loss is recognised for the amount by which the carrying value of the asset exceeds its recoverable amount. The carrying amounts of the Group’s non-financial assets, other than deferred tax assets, are reviewed at each reporting date to determine whether there is any indication of impairment. If any such indication exists, then the asset’s recoverable amount is estimated. The recoverable amount of an asset or cash-generating unit is the greater of its value in use and its fair value less costs to sell. In assessing value in use, the estimated future cash flows are discounted to their present value using a pre-tax discount rate that reflects current market assessments of the time value of money and the risks specific to the asset. For an asset that does not generate largely independent cash flows, the recoverable amount is determined for the cash generating unit to which the asset belongs. For the purpose of impairment testing, assets that cannot be tested individually are grouped together into the smallest group of assets that generate cash inflows from continuing use that are largely independent of the cash inflows of other assets or groups of assets (the “cash-generating unit”). The goodwill acquired in a business combination, for the purpose of impairment testing, is allocated to cash-generating units (or “CGUs”). Goodwill acquired in a business combination is allocated to groups of CGUs that are expected to benefit from the synergies of the combination. An impairment loss is recognised if the carrying amount of an asset or its CGU exceeds its estimated recoverable amount. Impairment losses are recognised in the income statement. Impairment losses recognised in respect of CGUs are allocated first to reduce the carrying amount of any goodwill allocated to the units, and then to reduce the carrying amounts of the other assets in the unit (group of units) on a pro-rata basis. Cash and cash equivalents Cash and cash equivalents comprise cash balances and call deposits with original maturities of three months or less. Where the original maturity exceeds three months, amounts are classified as money market deposits and presented separately within the Balance Sheet. Provisions A provision is recognised if, as a result of a past event, the Group has a present legal or constructive obligation that can be reliably estimated and it is probable that an outflow of economic benefits will be required to settle the obligation. Dilapidation provisions are determined by discounting the expected future cash flows at a pre-tax rate that reflects current market assessments of the time value of money and the risks specific to the liability. Leases When a contractual arrangement contains a lease, the Group recognises a lease liability and a corresponding right of use asset at the commencement of the lease. At the commencement date the lease liability is measured at the present value of the future lease payments, discounted using the Group’s incremental borrowing rate where the interest rate in the lease is not readily determined. Subsequently, the lease liability is adjusted by increasing the carrying amount to reflect interest on the lease liability, reducing the carrying amount to reflect the lease payments made and remeasuring the carrying amount to reflect any reassessment or lease modifications. The lease term is determined from the commencement date of the lease and covers the non-cancellable term. If the Group has an extension option, which it considers it reasonably certain to exercise, then the lease term will be considered to extend Notes continued ![]() Rightmove plc | Annual Report 2023 | 141 STRATEGIC REPORT GOVERNANCE FINANCIAL STATEMENTS 2 Material accounting policy information continued beyond that non-cancellable period. If the Group has a termination option, which it considers it is reasonably certain to exercise, then the lease term will be considered to be until the point the termination option will take effect. At the commencement date the right of use asset is measured at an amount equal to the lease liability plus any lease payments made before the commencement date and any initial direct costs, less any lease incentive payments. An estimate of costs to be incurred in restoring an asset, in accordance with the terms of the lease, is also included in the right of use asset at initial recognition. Subsequently, the right of use asset is depreciated over the life of the lease term. An adjustment is also made to the right of use asset to reflect any remeasurement of the corresponding lease liability. The right of use assets are also subject to impairment testing under IAS 36. Short-term leases and low value leases are not recognised as lease liabilities and right of use assets but are recognised as an expense straight line over the lease term. Employee benefits (i) Pensions The Group provides access to stakeholder pension schemes (defined contribution pension plans). Obligations for contributions to defined contribution pension plans are recognised as an employee benefit expense in the income statement when they are incurred. (ii) Employee share schemes The Group provides share-based incentive plans allowing Executive Directors and other employees to acquire shares in the Company. An expense is recognised in the income statement, with a corresponding increase in equity, over the period during which the employees become unconditionally entitled to acquire equity settled share-based incentives. Fair value at the grant date is measured using either the Monte Carlo or Black Scholes pricing model as is most appropriate for each scheme. Measurement inputs include: share price on measurement date; exercise price of the instrument; expected volatility (based on weighted average historic volatility adjusted for changes expected due to publicly available information); weighted average expected life of the instruments (based on historical experience and general option behaviour); expected dividends; and, risk-free interest rates (based on Government bonds). Service and non-market performance conditions attached to the awards are not taken into account in determining the fair value of the individual shares awarded. For share-based incentive awards with non-vesting conditions, the grant date fair value of the share-based incentives is measured to reflect such conditions and there is no true-up for differences between expected and actual outcomes. When either the employee or the Company chooses not to meet the non-vesting condition, the failure to meet the non-vesting condition is treated as a cancellation and the cost that would have been recognised over the remainder of the vesting period is recognised immediately in the income statement. For awards with market-related performance criteria (such as TSR), an expense is recognised over the vesting period irrespective of whether the market condition is satisfied. Share awards to employees are made by the Company and treated as equity settled share-based payments: share-based payments awards which are shareholder approved schemes (DSP and PSP) are settled via Treasury shares for employees. EBT shares are used for the non-shareholder approved schemes (RSP) and for the SAYE shares. The SIP shares are used to settle the SIP award of free shares to employees. (iii) Own shares held by The Rightmove Employee Share Trust (EBT) The Group put in place an employee benefit trust (EBT) several years ago. The EBT was sponsored and funded by the parent company at the time, which was Rightmove Group Limited. Whilst the Group was since restructured under a new topco – the Company Rightmove plc – the sponsorship of the trust was not changed and the EBT shares were held in the subsidiary Rightmove Group Limited until 1 January 2023. At this point, the sponsorship of the trust was transferred to Rightmove plc via a dividend in specie. EBT transactions are now treated as being those of Rightmove plc, rather than of Rightmove Group Limited, and are charged directly to equity. There is no impact on the consolidated Group position. (iv) Own shares held by The Rightmove Share Incentive Plan Trust (SIP) The Company established the Rightmove Share Incentive Plan Trust (SIP) in November 2014. The SIP is treated as an agent of Rightmove plc, and as such SIP transactions are treated as being those of Rightmove plc and are therefore reflected in the Group’s consolidated financial statements. At a consolidated level, the SIP’s purchases of shares in the Company are charged directly to equity. (v) Own shares held by Treasury The company bought the Treasury shares in 2008 and these shares may be used to satisfy shareholder approved share-based incentive awards. ![]() 142 | Rightmove plc | Annual Report 2023 2 Material accounting policy information continued (vi) National Insurance (NI) on share-based incentives Employer’s NI is accrued, where applicable, at a rate of 13.8%, which management expects to be the prevailing rate when share-based incentives are exercised. In the case of share options, it is provided on the difference between the share price at the reporting date and the average exercise price of share options. In the case of nil cost performance shares and deferred shares, it is provided based on the share price at the reporting date. The NI on share-based payments in relation to the exercise of the shares is charged to the income statement over the vesting period of the award. Treasury shares and shares purchased for cancellation When share capital recognised as equity is repurchased, the amount of the consideration paid, including directly attributable costs, is recognised as a deduction from equity. Repurchased shares are either held in treasury or cancelled. Financial instruments Under IFRS 9, on initial recognition, a financial asset is classified and measured at: amortised cost, fair value through profit or loss, or fair value though other comprehensive income. A financial asset is measured at amortised cost if it meets both of the following conditions: it is held within a business model whose objective is to hold assets to collect contractual cash flows; and its contractual terms give rise on specified dates to cash flows that are solely payments of principal and interest on the principal amount outstanding. Under IFRS 9, trade receivables including contract assets, without a significant financing component, are classified and held at amortised cost, being initially measured at the transaction price and subsequently measured at amortised cost less any impairment loss. The Group has elected to measure loss allowances for trade receivables and contract assets at an amount equal to lifetime expected credit losses (‘ECLs’). Credit losses are measured as the present value of all cash shortfalls (i.e. the difference between the cash flows due to the entity in accordance with the contract and the cash flows that the Group expects to receive). The Group assumes that the credit risk on a financial asset has increased significantly if it is more than 30 days past due. The Group assesses whether a financial asset is in default on a case by case basis when it becomes probable that the customer is unlikely to pay its credit obligations. The gross carrying amount of a financial asset is written off when the Group has no reasonable expectations of recovering a financial asset in its entirety or a portion thereof. For all customers, the Group individually makes an assessment with respect to the timing and amount of write-off based on whether there is a reasonable expectation of recovery. The Group expects no significant recovery from the amount written off. However, financial assets that are written off could still be subject to enforcement activities in order to comply with the Group’s procedures for recovery of amounts due. When required, ECLs are adjusted to include any macro-economic factors. At each reporting date, the Group assesses whether financial assets carried at amortised cost are ‘credit-impaired’. A financial asset is ‘credit-impaired’ when one or more events that have a detrimental impact on the estimated future cash flows of the financial asset have occurred. Financial assets are derecognised when the rights to receive cash flows from the asset have expired or the Group has transferred its rights to receive cash flows from the asset. On initial recognition financial liabilities are measured at fair value, they are classified and subsequently measured at amortised cost. Financial liabilities measured at amortised cost include trade and other payables and lease liabilities. Financial liabilities are derecognised when the obligation under the liability is discharged, cancelled or expires. Segmental reporting Rightmove has one reportable segment, being the consolidated result. Whilst the Chief Operating Decision Maker separately monitors revenue for different business units, they do not separately monitor business unit profit, operating costs, financial income, financial expenses and income taxes for these areas of the business, instead monitoring this on a consolidated level. The Group presents internal financial information that measures business performance to the Chief Executive Officer, who is the Group’s Chief Operating Decision Maker. This information is used for the purpose of making decisions about resources to be allocated and of assessing performance. This financial information includes information on revenue performance and specific monitoring of trade receivable levels for each of the following business units: • Agency, which provides resale and lettings property advertising services on Rightmove’s platforms; • New Homes, which provides property advertising services to new home developers and housing associations on Rightmove’s platforms; and Notes continued ![]() Rightmove plc | Annual Report 2023 | 143 STRATEGIC REPORT GOVERNANCE FINANCIAL STATEMENTS 2 Material accounting policy information continued • Other, which comprises Overseas and Commercial property advertising services; non-property advertising services which include our Third-Party advertising and Data Services; and the new mortgages business. All revenues in all periods are derived from third parties. The disaggregated revenue is included within Note 4. Financial income and expenses Financial income comprises interest receivable on cash balances and money market deposits and dividend income. Interest income is recognised as it accrues, using the effective interest method. Dividend income is recognised on the date that the Company’s right to receive payment is established. Financial expenses comprise banking fees and bank charges and the unwinding of the discount on provisions and lease liabilities. Taxation Income tax on the results for the year comprises current and deferred tax. Income tax is recognised in the income statement except to the extent that it relates to items recognised directly in equity, in which case it is recognised in equity. Current tax is the expected tax payable on the taxable income for the period net of any charge or credit posted directly to equity, using tax rates enacted or substantively enacted at the reporting date and any adjustment to tax payable in respect of previous periods. Deferred tax is provided in respect of temporary difference between the carrying amounts of assets and liabilities for financial reporting purposes and the amounts used for tax purposes. The amount of deferred tax provided is based on the expected manner of realisation or settlement of the carrying amount of assets and liabilities, using tax rates enacted or substantively enacted at the reporting date. A deferred tax asset is recognised only to the extent that it is probable that future taxable profits will be available against which the asset can be utilised. The following temporary differences are not provided for: the initial recognition of goodwill; the initial recognition of other assets or liabilities in a transaction that affects neither the taxable profit nor the accounting profit, other than in a business combination; and the differences relating to investments in subsidiaries to the extent that the parent company is able to control the reversal and it is probable that the temporary difference will not reverse in the foreseeable future. Following the amendment to IAS 12, the initial recognition exception no longer applies to lease transactions which give rise to equal taxable and deductible temporary differences. However, as the tax deductions relate to the lease assets, no temporary differences arose on these at initial recognition. In accordance with IAS 12, the Group policy in relation to the recognition of deferred tax on the exercise of share-based incentives is to include the income tax effect of the tax deduction in the income statement, up to the value of the income tax charge on the cumulative IFRS 2 charge. The remainder of the income tax effect of the tax deduction is recognised in equity. Deferred tax assets and liabilities are offset when there is a legally enforceable right to set off current tax assets against current tax liabilities and it is the intention to settle these on a net basis. Dividends Dividends unpaid at the reporting date are only recognised as a liability (and deduction to equity) at that date to the extent that they are appropriately authorised and are no longer at the discretion of the Company. Unpaid dividends that do not meet these criteria are disclosed in the notes to the financial statements. Earnings per share (EPS) The Group presents basic and diluted EPS data for its ordinary shares. Basic EPS is calculated by dividing the profit or loss attributable to equity holders of the Company by the weighted average number of ordinary shares outstanding during the year, adjusted for own shares held. For diluted EPS, the weighted average number of ordinary shares in issue is adjusted to assume conversion of all potentially dilutive shares. The Group’s potential dilutive instruments are in respect of share-based incentives granted to employees, which will be settled by ordinary shares held by the EBT, the SIP and shares held in treasury. ![]() 144 | Rightmove plc | Annual Report 2023 3 Risk and capital management Overview The Group has exposure to the following risks from its use of financial instruments: • credit risk • liquidity risk • market risk This note presents information about the Group and Company’s exposure to each of the above risks, the Group’s objectives, policies and processes for measuring and managing risk and the Group’s management of capital. Further quantitative disclosures are included throughout these consolidated financial statements. Credit risk Credit risk is the risk of financial loss to the Group if a customer or banking institution fails to meet its contractual obligations. The Group’s exposure to credit risk is influenced mainly by the individual characteristics of each customer. The Group provides credit to customers in the normal course of business. The Group provides its services to a wide range of customers in the UK and overseas and therefore believes it has no material concentration of credit risk. The majority of the Group’s customers pay via monthly direct debit, minimising the risk of non-payment. The Group establishes an expected credit loss that represents its estimate of losses in respect of trade and other receivables, including contract assets. Further details of these are given in Note 24. The Group’s treasury policy is to monitor cash and deposit balances on a daily basis and to manage counterparty risk by ensuring that no more than £50,000,000 is held with any single institution. Liquidity risk Liquidity risk is the risk that the Group will encounter difficulties in meeting the obligations associated with its financial liabilities that are settled by delivering cash. The Group and Company’s approach to managing liquidity is to ensure, as far as possible, that it will always have sufficient liquidity to meet its liabilities when due, under both normal and stressed conditions, without incurring unacceptable losses or risking damage to the Group’s reputation. The Group’s revenue model is largely subscription-based, which results in a regular level of cash conversion allowing it to service working capital requirements. The Group and Company ensure that they have sufficient cash on demand to meet expected operational expenses, excluding the potential impact of extreme circumstances that cannot reasonably be predicted, such as natural disasters. Throughout the year, the Group typically had sufficient cash on demand to meet operational expenses, before financing activities, for a period of 152 days (2022: 179 days). Market risk Market risk is the risk that changes in market prices such as foreign exchange and interest rates will affect the Group’s income. The objective of market risk management is to manage and control market risk exposures within acceptable parameters, while optimising the return on risk. (i) Currency risk All of the Group’s sales and more than 97% (2022: 97%) of the Group’s purchases are sterling denominated, accordingly it has no significant currency risk. (ii) Interest rate risk The Group has interest bearing lease liabilities, although the interest on these is insignificant. The Group is exposed to interest rate risk on cash and money market deposit balances. The Company has no interest bearing financial liabilities, other than intercompany payables with its subsidiary Rightmove Group Limited. Capital management The Board’s policy is to maintain an efficient statement of financial position - to maintain investor, creditor and market confidence and to sustain future development of the business. The Board of Directors considers that the future working capital and capital expenditure requirements of the Group will continue to be low and accordingly return on capital measures are not key performance targets. The Board of Directors monitors the spread of the Company’s shareholders as well as basic EPS. The Board’s policy is to return surplus capital to shareholders through a combination of dividends and share buybacks. Notes continued ![]() Rightmove plc | Annual Report 2023 | 145 STRATEGIC REPORT GOVERNANCE FINANCIAL STATEMENTS 3 Risk and capital management continued (i) Dividend policy The Board of Directors has a progressive dividend policy and monitors the level of dividends to ordinary shareholders relative to the growth in underlying profit. The Board has adopted this policy to align shareholder returns with the underlying growth achieved in the profitability of the Company. The capacity of the Company to make dividend payments is primarily determined by the level of available retained earnings in the Company, after deduction of own shares held, and the cash resources of the Group. The retained earnings of the Company, after deduction of own shares held, are £396,038,000 (2022: £405,026,000) as set out in the Company statement of changes in shareholders’ equity. At 31 December 2023, the Group had cash of £33,641,000 (2022: £35,089,000) and money market deposits of £5,224,000 (2022: £5,047,000), the majority of which is held by the principal operating subsidiary, Rightmove Group Limited. The Company is well positioned to fund its future dividends given the strong cash generative nature of the business. In 2023, cash generated from operating activities was £268,181,000 (2022: £244,166,000) representing an operating cash conversion rate of 104% (2022: 101%) where operating cash conversion is defined as the cashflow from operating activities divided by the operating profit for the year. (ii) Share buybacks The Company purchases its own shares in the market; the timing of which depends on available free cash flow and market conditions. In 2023, 23,951,466 (2022: 22,277,147) shares were bought back at an average price of £5.43 (2022: £5.83) and were cancelled (Note 21). There were no changes in the Group’s approach to capital management during the year. Neither the Company nor any of its subsidiaries are subject to externally imposed capital requirements. 4 Revenue The Group’s operations and main revenue streams are those described in these annual financial statements. The Group’s revenue is derived from contracts with customers. Disaggregation of revenue In the following table, revenue is disaggregated by property and non-property advertising revenue. The table also includes a reconciliation of the disaggregated revenue with the Group’s business units. Agency New Homes Other Total Year ended 31 December 2023£000£000£000£000Revenue streamProperty products 261,954 66,447 18,877 347,278Non-property products – – 17,038 17,038261,954 66,447 35,915 364,316Agency New Homes Other Total Year ended 31 December 2022£000£000£000£000Revenue streamProperty products 247,310 52,588 17,254 317,152Non-property products – – 15,470 15,470247,310 52,588 32,724 332,622 ![]() 146 | Rightmove plc | Annual Report 2023 4 Revenue continued Geographic information In presenting information geographically, revenue and assets reflect the physical location of customers. 2023 2022RevenueTrade receivablesRevenueTrade receivablesGroup£000£000£000£000UK 358,470 24,480 327,188 20,880Rest of the world 5,846 11 5,434 29364,316 24,491 332,622 20,909 Contract balances The contract assets primarily relate to the Group’s rights to consideration for services provided but not invoiced at the reporting date. The contract assets are transferred to trade receivables when invoiced and the rights have become unconditional. The contract liabilities primarily relate to the advance consideration received from Agency, Overseas and Commercial customers, for which revenue is recognised as or when the services are provided. The following table provides information about contract assets and contract liabilities from contracts with customers: Contract Contract assets liabilities £000£000Contract balances as at 31 December 2021 120 (2,633)Performance obligations satisfied in 2021 (120) –Performance obligations satisfied in 2022 – 2,623Accrued/(deferred) during 2022 454 (2,315)Contract balances as at 31 December 2022 454 (2,325)Performance obligations satisfied in 2022 (454) –Performance obligations satisfied in 2023 – 2,114Accrued/(deferred) during 2023 759 (2,325)Contract balances as at 31 December 2023 759 (2,536) 5 Operating profit 2023 2022 Note£000£000Operating profit is stated after charging:Employee benefits 6 54,544 45,474Depreciation of property, plant and equipment 12 3,424 3,504Amortisation of intangibles 13 1,560 1,082Trade receivables impairment charge 24 1,712 733 Auditor’s remuneration 2023 2022 £000£000Fees payable to the Company’s auditor in respect of the auditAudit of the Company’s financial statements 55 140Audit of the Company’s subsidiaries pursuant to legislation 345 310Total audit remuneration 400 450 Notes continued ![]() Rightmove plc | Annual Report 2023 | 147 STRATEGIC REPORT GOVERNANCE FINANCIAL STATEMENTS 2023 2022 £000£000Fees payable to the Company’s auditor in respect of non-audit related servicesHalf-year review of the condensed financial statements 40 40All other services – 10Total non-audit remuneration 40 50 There were no other fees payable to Ernst & Young LLP (2022: no other fees payable). 6 Employee numbers and costs The average number of persons employed (including Executive Directors) during the year, analysed by category, was as follows: 2023 2022Number of employeesAdministration 686 606Management 41 41727 647 The average number of employees in the parent company were 10 (2022: 10), including six Non-Executive Directors (2022: six) and four employees within management roles (2022: four). The aggregate payroll costs of these persons were as follows:Group Company2023 2022 2023 2022 £000£000£000£000Wages and salaries 46,420 38,396 2,512 1,593Social security costs 5,768 5,111 424 264Pension costs 2,356 1,967 74 4854,544 45,474 3,010 1,905Share-based payments cost (Note 23) 6,537 4,069 1,883 846Total 61,081 49,543 4,893 2,751 Wages and salaries include £20,897,000 (2022: £15,927,000) relating to the product development and technology teams; these teams spend a proportion of their time on research and development activities, including innovation of our product proposition and enhancements to the Rightmove platforms, as well as on routine maintenance of the platforms. Social security costs only include the National Insurance on wages and salaries; the National Insurance charge of £651,000 (2022: credit of £110,000) relating to NI on share-based incentives is included within the share-based payments cost shown above. 7 Financial income 2023 2022 £000 £000Interest income on cash and cash equivalents 2,050 337Interest income on money market deposits 177 442,227 381 5 Operating profit continued ![]() 148 | Rightmove plc | Annual Report 2023 8 Financial expenses2023 2022 £000 £000Bank charges 287 219Interest unwind on lease and other liabilities 204 223491 442 9 Income tax expense 2023 2022 £000 £000Current tax expenseCurrent year 61,324 46,041Adjustment to current tax charge in respect of prior years 149 10261,473 46,143Deferred tax (Note 15)Origination and reversal of temporary differences (455) (195)Adjustment to deferred tax in respect of prior years (324) (85)Increase in tax rate at which deferred tax is being recognised (76) (262)(855) (542)Total income tax expense 60,618 45,601 Income tax credit recognised directly in equity2023 2022 £000 £000Current taxShare-based incentives (30) (28)Deferred tax Share-based incentives (95) 1,180Increase in tax rate at which deferred tax is being recognised (8) 68(103) 1,248Total income tax (credit)/charge recognised directly in equity (133) 1,220 Total income tax recognised directly in equity in respect of the Company was a credit of £100,000 (2022: a charge of £123,000). Notes continued ![]() Rightmove plc | Annual Report 2023 | 149 STRATEGIC REPORT GOVERNANCE FINANCIAL STATEMENTS 9 Income tax expense continued Reconciliation of effective tax rate The Group’s consolidated effective tax rate for the year ended 31 December 2023 is 23.3% (2022: 18.9%) which is lower than (2022: lower than) the standard rate of Corporation Tax in the UK due to the items shown below: 2023 2022 £000 £000Profit before tax 259,769 241,282Current tax at 23.5% (2022: 19.0%) 61,098 45,844Increase in tax rate at which deferred tax is being provided (76) (262)(Non taxable income)/Net non-deductible expenses (44) 16Adjustment to deferred tax charge in respect of prior years (324) (85)Share-based incentives (167) –Adjustment to current tax charge in respect of prior years 149 102Difference between the current and deferred tax rates (18) (14)60,618 45,601 Factors affecting future tax charge The increase in the UK Corporation Tax rate from 19% to 25% was effective 1 April 2023 (substantively enacted on 24 May 2021). This has increased the Company’s future current tax charge accordingly. The deferred tax at 31 December 2023 has been calculated based on these rates, reflecting the expected timing of reversal of the related temporary differences (Note 15). 10 Earnings per share (EPS)Pence per shareNote £000 Basic DilutedYear ended 31 December 2023Profit for the year and EPS 199,151 24.5 24.4Underlying profit and underlying EPS 1 204,680 25.2 25.1Year ended 31 December 2022 Profit for the year and EPS 195,681 23.4 23.4Underlying profit and underlying EPS 1 198,751 23.8 23.7 Weighted average number of ordinary shares (basic) 2023 2022 Number of shares Number of sharesIssued ordinary shares at 1 January less ordinary shares held by the EBT and SIP Trust 835,094,530 857,732,814Less own shares held in treasury at the beginning of the year (12,185,222) (12,480,472)Weighted effect of own shares purchased for cancellation (9,991,531) (9,977,584)Weighted effect of share-based incentives exercised 433,805 144,448Weighted effect of shares purchased (14,726) (99,344)Issued ordinary shares at 31 December less ordinary shares held by treasury, SIP and the EBT 813,336,856 835,319,862 Weighted average number of ordinary shares (diluted) In calculating diluted EPS, the weighted average number of ordinary shares in issue is adjusted to assume conversion of all potentially dilutive shares. The Group’s potentially dilutive instruments are in respect of share-based incentives granted to employees. ![]() 150 | Rightmove plc | Annual Report 2023 10 Earnings per share (EPS) continued 2023 2022 Number of shares Number of sharesWeighted average number of ordinary shares (basic) 813,336,856 835,319,862Dilutive impact of share-based incentives outstanding 2,002,000 2,185,506815,338,856 837,505,368 The average market value of the Group’s shares for the purposes of calculating the dilutive effect of share-based incentives was based on quoted market prices during the period in which the share-based incentives were outstanding. 11 Dividends Dividends declared and paid by the Company were as follows:2023 2022Pence per share £000 Pence per share £0002021 final dividend paid – – 4.8 40,3122022 interim dividend paid – – 3.3 27,3932022 final dividend paid 5.2 42,588 – –2023 interim dividend paid 3.6 29,084 – –8.8 71,672 8.1 67,705Unclaimed dividends returned – (21) – (26)Net dividends included in the statement of cash flows – 71,651 – 67,679 After the reporting date, a final dividend of 5.7p (2022: 5.2p) per qualifying ordinary share, being £45,330,000 (2022: £42,911,000), was proposed by the Board of Directors. The final dividend will be paid, subject to shareholder approval, on 24 May 2024. The 2022 final dividend of £42,588,000 (5.2p per qualifying share) was paid on 26 May 2023. It was £323,000 lower than that reported in the 2022 annual accounts due to a decrease in the ordinary shares entitled to a dividend between 2 March 2023 and the final dividend record date of 28 April 2023. The 2023 interim dividend paid on 27 October 2023 was £29,084,000, being £216,000 lower than that reported in the 2023 Half-Year report of £29,300,000. This was due to a decrease in the number of ordinary shares entitled to a dividend between 30 June 2023 and the interim dividend record date of 29 September 2023. The terms of the EBT provide that dividends payable on the ordinary shares held by the EBT are waived. No provision was made for the final dividend in either year, and there are no income tax consequences. Notes continued ![]() Rightmove plc | Annual Report 2023 | 151 STRATEGIC REPORT GOVERNANCE FINANCIAL STATEMENTS 12 Property, plant and equipment Office equipment, Land & fixtures & Computer Leasehold Motor \*\*buildingsfittings equipment improvements vehiclesTotal Group£000£000£000£000£000£000CostAt 1 January 2023 15,044 1,508 12,416 1,117 2,734 32,819Additions – 429 1,579 10 – 2,018Leased asset additions – – – – 362 362Disposal (120) – – – – (120)At 31 December 2023 14,924 1,937 13,995 1,127 3,096 35,079DepreciationAt 1 January 2023 (7,273) (1,021) (11,257) (787) (2,052) (22,390)Charge for year (1,774) (187) (884) (75) (504) (3,424)Disposal 120 – – – – 120At 31 December 2023 (8,927) (1,208) (12,141) (862) (2,556) (25,694)Net book valueAt 31 December 2023 5,997 729 1,854 265 540 9,385At 31 December 2022 7,771 487 1,159 330 682 10,429 Office equipment, Land & fixtures & Computer Leasehold Motor buildings\* fittings equipment improvements vehicles\* Total Group£000£000£000£000£000£000CostAt 1 January 2022 14,834 1,080 12,587 1,115 2,389 32,005Additions – 488 347 – – 835Leased asset additions 765 – – – 343 1,108Disposal (555) (60) (518) 2 2 (1,129)At 31 December 2022 15,044 1,508 12,416 1,117 2,734 32,819DepreciationAt 1 January 2022 (6,106) (947) (10,721) (710) (1,531) (20,015)Charge for year (1,722) (134) (1,054) (75) (519) (3,504)Disposal 555 60 518 (2) (2) 1,129At 31 December 2022 (7,273) (1,021) (11,257) (787) (2,052) (22,390)Net book valueAt 31 December 2022 7,771 487 1,159 330 682 10,429At 31 December 2021 8,728 133 1,866 405 858 11,990 \* Land & Buildings and Motor Vehicles are Right of Use assets held under leasing arrangements accounted for in accordance with IFRS16. Further disclosure is in Note 19. The Company had no property, plant or equipment in either year. ![]() 152 | Rightmove plc | Annual Report 2023 13 Intangible assets Computer Customer Goodwill software relationships Total Group£000£000£000£000CostAt 1 January 2023 16,516 8,563 4,521 29,600Additions – 1,328 – 1,328At 31 December 2023 16,516 9,891 4,521 30,928AmortisationAt 1 January 2023 – (6,056) (1,470) (7,526)Charge for year – (1,109) (451) (1,560)At 31 December 2023 – (7,165) (1,921) (9,086)Net book valueAt 31 December 2023 16,516 2,726 2,600 21,842At 31 December 2022 16,516 2,507 3,051 22,074 Computer Customer Goodwill software relationships Total Group £000£000£000£000CostAt 1 January 2022 16,516 7,386 4,521 28,423Additions – 2,015 – 2,015Disposal – (838) – (838)At 31 December 2022 16,516 8,563 4,521 29,600AmortisationAt 1 January 2022 – (6,264) (1,018) (7,282)Charge for year – (630) (452) (1,082)Disposed in the year – 838 – 838At 31 December 2022 – (6,056) (1,470) (7,526)Net book valueAt 31 December 2022 16,516 2,507 3,051 22,074At 31 December 2021 16,516 1,122 3,503 21,141 The Company had no intangible assets in either year. Impairment testing for cash-generating units containing goodwill The goodwill comprises £14.1m recognised on the acquisition of Rightmove Landlord & Tenant Services Limited in 2019; a further £1.7m arising on the acquisition of The Outside View Analytics Limited in May 2016; and £0.7m of purchased goodwill arising pre-transition to IFRS. Management performed the annual impairment test. For the purposes of impairment testing, goodwill is allocated to the Group’s lowest cash generating unit which is the Agency only business unit. The calculations used in the cash flow projections are based on the latest three-year business plan which includes revenue per business unit, which has been updated to reflect the most recent developments as at the reporting date. An allocation of costs is then estimated for impairment testing purposes in accordance with IAS 36. The impairment test looked at cash flows over the coming five years. The key assumptions used for modelling purposes were the terminal growth rate of 2% (2022: 5%) for years outside of the three-year business plan and the pre-tax discount rate used of 10% (2022: 10%). The result of the impairment testing is that the recoverable amount was significantly higher than the carrying amount and there is no impairment. This result is not sensitive to any reasonable possible changes in the key assumptions used. Notes continued ![]() Rightmove plc | Annual Report 2023 | 153 STRATEGIC REPORT GOVERNANCE FINANCIAL STATEMENTS 14 Investments The subsidiaries of the Group as at 31 December 2023 were as follows: Country of Class of Trading Company Nature of businessincorporation HoldingsharesstatusRightmove Group Limited Online property advertising England and Wales 100% Ordinary TradingRightmove Financial Services Limited Online rental services England and Wales 100% Ordinary TradingRightmove Landlord and Tenant Rental referencing and England and Wales 100% Ordinary TradingServices Limitedinsurance services Alll the above subsidiaries are included in the Group consolidated financial statements. The registered office for all subsidiaries of the Group is 2 Caldecotte Lake Business Park, Caldecotte Lake Drive, Caldecotte, Milton Keynes, MK7 8LE. 2023 2022 Company£000 £000Investment in subsidiary undertakingsAt 1 January 563,896 560,740Additions – subsidiary share-based payments charge 4,243 3,156At 31 December 568,139 563,896 In 2008, the Company became the holding company of Rightmove Group Limited (formerly Rightmove plc, Company no. 03997679) and its subsidiaries pursuant to a Scheme of Arrangement under s425 of the Companies Act 2006, by way of a share-for-share exchange. Following the Scheme of Arrangement, the Company underwent a court-approved capital reduction. The consolidated assets and liabilities of the Group immediately after the Scheme were substantially the same as the consolidated assets and liabilities of the Group immediately prior to the Scheme. Following the capital reconstruction in 2008, all employees’ share-based incentives were transferred to the new holding company, Rightmove plc. In addition, certain Directors’ contracts of employment were transferred from Rightmove Group Limited to Rightmove plc, whilst all other employees remained employed by its subsidiaries. Accordingly, the share-based payments charge has been split between the Company and its subsidiaries with £4,243,000 (2022: £3,156,000) being recognised in the Company accounts as a capital contribution to its subsidiaries. The Company’s investment in its subsidiaries has been assessed for impairment. Management compared the carrying amount of the investment to the market capitalisation of the Group, as Rightmove Group Limited contains 99% of the Group’s trading operations. There was no impairment as at 31 December 2023 – the market capitalisation of the Group was more than seven times greater than the Company’s investment in its subsidiaries. 15 Deferred tax asset and deferred tax liability Net deferred tax position Deferred tax assets and liabilities are offset when they relate to income taxes levied by the same tax authority and the Group intends to settle its current tax assets and liabilities on a net basis. Group Group Company Company2023 2022 2023 2022 £000 £000£000 £000Deferred tax asset 3,145 2,354 903 478Deferred tax liability (762) (894) – –At 31 December 2,383 1,460 903 478 ![]() 154 | Rightmove plc | Annual Report 2023 15 Deferred tax asset and deferred tax liability continued The deferred tax asset and deferred tax liability are attributable to the following: Deferred tax asset Group CompanyProperty, Share-based plant and Share-based incentives equipment Provisions Total incentives £000£000£000 £000£000At 1 January 2023 1,982 235 137 2,354 478Adjustment in respect of prior year – 313 64 377 –Recognised in income 688 (382) 5 311 340Recognised directly in equity 103 – – 103 85At 31 December 2023 2,773 166 206 3,145 903At 1 January 2022 2,576 419 140 3,135 481Adjustment in respect of prior year – – 77 77 –Recognised in income 654 (184) (80) 390 139Recognised directly in equity (1,248) – – (1,248) (142)At 31 December 2022 1,982 235 137 2,354 478 The increase in the deferred tax asset at 31 December 2023 is mostly driven by the increase in the deferred tax in relation to the share-based incentives as a tax deduction is available when the options are exercised equal to the intrinsic value of the options at the date of exercise, which reflected an increase in the share price during the year to £5.76 from £5.11 in 2022 (as well as a small increase in the rate at which deferred tax was recognised). The deferred tax balances relating to property, plant and equipment reflect timing differences between accounting depreciation and tax depreciation. These temporary differences are expected to unwind over the next three to five years. Deferred tax liabilityIntangibles 2023Intangibles 2022Group£000£000At 1 January (894) (966)Prior year adjustment (52) 7Recognised in income 184 65At 31 December (762) (894) The decrease in the deferred tax liability as at 31 December 2023 is due to amortisation. The timing differences are expected to unwind within the next five years. The deferred tax as at 31 December 2023 has been calculated at 25% (2022: an average rate of 24%) which represents the average rate at which the assets and liabilities are expected to reverse in the future, based on substantively enacted UK tax rates. Notes continued ![]() Rightmove plc | Annual Report 2023 | 155 STRATEGIC REPORT GOVERNANCE FINANCIAL STATEMENTS 16 Trade and other receivables 2023 2022 Group Note£000 £000Trade receivables 25,740 21,754Less provision for impairment of trade receivables 24 (1,249) (845)Net trade receivables 24,491 20,909Prepayments 6,259 5,243Interest receivable 405 48Other debtors 319 41431,474 26,614 Exposure to credit and currency risks and expected credit losses relating to trade and other receivables are disclosed in Note 24. The Company had no trade and other receivables in either year. 17 Cash and depositsGroup Company2023 2022 2023 2022 £000 £000£000 £000Cash and cash equivalents 33,641 35,089 100 –Money market deposits 5,224 5,047 – –38,865 40,136 100 – Cash balances with an original maturity of less than three months were held in current accounts during the year and attracted interest at a weighted average rate of 3.4% (2022: 0.9%). The cash and cash equivalents balance included £100,000 (2022: £237,000) which is restricted to use in accordance with the deeds of the EBT. The cash and cash equivalents balance included £5,183,573 (2022: £5,040,035) which is held in a 30-day deposit account. Money market deposits with an original maturity of more than three months and less than a year attracted interest at a weighted average rate of 3.4% (2022: 0.9%). The Company had cash and cash equivalents at the balance sheet date of £100,000 (2022: £408) in relation to monies held by the employee benefit trust (EBT) which was transferred to the Company, from Rightmove Group Limited, on 1 January 2023 (Note 2). The main trading entity is Rightmove Group Limited which generates the group cash inflows, directs payments to suppliers and returns excess to shareholders in line with the capital returns policy and decides on timing of these transactions. These transactions are paid from Rightmove Group Limited as a result of the company having insufficient cash. On this basis, returns to shareholders, including both dividends and share buybacks, are not disclosed on the Company cashflow. 18 Trade and other payablesGroup Company2023 2022 2023 2022 £000 £000£000 £000Trade payables 2,057 1,155 – –Trade accruals 7,662 6,147 1,175 935Other creditors 1,510 1,284 – –Other taxation and social security 13,508 12,288 – –Inter-group payables – – 35,986 26,71324,737 20,874 37,161 27,648 ![]() 156 | Rightmove plc | Annual Report 2023 19 Leases The Group leases assets, including land and buildings and motor vehicles, that are held within property, plant and equipment (Note 12). Information about leases for which the Group is a lessee is presented below. 2023 2022 Analysis of property, plant and equipment between owned and leased assets£000 £000Net book value of property, plant and equipment owned 2,848 1,976Net book value of leased right of use assets 6,537 8,4539,385 10,429 Property Vehicles Total Net book value of right of use assets£000£000 £000At 1 January 2023 7,771 682 8,453Additions – 362 362Depreciation charge (1,774) (504) (2,278)At 31 December 2023 5,997 540 6,537At 1 January 2022 8,728 858 9,586Additions 765 343 1,108Depreciation charge (1,722) (519) (2,241)At 31 December 2022 7,771 682 8,453 2023 2022 Lease liabilities included in the statement of financial position£000 £000Current 2,291 2,327Non-current 5,112 7,2427,403 9,569 2023 2022 Amounts recognised in income statement£000 £000Interest on lease liabilities 192 223Expenses relating to short-term leases 255 281Expenses relating to low-value asset leases (excluding short-term leases of low-value assets) 24 28471 532 2023 2022 Amount recognised in the statement of cash flows £000 £000Total cash outflow for all leases 2,996 2,940 Notes continued ![]() Rightmove plc | Annual Report 2023 | 157 STRATEGIC REPORT GOVERNANCE FINANCIAL STATEMENTS 19 Leases continued Reconciliation of movement of lease liabilities to cashflows 2023 2022 £000 £000At 1 January 9,569 11,009Payment of lease liabilities – capital (2,530) (2,391)Payment of lease liabilities – interest (187) (232)Total changes arising from cash flows (2,717) (2,623)New leases 362 962Interest 192 223Other movements (3) (2)Total liability relating to other changes 551 1,183Balance as at 31 December 7,403 9,569 20 Provisions The dilapidations provision is in respect of any of the Group’s leased properties where the Group has obligations to make good dilapidations. The non-current liabilities are estimated to be payable over periods from one to five years. Total £000At 1 January 2023 829Utilised during the year –Released during the year –Charged in the year 12At 31 December 2023 841Current –Non-current 841 The Company had no provisions in either year. 21 Share capital 2023 2022Amount Number Amount Number £000 of Shares£000 of SharesIn issue ordinary sharesAt 1 January 838 837,401,085 860 859,678,232Purchase and cancellation of shares (24) (23,951,466) (22) (22,277,147)At 31 December 814 813,449,619 838 837,401,085 All issued shares are fully paid. The nominal value of a share is 0.1p. The holders of ordinary shares are entitled to receive dividends as declared from time to time and are entitled to one vote per ordinary share at general meetings of the Company. Included within shares in issue at 31 December 2023 are 1,029,919 (2022: 1,375,963) shares held by the EBT, 1,167,227 (2022: 930,592) shares held by the SIP and 11,709,197 (2022: 12,185,222) shares held in Treasury. ![]() 158 | Rightmove plc | Annual Report 2023 21 Share capital continued In June 2007, the Company commenced a share buyback program to purchase its own ordinary shares. The total number of shares bought back in 2023 was 23,951,466 (2022: 22,277,147) shares representing 2.9% (2022: 2.7%) of the ordinary shares in issue (excluding shares held in treasury). All the shares bought back in both years were cancelled. The shares were acquired on the open market at a total consideration (excluding costs) of £130,000,000 (2022: £129,981,000). The maximum and minimum prices paid were £5.97 (2022: £6.89) and £4.73 (2022: £4.39) per share respectively. The average price paid was £5.43 (2022: £5.83). Costs incurred on purchase of own shares in relation to stamp duty charges and broker expenses for share buybacks were £910,000 (2022: £910,000). Costs incurred on purchase of own shares in relation to stamp duty charges and broker expenses for the SIP award were £12,000 (2022: £23,000). 22 Reconciliation of movement in capital and reserves Own shares held – £000EBT shares SIP shares Treasury reserve reserve shares Total £000£000£000£000Own shares held as at 1 January 2022 (1,552) (4,107) (5,929) (11,588)Shares purchased for share incentive plans (2,216) (682) – (2,898)Shares transferred to SIP 555 (555) – –Share-based incentives exercised in the year 56 289 140 485SIP releases in the year – 103 – 103Own shares held as at 31 December 2022 (3,157) (4,952) (5,789) (13,898)Own shares held as at 1 January 2023 (3,157) (4,952) (5,789) (13,898)Shares purchased for share incentive plans (725) (1,273) – (1,998)Shares transferred to SIP 725 (725) – –Share-based incentives exercised in the year 1,297 557 230 2,084SIP releases in the year – 72 – 72Own shares held as at 31 December 2023 (1,860) (6,321) (5,559) (13,740) Own shares held – number of shares EBT shares SIP shares Treasury reserve reserve shares TotalOwn shares held as at 1 January 2022 1,158,418 787,000 12,480,472 14,425,890Shares purchased for share incentive plans 432,254 128,774 – 561,028Shares transferred to SIP (99,476) 99,476 – –Share-based incentives exercised in the year (115,233) (63,893) (295,250) (474,376)SIP releases in the year – (20,765) – (20,765)Own shares held as at 31 December 2022 1,375,963 930,592 12,185,222 14,491,777Own shares held as at 1 January 2023 1,375,963 930,592 12,185,222 14,491,777Shares purchased for share incentive plans 127,240 226,335 – 353,575Shares transferred to SIP (127,240) 127,240 – –Share-based incentives exercised in the year (346,044) (104,740) (476,025) (926,809)SIP releases in the year – (12,200) – (12,200)Own shares held as at 31 December 2023 1,029,919 1,167,227 11,709,197 13,906,343 Notes continued ![]() Rightmove plc | Annual Report 2023 | 159 STRATEGIC REPORT GOVERNANCE FINANCIAL STATEMENTS 22 Reconciliation of movement in capital and reserves continued (a) EBT shares reserve (Group) This reserve represents the cost of own shares acquired by the EBT less any exercises of share-based incentives. At 31 December 2023, the EBT held 1,029,919 (2022: 1,375,963) ordinary shares in the Company, representing 0.1% (2022: 0.2%) of the ordinary shares in issue (excluding shares held in treasury). The market value of the shares held in the EBT at 31 December 2023 was £5,928,000 (2022: £7,031,000). (b) SIP shares reserve (Group and Company) In November 2014, the Company established the Rightmove Share Incentive Plan Trust (SIP). This reserve represents the cost of acquiring shares less any exercises or releases of SIP awards. Employees of Rightmove Group Limited and Rightmove plc were offered 600 free shares with effect from 20 December 2023 (2022: 500), subject to a three-year service period. During the year 104,740 shares were exercised (2022: 63,893) and 12,200 shares (2022: 20,765) were released by the SIP in relation to good leavers and retirees. 127,240 shares were transferred to the SIP reserve from the EBT (2022: 99,476). At 31 December 2023, the SIP held 1,167,227 (2022: 930,592) ordinary shares in the Company, representing 0.1% (2022: 0.1%) of the ordinary shares in issue (excluding shares held in treasury). The market value of the shares held in the SIP at 31 December 2023 was £6,718,000 (2022: £4,755,000). (c) Treasury shares (Group and Company) This represents the cost of acquiring shares held in treasury less any exercises of share-based incentives. These shares were bought in 2008 at an average price of 47.60 pence and may be used to satisfy certain share-based incentive awards. At 31 December 2023, the Treasury held 11,709,197 of the ordinary shares in issue. The market value of the shares held in treasury at 31 December 2023 was £67,398,000 (2022: £62,266,000). Other reserves Other reserves of £480,000 (2022: £456,000) represents the Capital Redemption Reserve in respect of own shares bought back and cancelled. The movement of £24,000 (2022: £22,000) is the nominal value of ordinary shares bought back and cancelled during the year. Details of share buybacks and cancellation of shares are included in Note 21. Retained earnings The loss on the exercise of share-based incentives of £1,562,000 (2022: £106,000) is the difference between the weighted average value that the own shares, held individually by the EBT, SIP and treasury, were originally acquired at and the exercise price at which share-based incentives were exercised or released during the year. Company Reverse acquisition reserve This reserve resulted from the acquisition of Rightmove Group Limited by the Company and represents the difference between the value of the shares acquired at 28 January 2008 and the nominal value of the shares issued. Other reserves Awards relating to share-based incentives made to Rightmove Group Limited employees have been treated as a deemed capital contribution (Note 14). The principal movement in other reserves for the year comprises £4,243,000 (2022: £3,156,000) in respect of the share-based incentives charge for employees of Rightmove Group Limited. Other reserves also include £480,000 (2022: £456,000) of Capital Redemption Reserve. A movement of £24,000 (2022: £22,000) has been recorded in relation to the nominal value of ordinary shares cancelled during the year. ![]() 160 | Rightmove plc | Annual Report 2023 23 Share-based payments The Group and Company operate a number of share-based incentive schemes for Executive Directors and employees. All share-based incentives are subject to service conditions. Such conditions are not taken into account in the fair value of the service received. The fair value of services received in return for share-based incentives is measured by reference to the fair value of share-based incentives granted. The Group recognised a total share-based payments charge for the year of £5,886,000 (2022: £4,179,000) with a Company charge for the year of £1,644,000 (2022: £879,000), as set out below. The NI charge for the year, relating to all awards, was £651,000 (2022: a credit of £110,000). The share price at 31 December 2023 was £5.76 (2022: £5.11). The total charge in relation to share-based payments was £6,537,000 (2022: £4,069,000): Group Company2023 2022 2023 2022 £000 £000£000 £000Sharesave Plan 382 336 2 7Performance Share Plan (PSP) 684 464 684 464Deferred Share Bonus Plan (DSP) 3,197 2,356 955 401Share Incentive Plan (SIP) 1,068 830 3 7Restricted Share Plan (RSP) 555 193 – –Total share-based payments charge 5,886 4,179 1,644 879NI on applicable share-based incentives at 13.8% 651 (110) 239 (33)Total charge in relation to share-based payments 6,537 4,069 1,883 846 Sharesave Plan The Group operates an HMRC Approved Sharesave Plan under which employees of Rightmove plc and Rightmove Group Limited are granted an option to purchase ordinary shares in the Company, at up to 20% less than the market price at invitation, in three years’ time, dependent on their entering into a contract to make monthly contributions into a savings account over the relevant period. These savings are used to fund the option exercise. No performance criteria are applied to the exercise of Sharesave options. The assumptions used in the measurement of the fair value at grant date of the Sharesave Plan are as follows: Share price at Exercise Risk free Dividend Fair value grant date price Option life rate yield per option Grant date (pence) (pence) (years) (%) (%) (pence)30 September 2020 626.8 513.0 3.0 0.0 0.5 167.11 October 2021 682.6 574.0 3.0 0.8 1.1 184.030 September 2022 482.2 482.0 3.0 5.2 1.8 130.029 September 2023 562.2 448.0 3.0 4.7 1.6 203.0 The requirement that an employee must save in order to purchase shares under the Sharesave Plan is a non-vesting condition. This feature has been incorporated into the fair value at grant date by applying a discount to the valuation obtained from the Black Scholes pricing model. The discount has been determined by estimating the probability that the employee will stop saving based on expected future trends in the share price and past employee behaviour. Notes continued ![]() Rightmove plc | Annual Report 2023 | 161 STRATEGIC REPORT GOVERNANCE FINANCIAL STATEMENTS 23 Share-based payments continued 2023 2022 Weighted average Weighted average exercise price exercise price Group Number (pence) Number (pence)Outstanding at 1 January 779,826 498.9 663,568 497.9Granted 373,861 448.2 329,630 482.0Lapsed or cancelled (112,451) 516.6 (41,739) 544.4Forfeited (57,649) 497.5 (59,391) 514.3Exercised (138,868) 440.2 (112,242) 418.2Outstanding at 31 December 844,719 483.8 779,826 300.9Exercisable at 31 December 129,754 510.5 126,169 428.7 The weighted average market value per ordinary share for Sharesave options exercised in 2023 was 559.3 pence (2022: 538.3 pence). The Sharesave options outstanding at 31 December 2023 have an exercise price in the range of 430.0 pence to 574.0 pence (2022: 389.0 pence to 574.0 pence) and a weighted average contractual life of 2.2 years (2022: 2.1 years). Performance Share Plan (PSP) The PSP permits awards of nil cost options or contingent shares which will only vest in the event of prior satisfaction of a performance condition. 325,798 PSP awards were made on 10 March 2023 (the grant date) subject to Earnings Per Share (EPS) and Total Shareholders Return (TSR) performance. Performance will be measured over three financial years (1 January 2023 – 31 December 2025). The vesting on 10 March 2026 (vesting date) of 50% of the 2023 PSP award will be dependent on a relative TSR performance condition measured over the three-year performance period, with the remaining 50% dependent on the satisfaction of an EPS growth target measured over the three-year performance period. The PSP awards have been valued using the Monte Carlo model for the TSR element and the Black Scholes model for the EPS element. The resulting share-based payments charge is being spread evenly over the three-year period between grant date and vesting date. PSP award holders are entitled to receive dividends accruing between the grant date and the vesting date and this value will be delivered in shares. The assumptions used in the measurement of the fair value at grant date of the PSP awards are as follows: Share price at Exercise Expected Risk free Dividend Fair value grant date price volatility Option life rate yield per option Grant date (pence) (pence) (%) (years) (%) (%) (pence)(1)3 March 2021 (TSR dependent)584.0 0.0 28.1 3.0 0.4 0.0 176.0(1)3 March 2021 (EPS dependent)584.0 0.0 0.0 3.0 0.0 0.0 492.0(1)2 March 2022 (TSR dependent)684.6 0.0 30.3 3.0 1.7 0.0 247.4(1)2 March 2022 (EPS dependent)684.6 0.0 0.0 3.0 0.0 0.0 582.2(1)10 March 2023 (TSR dependent)540.8 0.0 32.9 3.0 4.3 0.0 227.8(1)10 March 2023 (EPS dependent)540.8 0.0 0.0 3.0 0.0 0.0 460.0 (1) For details of TSR and EPS performance conditions refer to the Directors’ Remuneration Report. Expected volatility, which only impacts the fair value of the TSR element of the award, is estimated by considering historic average share price volatility at the grant date. The risk-free rate is only used as an input to calculate the fair value of the TSR element of the award. The PSP awards accrue dividends so there is no dividend yield used as an input to calculate the fair value. A discount rate of 15% (2022:15.0%) was applied to the fair value at grant date to reflect the two-year holding period that applies post the vesting period and the lack of liquidity during that period. ![]() 162 | Rightmove plc | Annual Report 2023 23 Share-based payments continued 2023 2022 GroupNumber NumberOutstanding at 1 January 683,330 768,076Granted 325,798 241,089Dividends awarded 1,110 1,649Forfeited (171,458) (310,746)Exercised (88,605) (16,738)Outstanding at 31 December 750,175 683,330Exercisable at 31 December 21,487 52,436 The weighted average market value per ordinary share for options exercised in 2023 was 577.8 pence (2022: 655.4 pence). The weighted average exercise price was nil in both years. The PSP awards outstanding at 31 December 2023 have a weighted average contractual life of 1.3 years (2022: 1.3 years). Deferred Share Bonus Plan (DSP) In March 2009 a DSP was established which allows Executive Directors and other selected senior management the opportunity to earn a bonus determined as a percentage of base salary settled in nil cost deferred shares. The award of shares under the plan is contingent on the satisfaction of pre-set internal targets relating to underlying drivers of revenue growth (the performance period). The right to the shares is deferred for two years from the date of the award (the vesting period) and potentially forfeitable during that period should the employee leave employment. The deferred share awards were valued using the Black Scholes model and the resulting share-based payments charge is being spread evenly over the combined performance period and vesting period of the shares, being three years. The inputs used in the measurement of the fair value of the deferred share awards – which are initially calculated at the date on which the potential DSP bonus is communicated to Directors and senior management (the grant date) and are then updated at the date of the actual award – are as follows: (3) Share price at Exercise Expected Dividend Fair value award date price term yield per option Grant date Award date (pence) (pence) (years) (%) (pence)4 March 2020 3 March 2021 584.0 0.0 3.0 1.4 568.03 March 2021 2 March 2022 684.6 0.0 3.0 1.2 668.0(1)2 March 2022 10 March 2023540.8 0.0 3.0 1.5 524.0(2)10 March 202410 March 2023540.8 0.0 3.0 1.6 515.0 (1) Following the achievement of 71% of the 2022 internal performance targets, 545,770 nil cost shares were awarded to executives and senior management on 10 March 2023 (the award date) with the right to exercise the shares deferred until March 2025. (2) The share price and fair value are disclosed at grant date until the point that the award is made on 10 March 2024, at which point the valuation will be updated. (3) Based on the 2023 internal performance targets, the Remuneration Committee determined that 79% of the maximum award in respect of the year will be made in March 2024. The number of shares to be awarded will be determined based on the share price at the award date in March 2024. 20232022 GroupNumberNumberOutstanding at 1 January 870,666 697,179Awarded 545,770 505,524Forfeited – (40,675)Exercised (387,420) (291,362)Outstanding at 31 December 1,029,016 870,666Exercisable at 31 December – 78,643 Notes continued ![]() Rightmove plc | Annual Report 2023 | 163 STRATEGIC REPORT GOVERNANCE FINANCIAL STATEMENTS 23 Share-based payments continued The weighted average market value per ordinary share for deferred shares exercised in 2023 was 563.0 pence (2022: 581.7 pence). The weighted average exercise price was nil in both years. The DSP awards outstanding at 31 December 2023 have a weighted average contractual life of 1.4 years (2022: 0.8 years). Share Incentive Plan In 2014, the Group established the Rightmove Share Incentive Plan Trust (SIP). Employees in the Group were offered 600 shares on 20 December 2023 (2022: 500 shares) subject to a three-year service period (the vesting period). The SIP awards have been valued using the Black Scholes model and the resulting share-based payments charge spread evenly over the vesting period of three years. The SIP shareholders are entitled to dividends paid in cash over the vesting period. No performance criteria are applied to the exercise of SIP options. The assumptions used in the measurement of the fair value at grant date of the SIP awards are as follows: Share price at Exercise Dividend Fair value grant date price Option life yield per option Grant date (pence) (pence) (years) (%) (pence)20 December 2020 651.6 0.0 3.0 0.0 651.620 December 2021 769.2 0.0 3.0 0.0 769.221 December 2022 526.8 0.0 3.0 0.0 526.820 December 2023 563.8 0.0 3.0 0.0 563.8 The SIP awards accrue dividends, so there is no dividend yield input into the fair valuation calculation. 2023 2022 GroupNumber NumberOutstanding at 1 January 913,440 759,050Granted 438,000 334,000Forfeited (75,750) (93,250)Exercised (115,990) (86,360)Outstanding at 31 December 1,159,700 913,440Exercisable at 31 December 276,900 213,000 The weighted average market value per ordinary share for SIP awards released and exercised in 2023 was 562.67 pence (2022: 554.1 pence). The weighted average exercise price in both years was nil. The SIP options outstanding at 31 December 2023 have a weighted average contractual life of 2.3 years (2022: 2.3 years). Restricted Share Plan (RSP) The RSP awards nil cost deferred shares to selected senior management, subject only to service conditions which typically vary between one to four years’ service. Participants are not entitled to receive dividends on these awards. RSP awards have been valued using the Black Scholes model and the resulting share-based payments charge is being spread evenly over the vesting period of the shares. The assumptions used in the measurement of the fair value at grant date of the RSP awards are as follows: Share price at Exercise Dividend Fair value grant date price Option life yield per option Grant date (pence) (pence) (years) (%) (pence)20 September 2022 586.0 0.0 3.0 1.4 562.020 September 2022 586.0 0.0 4.0 1.5 553.020 December 2023 563.8 0.0 1.5 1.7 549.020 December 2023 563.8 0.0 3.0 1.6 536.0 ![]() 164 | Rightmove plc | Annual Report 2023 23 Share-based payments continued 2023 2022 GroupNumberNumber Outstanding at 1 January 544,101 211,323Awarded 541,664 332,778Forfeited – –Exercised (211,323) –Outstanding at 31 December 874,442 544,101Exercisable at 31 December – 211,323 The weighted average market value per ordinary share for RSP awards exercised in 2023 was 530.9 pence. The RSP options outstanding at 31 December 2023 have a weighted average contractual life of 2.5 years (2022: 3.4 years). 24 Financial instruments Credit risk The carrying amount of financial assets represents the maximum credit exposure. The maximum exposure to credit risk at the reporting date was: 2023 2022 Group Note£000£000Net trade receivables 16 24,491 20,909Accrued interest receivable 16 405 48Contract assets 4 759 454Other debtors 16 319 414Cash and cash equivalents 17 33,641 35,089Money market deposits 17 5,224 5,04764,839 61,961 The trade receivables balance is spread across a large number of different customers with no single debtor representing more than 2% of the total balance due (2022: 4%). Notes continued ![]() Rightmove plc | Annual Report 2023 | 165 STRATEGIC REPORT GOVERNANCE FINANCIAL STATEMENTS 24 Financial instruments continued The maximum exposure to credit risk for trade receivables at the reporting date by geographic region was: 2023 2022 Group Note£000£000UK 24,480 20,880Rest of the world 11 2916 24,491 20,909 The maximum exposure to credit risk for trade receivables at the reporting date by type of customer was: 2023 2022 Group Note£000£000Property products 20,390 18,678Other 4,101 2,23116 24,491 20,909 The Group’s most significant customer accounts for £499,000 (2022: £745,000) of net trade receivables as at 31 December 2023. Expected credit loss assessment For the Group’s smaller Agency and Overseas customers, expected credit losses are measured using a provisioning matrix based on the reason the trade receivable is past due or, for current debtors at risk of recovery. The provision matrix rates are based on actual credit loss experience over the past three years and adjusted, when required, to take into account current macro-economic factors. For all other customers the Group applies experienced credit judgement to assess the expected credit loss, whilst considering account external ratings, financial statements and other available information. Overall, the impact on credit risk is minimal due to most customers paying in advance on a subscription basis. The following table provides information about the exposure to credit risk and expected credit losses for trade receivables, including contract assets, from individual customers as at 31 December 2023. The weighted-average loss rate in 2023 increased to 4.7% (2022: 3.8%) reflecting the uncertain property market during 2023 and the challenges faced by some customers. Gross carrying Weighted-amount Loss allowance 2023average loss rate£000£000 Credit-impairedCurrent 1.1% 16,140 (177) NoPast due 1 – 30 days 2.2% 4,677 (101) NoPast due 31 – 60 days 6.5% 1,612 (104) NoPast due 61 – 90 days 8.4% 738 (62) NoMore than 91 days past due 24.0% 3,332 (801) No26,499 (1,249) Gross carrying Loss Weighted-average amount allowance 2022loss rate£000 £000 Credit-impairedCurrent 0.4% 14,367 (57) NoPast due 1 – 30 days 1.3% 4,430 (57) NoPast due 31 – 60 days 6.0% 1,378 (82) NoPast due 61 – 90 days 9.7% 511 (50) NoMore than 91 days past due 39.3% 1,523 (599) No22,209 (845) ![]() 166 | Rightmove plc | Annual Report 2023 24 Financial instruments continued The movement in the allowance for impairment in respect of trade receivables during the year was as follows:2023 2022 Group Note£000£000At 1 January 845 715Charged during the year 1,712 733Utilised during the year (1,308) (603)At 31 December 16 1,249 845 The allowance accounts in respect of trade receivables are used to record impairment losses unless the Group is satisfied that no recovery of the amount owing is possible; at that point the amounts considered irrecoverable are written off against the financial asset directly. The Company had no exposure to credit risk in either year. Liquidity risk The contractual maturities of undiscounted financial liabilities, including undiscounted estimated interest payments, were: Carrying Contractual 6 months amount cash flows or less Group£000£000£000At 31 December 2023 Trade payables being non-derivative financial liabilities 2,057 (2,057) (2,057)Trade accruals being non-derivative financial liabilities 7,662 (6,978) (6,978)Lease liabilities 7,403 (7,830) (1,293)Total 17,122 (16,865) (10,328)At 31 December 2022 Trade payables being non-derivative financial liabilities 1,155 (1,155) (1,155)Trade accruals being non-derivative financial liabilities 6,147 (5,769) (5,769)Lease liabilities 9,569 (10,080) (1,279)Total 16,871 (17,004) (8,203) The Company had no derivative financial liabilities in either year. It is not expected that the cash flows included in the maturity analysis could occur earlier or at significantly different amounts and all payables are due within six months of the balance sheet date. Currency risk During 2023 all the Group’s sales and more than 97.0% (2022 97.1%) of the Group’s purchases were sterling denominated and accordingly it has no significant currency risk. Interest rate risk The Group has exposure to interest rate risk on its cash and cash equivalent balances and money market deposit balances. As at 31 December 2023 the Group had total cash of £33,641,000 (2022: £35,089,000) and money market deposits of £5,224,000 (2022: £5,047,000). Fair values The fair values of all financial instruments in both years are equal to the carrying values. Notes continued ![]() Rightmove plc | Annual Report 2023 | 167 STRATEGIC REPORT GOVERNANCE FINANCIAL STATEMENTS 25 Related party disclosures Inter-group transactions with subsidiaries Under the inter-group loan agreement dated 30 January 2008, Rightmove Group Limited settles all expenses on behalf of the Company, including dividends paid to shareholders and share buybacks and related costs. During the year, the Company was charged interest of £2,096,000 (2022: £226,000) under this agreement and at 31 December 2023 the unsecured inter-group loan balance was £35,986,000 (2022: £26,713,000). The dividends declared and paid by Rightmove Group Limited to the Company was £202,432,000 (2022: £197,982,000). Rightmove Group Limited declared a dividend in specie of £nil (2022: £555,000), representing the cost of the SIP shares transferred from the EBT to the SIP during the year. On 1 January 2023 the sponsorship of the EBT was transferred from Rightmove Group Limited, to the Company, via a dividend in specie of £3,156,000 (Note 2). The Company grants share options to employees of Rightmove Group Limited. This transaction is recognised as an increase in the carrying value of the investment of Rightmove Group Limited (refer Note 14). Directors’ transactions There were no transactions with Directors in either year other than those disclosed in the Directors’ Remuneration Report. Information on the emoluments of the Directors who served during the year, together with information regarding the beneficial interest of the Directors in the ordinary shares of the Company, is included in the Directors’ Remuneration Report. During the year, the Directors in office in total had gains of £633,000 (2022: £223,000) arising on the exercise of share-based incentive awards. The total share-based payments charge in relation to the Directors in office was £1,644,000 (2022: £879,000). Key management personnel The actual remuneration of the Directors, who are the key management personnel of the Group, is disclosed in the Directors’ Remuneration report. The contractual employee benefits are set out below in aggregate for each of the categories specified in IAS 24 Related Party Disclosures. 2023 2022 £000£000Short-term employee benefits 2,355 1,940Post-employment benefits 55 28Share-based payments 1,644 879 26 Contingent liabilities The Group and the Company had no contingent liabilities in either year. 27 Subsequent events On 1 February 2024, the Group acquired 100% equity capital and voting rights of HomeViews Platform Limited (HomeViews) for a total cash consideration of £8m. HomeViews is the UK’s biggest community of verified resident reviews of property developments, with a particular focus on the Build to Rent sector. Due to the timing of the acquisition being after 31 December 2023, the results of HomeViews are not included in our financial statement for the year ended 31 December 2023 and the acquisition accounting has not yet been completed. In line with IFRS 3, the price accounting for the acquisition will be finalised within 12 months of the acquisition date. Other than the above transaction, there were no other subsequent events, between 31 December 2023 and the reporting date, in either the Company or Group. ![]() 168 | Rightmove plc | Annual Report 2023 (1) Shareholder enquiries The Company’s registrar is Link Group. They will be pleased to deal with any questions regarding your shareholding or dividends. Please notify them of your change of address or other personal information. Their contact details are: Shareholder helpline: 0371 664 0300 calls are charged at the standard geographic rate and will vary by provider. Calls outside the United Kingdom will be charged at the applicable international rate. Lines are open between 09:00 - 17:30, Monday to Friday excluding public holidays in England and Wales. Email: shareholderenquiries@linkgroup.co.uk Signal Shares shareholder portal: www.signalshares.com Address: Link Group Central Square 29 Wellington Street Leeds LS1 4DL Shareholders can register online to view their holdings using the shareholder portal, a service offered by Link Group at www.signalshares.com. The shareholder portal is an online service enabling you to quickly and easily access and maintain your shareholding online – reducing the need for paperwork and providing 24-hour access for your convenience. You may: • View your holding balance and get an indicative valuation • View the dividend payments you have received • Cast your proxy vote on the AGM resolutions online • Update your address • Register and change bank mandate instructions • Elect to receive shareholder communications electronically • Access a wide range of shareholder information and download shareholder forms. Contacts Chief Executive Officer: Johan Svanstrom Chief Financial Officer: Alison Dolan Company Secretary: Carolyn Pollard Website: https://plc.rightmove.co.uk Financial calendar 2024 2023 full-year results 1 March 2024 Final dividend record date 26 April 2024 Annual General Meeting 10 May 2024 Final dividend payment 24 May 2024 Half-year results 26 July 2024 Registered office Rightmove plc 2 Caldecotte Lake Business Park Caldecotte Lake Drive Milton Keynes MK7 8LE Registered in England no. 06426485 Corporate advisers Financial adviser UBS Investment Bank Joint brokers UBS AG London Branch Numis Securities Limited Auditor Ernst & Young LLP Bankers Barclays Bank plc Santander UK plc HSBC UK Bank plc Lloyds Banking Group plc Solicitors EMW LLP Linklaters LLP Herbert Smith Freehills LLP Registrar Link Asset Services (1) Advisers and shareholder information ![]() Rightmove plc | Annual Report 2023 believe it Rightmove’s vision is to give everyone the belief they can make their move. Our mission is to make the move easier and simpler, by giving everyone the best place to turn to and return to, for accessing the tools, expertise and trust to make it happen. Designed and produced by The Team www.theteam.co.uk ![]() believe in your next move Rightmove plc | Annual Report 2023 Rightmove plc Annual Report 2023 Rightmove plc 2 Caldecotte Lake Business Park Caldecotte Lake Drive Milton Keynes MK7 8LE Registered in England no. 6426485