The Chartered Institute of Building’s board of trustees has appointed Dr Victoria Hills MRTPI FICE as the body’s new chief executive officer.
The current chief executive officer of the Royal Town Planning Institute (RTPI) will join CIOB later this year.
She replaces Caroline Gumble, who stood down this month after six years in post.
Hills joined RTPI in 2018, where she led a major transformation programme to develop the organisation into a more outward-facing and dynamic body to engage more effectively with external stakeholders and members.
She developed RTPI’s value proposition to grow membership while investing heavily in digital solutions and engaging personally with major employers.
CIOB said Hills brings a strong understanding of many of the institute’s current issues and challenges, along with valuable networks in governmental, regulatory and commercial areas.
Steve Nitman, chair of the CIOB’s board of trustees, said: “We are pleased to welcome Dr Victoria Hills and congratulate her on her appointment as CIOB’s new CEO. Victoria brings a wealth and depth of experience to begin a new chapter in our long and influential history, and we look forward to a successful, progressive, and rewarding future that strengthens our position as the go-to global built environment professional institute.”
‘Construction is the next frontier’
Hills said: “The built environment is without doubt one of the major topics being debated in this country. During my time at the RTPI, I have worked hard to ensure that planning has been driven up the agenda. As I look to the future, with a clear focus on the delivery of growth while achieving the Sustainable Development Goals, the next frontier, without doubt in my mind, is construction.
“It’s an incredibly exciting time for professionalism in the construction sector, and the opportunity to improve the quality of the built environment, driving up professional standards, pushing forward on innovation, influencing policy and strengthening talent across the CIOB global community is one not to be missed, and I am excited to be joining the CIOB at this time.
“I feel privileged to be taking over from Caroline, who has delivered a significant change programme for the organisation, leaving a strong legacy, and I wish her all the very best in her next significant role.
“I’m truly thrilled to be taking on this important role at a time when CIOB members will need the support of their professional body in tackling the potential future challenges, whilst maximising the opportunities that lie ahead, for the benefit of society.”
