Saul Humphrey FCIOB has been announced as the Chartered Institute of Building’s president for the 2026/27 term, taking the reins from Paul Gandy FCIOB.
Humphrey plans to use his platform as CIOB president to champion climate literacy, resilience and sustainability across the built environment profession, encouraging construction professionals to place these issues at the heart of their decision-making.
The sustainable construction expert, a professor of sustainable construction management at Anglia Ruskin University, believes construction professionals have an important role to play in responding to the growing climate pressures facing the industry.
“If we are serious about responding to the challenges facing society, then professionalism is how we do it,” he said.
“We need to understand carbon, resilience, materials and impact, not as abstract ideas, but as part of everyday decision-making. In short, climate literacy needs to become a core part of what it means to be a professional in the built environment.”
Humphrey brings these principles of sustainable development to every project led by Saul D Humphrey LLP (B Corp). Alongside his work, he holds a range of trustee, ambassador, chair and non-executive roles, helping to promote positive change across construction, energy and placemaking, with a strong focus on purpose, values and environmental and social impact.
‘Construction is central to the story’
Ahead of taking the reins, Humphrey praised the work of previous CIOB presidents Professor Mike Kagioglou and Paul Gandy, highlighting how their focus on sustainability and modern professionalism had helped shape the direction of the Institute and wider industry.
“The built environment is not just part of the story – it is central to it,” he said.
“Through CIOB, through our learning, through our CPD and through the Academy, we have the opportunity to make climate literacy and resilience part of the baseline of professional knowledge across our industry.
“If we can do that, then we will not just talk about change. We will deliver it.
“This is our moment to build better. Build smarter. Build for life.”
Advocate for professionalism
Humphrey is the 123rd person to hold the position of CIOB president. Throughout his career, he has been a strong advocate for professionalism, sustainability and raising standards across the built environment sector.
He has also played an active role in supporting the development of future talent and promoting continuous learning across the profession.
Outside of work, Humphrey enjoys spending time with his wife and two daughters, annual ski trips by train and following Tottenham Hotspur Football Club.
Dr Victoria Hills, CEO at CIOB, added: “I am delighted to welcome Saul into the role of CIOB president. Saul’s experience as a hugely respected practitioner and academic will help us continue strengthening links between industry and academia. His vast experience and commitment to sustainability will help to elevate CIOB’s environmental sustainability strategy further.
“I’m looking forward to working with the next president to seize opportunities to support the industry in its transition to a global green economy and continued professionalisation to speed up the uptake of retrofit and accelerate sustainable construction at scale.”
