New president sets out his CIOB agenda

Professor Ghassan Aouad, inaugurated as the 111th president of the CIOB at the annual general meeting on 16 June in Doha, Qatar last month, described his early life and pride at becoming the first CIOB president from the Middle East in his acceptance speech.

Aouad also spoke of how he will use his term to strengthen the institute’s global strategy, promote leadership and innovation, and engage with schools.

He told the audience: “In 1985 when I left war-torn Lebanon for the UK, I didn’t realise that I was heading to a country that gives opportunity to any person who is willing to work hard and integrate within a supportive society. And I never dreamt that I would reach this prestigious honour. 

“I am fortunate to start my tenure as president in Qatar, a country that is close to my heart that has undergone major development through creative and innovative construction.

“However, we shouldn’t shy away from the well-publicised problems that face construction workers here and throughout the Gulf. And during my presidency it is my aspiration to help stimulate change and promote a culture of respect for people and professionalism.”

As for what he hopes to achieve in his year-long term, Aouad said he wanted to raise the global profile of the institute. “I will ensure that our global strategy is developed and our members are exposed to the opportunities of overseas markets.”

He said he would use his background as an academic – he is currently vice president for academic affairs at the Gulf University for Science and Technology in Kuwait, and previously spent 20 years at Salford University – to champion engagement with schools and universities.

“It is my intention to visit as many branches as possible to promote this strategy and to aid our engagement with decision makers and political figures to make them more aware of the CIOB.”

He said his main message, however, was about leadership and innovation. “I believe these two characteristics go hand-in-hand,” he said. “Leaders often directly influence whether or not an individual or an entire organisation can innovate. They hold the key to the level of success new ideas have in an organisation.”