The Chartered Institute of Building (CIOB) has welcomed Mike Kagioglou as its President for the 2024/25 term.
Kagioglou, who also serves as the Pro Vice-Chancellor for Research and Business Innovation at De Montfort University in Leicester, plans to use his presidency to underscore the significance of the United Nations’ Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) within the construction industry.
Addressing Members at the Forum
Speaking at the CIOB’s annual Members’ Forum in Cape Town, South Africa, on June 25, Kagioglou stressed the need for the construction sector to prioritize building resilient infrastructure, encouraging inclusive and sustainable industrial practices, and fostering innovation.
“In 2015 — it feels like ages ago — the United Nations introduced the SDGs to help us, as a global community, address humanity’s most pressing challenges,” he remarked. “These goals encompass sustainability in its broadest sense, focusing on quality of life, access to justice, economic growth, and productive employment.”
SDGs and the Construction Industry
Kagioglou highlighted that many of the 17 SDGs are directly applicable to the construction sector and align with CIOB’s strategic plan. “The built environment touches everyone’s lives.
It is the backbone of economies worldwide, encompassing offices, shops, infrastructure, hospitals, schools, and housing,” he explained. “Beyond that, our workforce, supply chains, and the users of the buildings and infrastructure we create are integral parts of our communities.”
Succeeding the Previous President
Kagioglou follows Sandi Rhys Jones OBE, FCIOB, as the 121st President of CIOB. His notable career includes roles such as Pro Vice-Chancellor of Global Development (Europe and UK) and Dean of Engineering, Design and Built Environment at Western Sydney University (WSU), Australia.
He has also led two government-funded innovative manufacturing research centres in the built environment and healthcare infrastructure and has played a crucial role in establishing educational units and structures in several universities across two countries.
CEO’s Enthusiasm
Caroline Gumble, CEO of CIOB, expressed her excitement about Kagioglou’s appointment, saying, “I am thrilled to welcome Mike as CIOB President.
His international perspective and academic experience will greatly benefit CIOB, especially in further strengthening the connection between industry and academia.
His expertise will contribute significantly to many of our focal areas, particularly in advancing our environmental sustainability initiatives and addressing the skills gap.”
A New Era of Focus
Kagioglou’s presidency is set to bring a renewed emphasis on sustainability and innovation in the construction sector, aligning with global efforts to achieve the SDGs and improve quality of life through sustainable development.