Caroline Gumble to leave CIOB CEO role in 2025

Caroline Gumble, CEO of the Chartered Institute of Building (CIOB), has announced her decision to step down in July 2025. After nearly six years in the role, Gumble will take on a leadership position in the engineering sector. Her departure coincides with CIOB’s 190th anniversary celebrations and the midpoint of its five-year corporate plan.

Gumble’s tenure, which began in August 2019, has been marked by significant achievements and challenges. She led the organisation through the global Covid-19 pandemic and the UK’s lockdowns in 2020 and 2021, advocating for clarity for the construction sector and collaborating with professional bodies to support the industry during uncertain times.

Reflecting on her time as CEO, Gumble said: “It has been an honour and a privilege to serve CIOB. I have been constantly motivated by what our members achieve. They are a talented, dedicated, generous, and remarkable group of people. I am confident they will continue transforming the future of the industry.”

A Strong Legacy

Gumble has been instrumental in reshaping the organisation’s strategic direction, focusing on sustainability, addressing the skills gap, and promoting equality, diversity, and inclusion (EDI) initiatives. Under her leadership, CIOB’s public benefit mission has taken centre stage, aligning the organisation with broader industry goals.

She also spearheaded a brand refresh in 2021 to modernise CIOB’s identity and increase its visibility. This helped drive membership growth and establish a more impactful presence in the construction sector. The transition from the Novus brand to the Tomorrows’ Leaders community during her tenure ensured that the voices of new industry entrants are heard and included in shaping the sector’s future.

Commenting on the announcement, Steve Nitman, chair of the CIOB board of trustees, said: “Caroline has put the CIOB on a solid, forward-looking platform. She brought energy and a work ethic that encouraged development and accountability, enabling the organisation to thrive. It has been my privilege to work alongside her, and I wish her every success in the future.”

Highlighting Gumble’s influence CIOB president, Professor Mike Kagioglou, also. “Caroline cemented the CIOB’s position as the largest professional body for construction management in the world. She leaves the organisation stronger, continuing its growth and impact.”

Looking Ahead

During her tenure, Gumble was awarded an honorary doctorate from the University of Wolverhampton for raising the profile of women in construction and property. She also became visiting professor of global engagement and transformation – built environment at Loughborough University.

Discussing her decision to step down, Gumble noted the timing was right for a leadership transition: “2025 is the mid-point for CIOB’s current five-year corporate plan and the conclusion of our 190th anniversary celebrations. My successor will have the chance to shape the next corporate plan and look ahead to the CIOB’s 200th anniversary.”

Recruitment for the next CIOB CEO is already underway, with the process overseen by the chair of the board of trustees.