President, President Elect, Vice President and Honorary Treasurer

The President takes office automatically following his or her term of office as President Elect.  

The principal responsibilities of Board Members (Trustees) are jointly to:

Institution’s Purpose and Legal Obligations: 

• Ensure the Institution operates within its Royal Charter, Byelaws, Regulations, and UK charity law.
• Adhere to the Board Code of Conduct and maintain high ethical standards.

Strategic Leadership:

• Determine and approve the Institution’s strategic direction, monitor progress against the strategic plan and evaluate outcomes.

Governance and Risk Management:

• Appoint and support the Chief Executive in performing delegated duties.
• Delegate authority to the Chief Executive and Executive team, maintaining appropriate oversight of performance.
• Monitor and evaluate the implementation of policies, strategies, and business plans.
• Ensure organisational structures, governance arrangements and capability are appropriate for delivering agreed strategic direction (oversight not management).
• Maintain a relevant governance structure for all Committees and review it periodically.
• Represent the Board on Standing Committees and function as a communication link between them.
• Regularly review the Board’s own effectiveness.
• Ensure compliance with the Institution’s Code of Conduct and disciplinary processes.
• Publish the annual report and comply with all reporting requirements.
• Approve elections to the Board and Council and ensure that general meetings are properly convened and conducted.
• Review external opportunities, threats, and risks affecting the Institution and respond appropriately.

Financial Management:

• Approve the annual budget and oversee financial performance against it.
• Ensure proper financial procedures, authorisation controls, and transparency are maintained.
• Oversee preparation of statutory financial statements and recommend auditor appointments.
• Ensure effective investment and stewardship of the Institution’s funds.
• Promote goodwill, confidence, and support among Members and Stakeholders.

The principal responsibilities of the President (additional to those of a Trustee) are to:

• Demonstrate leadership on behalf of and in the interests of the whole membership in pursuit of the Board’s agreed goals.
• Recognise the higher profile that the role gives them and the added responsibility that this entails in serving the Institution and the members at large and therefore always act appropriately with discretion and Integrity.
• Raise the profile of the Institution and uphold its standing and standards.
• Attend and preside over all major formal and social events of the Institution.
• Attend and support activities of Societies, Regions, Networks and Patrons whenever possible and appropriate both in the UK and overseas.
• Attend events of sister bodies by invitation when possible and appropriate.
• Be knowledgeable about all the major aspects and issues currently being managed by the Institution and able to understand and represent CIBSE’s position on them.
• Share and maintain a professional, supportive relationship with the CEO and staff.
• Chair the Council, Board of Trustees and House sub-committee in a professional, efficient and inclusive manner.

The President is expected to attend and Chair Board, Council, House sub-committee and Groups and Society meetings.

They shall be required to set time aside to research, read and prepare for meetings, so that they can confidently and effectively perform their duties.

They will be expected to attend a range of Central and Regional meetings/visits and other events of the Institution across the UK and Internationally, as well as those of other industries or professions.

A full Presidential Calendar of activities, events and visits will be agreed ahead of the Presidential year and details provided as part of inductions and planning whilst in the role of President Elect.

The average time commitment over the Presidential year amounts to 4-8 days/month including two week-long international trips.

The role of the CIBSE President is to serve as the Institution’s elected leader and principal representative.

The President is an Officer of the Institution and a Senior Trustee who provides elected leadership to the Board.

The CEO is responsible to the President who acts on behalf of the Board. The CEO leads the executive management team, day to day operations and delivery of the strategic objectives under the direction of the Board.

The CIBSE President represents CIBSE and its Members in a range of public and institutional forums helping to shape and promote the Institution’s direction, influence, and professional standing.

The CIBSE Presidential address sets the scene for the Institution’s direction of travel for the Presidential year.

The President automatically takes position as immediate Past President at the annual general meeting at the end of their term.

The role carries the full responsibilities of a Trustee and member of the Board of the Institution.

As detailed for President Elect.

The President Elect must:

• Be a Fellow of CIBSE
• Be or have been a Vice President or Honorary Treasurer of CIBSE.
• Be able to commit the time required
  • For President Elect the average time commitment over the year amounts to approximately 0.5–1 days/week including 1 week-long international trip. For President the average time commitment over the Presidential year amounts to approximately 1–2 days/week including 2 week-long international trips.
• Have the full support of their employer (where applicable) and family to undertake the responsibilities of President Elect, President and Immediate Past President.

The principal responsibilities of Board Members (Trustees) are jointly to:

Institution’s Purpose and Legal Obligations: 

• Ensure the Institution operates within its Royal Charter, Byelaws, Regulations, and UK charity law.
• Adhere to the Board Code of Conduct and maintain high ethical standards.

Strategic Leadership:

• Determine and approve the Institution’s strategic direction, monitor progress against the strategic plan and evaluate outcomes.

Governance and Risk Management:

• Appoint and support the Chief Executive in performing delegated duties.
• Delegate authority to the Chief Executive and Executive team, maintaining appropriate oversight of performance.
• Monitor and evaluate the implementation of policies, strategies, and business plans.
• Ensure organisational structures, governance arrangements and capability are appropriate for delivering agreed strategic direction (oversight not management).
• Maintain a relevant governance structure for all Committees and review it periodically.
• Represent the Board on Standing Committees and function as a communication link between them.
• Regularly review the Board’s own effectiveness.
• Ensure compliance with the Institution’s Code of Conduct and disciplinary processes.
• Publish the annual report and comply with all reporting requirements.
• Approve elections to the Board and Council and ensure that general meetings are properly convened and conducted.
• Review external opportunities, threats, and risks affecting the Institution and respond appropriately.

Financial Management:

• Approve the annual budget and oversee financial performance against it.
• Ensure proper financial procedures, authorisation controls, and transparency are maintained.
• Oversee preparation of statutory financial statements and recommend auditor appointments.
• Ensure effective investment and stewardship of the Institution’s funds.
• Promote goodwill, confidence, and support among Members and Stakeholders.

The principal responsibilities of the President Elect (additional to those of a Trustee) are to:

• Take a leading and public role in the affairs of the Institution.
• Assist the President in leading the Institution to achieve its goals.
• Understand the obligations and duties of the President.
• Represent the President at related events and meetings, Institution functions and special events when required.
• Undertake assignments delegated to the President Elect, such as Leading ad-hoc committees and/or projects.
• Chair the Regional Liaison Committee (RLC) and function as a link between it and the Board.
• Prepare for the additional responsibilities and duties of the role of President.
• Develop a strong understanding of the operations and activities of CIBSE to facilitate Presidential year.

The President Elect serves a one-year term. This is followed by a one-year term as President and a further one-year term as Immediate Past President.

A Calendar of activities, events and visits will be agreed ahead of the President Elect year.

The average time commitment over the year amounts to 2-4 days/month including one week-long international trip. 

The position of President Elect exists to ensure effective succession planning and continuity of leadership within the Institution.

The President Elect is an Officer of the Board, and a senior Trustee, who will support and deputise for the President where required, while preparing to take the office of President in the following term.

The President Elect shadows the President throughout their term, gaining insight into the operational, representational, and strategic responsibilities of the role.

They will actively assist in leading the Institution, represent CIBSE at official functions, global region visits and chair key committees as part of their preparation for the presidency.

The President Elect automatically takes position as President at the annual general meeting at the end of their President Elect term.

The role carries the full responsibilities of a Trustee and member of the Board of the Institution.

The following competencies/criteria for Board Members (Trustees) are desirable:

• CIBSE/Industry Experience and Awareness of Building Services Engineering Issues: Demonstrates an understanding of local, national and global building services engineering challenges and recognises how the Institution can lead or contribute to positive change.
• Commitment to the Institution: Demonstrates a strong commitment to the Institution and the ability to promote it positively and constructively. Able to commit the critical time required for the role.
• Knowledge of the Institution's Objectives and Activities: Possess an understanding of the Institution's objectives, its range of activities, the role of the Board and the key internal and external stakeholders.
• Experience Working in Teams: Teamwork and Role Understanding: Ability to work effectively as part of a team, with an understanding of one's role within the team.
• Listening Skills and Constructive Challenge: Demonstrates good listening skills and the ability to challenge ideas constructively.
• EDI (Equity, Diversity, and Inclusion) Awareness and Practice: Demonstrates an understanding of and commitment to EDI principles and practices, ensuring they contribute to a culture of inclusion within the Institution.
• Strategic Thinking and Policy Development: Ability to think strategically with an understanding of the development and implementation of policies, governance, and the implications of these decisions on the Institution's resources.

Competencies/Criteria (additional to those of a Trustee)

• Professional and Technical Competence: Must have achieved Fellow status within the institution and operate at this level, including demonstrating senior professional authority, broad technical understanding and the ability to apply engineering judgement to complex issues.
• Leadership and Governance: Demonstrated experience in strategic leadership, with the ability to guide, influence and support the Board of Trustees in fulfilling their collective responsibilities. Skilled at chairing meetings effectively and fostering inclusive, informed decision-making across the Board.
• Interpersonal and Communication Skills: Strong communicator, confident, articulate and able to represent CIBSE at formal and informal events.
• Effective Relationship Building Skills: Personable, collaborative, and able to engage with members, volunteers, partners and external bodies.
• Behavioural Qualities: Acts as an ambassador for CIBSE, Inspires others through commitment, mentorship and leadership. Demonstrates integrity, professionalism, discretion and alignment to the public-interest obligations of the Institution.

Download the nomination form

A Vice President must:

• Be a Corporate Member of CIBSE.
• Be or have been a Member of Council.
• Be or have been a Member of the Board
• Be or have been an Officer of the Board
• Be able to commit to the time required of a Vice President

The principal responsibilities of Board Members (Trustees) are jointly to:

Institution’s Purpose and Legal Obligations: 

• Ensure the Institution operates within its Royal Charter, Byelaws, Regulations, and UK charity law.
• Adhere to the Board Code of Conduct and maintain high ethical standards.

Strategic Leadership:

• Determine and approve the Institution’s strategic direction, monitor progress against the strategic plan and evaluate outcomes.

Governance and Risk Management:

• Appoint and support the Chief Executive in performing delegated duties.
• Delegate authority to the Chief Executive and Executive team, maintaining appropriate oversight of performance.
• Monitor and evaluate the implementation of policies, strategies, and business plans.
• Ensure organisational structures, governance arrangements and capability are appropriate for delivering agreed strategic direction (oversight not management).
• Maintain a relevant governance structure for all Committees and review it periodically.
• Represent the Board on Standing Committees and function as a communication link between them.
• Regularly review the Board’s own effectiveness.
• Ensure compliance with the Institution’s Code of Conduct and disciplinary processes.
• Publish the annual report and comply with all reporting requirements.
• Approve elections to the Board and Council and ensure that general meetings are properly convened and conducted.
• Review external opportunities, threats, and risks affecting the Institution and respond appropriately.

Financial Management:

• Approve the annual budget and oversee financial performance against it.
• Ensure proper financial procedures, authorisation controls, and transparency are maintained.
• Oversee preparation of statutory financial statements and recommend auditor appointments.
• Ensure effective investment and stewardship of the Institution’s funds.
• Promote goodwill, confidence, and support among Members and Stakeholders.

The principal responsibilities of Vice-Presidents (additional to those of a Trustee) are to:

• Support CIBSE’s governance and strategy as an Officer and Trustee, contributing to Board decision-making.
• Collaborate with the President and President Elect, providing leadership continuity and supporting key institutional initiatives.
• Represent CIBSE externally at official functions, regional events, and industry forums, promoting the Institution’s profile and influence.
• Engage with CIBSE Regions, Societies, Groups, and Networks to support member communities and strengthen professional reach.
• Bring sector insight to the Board, helping ensure balanced leadership and informed strategic direction.
• Develop a strong understanding of the operations and goals of CIBSE in preparation for consideration as President.
• Each Vice President should expect to lead a project or activity at the board’s request. The project will depend on the board’s objectives for the year and will typically be done with a small group of volunteers and staff members. Past projects have included governance review, volunteer engagement review and strategy development.
• The VP will be responsible for moving this project along through the year and reporting on it, as appropriate, at Board and Council.

In addition to the expectations of a trustee, Vice Presidents are expected to attend occasional events on behalf of the President and may chair ad-hoc committees.

Minimum time expectation is just over 1 day/month.

As an Officer of CIBSE and a Senior Trustee the role of Vice President shares responsibility for the Institution’s strategic decision making, and stewardship, helping ensure CIBSE serves its members and the wider public interest effectively.

Vice Presidents actively assist in leading the Institution by contributing to policy development, advising on strategic priorities, and supporting the President and President Elect

They help shape and promote CIBSE’s professional standing through engagement with Regions, Societies, and Networks and representing the Institution at official functions, technical events.

Vice Presidents bring experience, insight, and sector knowledge to the Board. They help maintain continuity of direction by supporting Board governance, upholding institutional values, and contributing to discussions that guide CIBSE’s long term development.

The role carries the full responsibilities of a Trustee and member of the Board of the Institution.

The following competencies/criteria for Board Members (Trustees) are desirable:

• CIBSE/Industry Experience and Awareness of Building Services Engineering Issues: Demonstrates an understanding of local, national and global building services engineering challenges and recognises how the Institution can lead or contribute to positive change.
• Commitment to the Institution: Demonstrates a strong commitment to the Institution and the ability to promote it positively and constructively. Able to commit the critical time required for the role.
• Knowledge of the Institution's Objectives and Activities: Possess an understanding of the Institution's objectives, its range of activities, the role of the Board and the key internal and external stakeholders.
• Experience Working in Teams: Teamwork and Role Understanding: Ability to work effectively as part of a team, with an understanding of one's role within the team.
• Listening Skills and Constructive Challenge: Demonstrates good listening skills and the ability to challenge ideas constructively.
• EDI (Equity, Diversity, and Inclusion) Awareness and Practice: Demonstrates an understanding of and commitment to EDI principles and practices, ensuring they contribute to a culture of inclusion within the Institution.
• Strategic Thinking and Policy Development: Ability to think strategically with an understanding of the development and implementation of policies, governance, and the implications of these decisions on the Institution's resources.

Competencies/criteria (additional to those of a Trustee)

Vice Presidents are normally appointed from individuals who currently serve or have previously served as Board Members, Officers of the Board or on Council. This ensures familiarity with the Institution’s governance, obligations, and strategic responsibilities.

In addition to the competencies and criteria for Trustees, Vice Presidents should have:

• The skills and experience to hold a senior position on the Board of Trustees with capacity to influence decisions.
• Leadership experience and understanding of industry issues and CIBSE’s role.
• Governance experience and commitment to CIBSE’s values, mission, and strategic objectives.
• The ability to represent CIBSE across industry.

Download the nomination form

Candidates may be members of the Institution or non-members whom the Board considers to be suitably qualified for the role.

The principal responsibilities of Board Members (Trustees) are jointly to:

Institution’s Purpose and Legal Obligations: 

• Ensure the Institution operates within its Royal Charter, Byelaws, Regulations, and UK charity law.
• Adhere to the Board Code of Conduct and maintain high ethical standards.

Strategic Leadership:

• Determine and approve the Institution’s strategic direction, monitor progress against the strategic plan and evaluate outcomes.

Governance and Risk Management:

• Appoint and support the Chief Executive in performing delegated duties.
• Delegate authority to the Chief Executive and Executive team, maintaining appropriate oversight of performance.
• Monitor and evaluate the implementation of policies, strategies, and business plans.
• Ensure organisational structures, governance arrangements and capability are appropriate for delivering agreed strategic direction (oversight not management).
• Maintain a relevant governance structure for all Committees and review it periodically.
• Represent the Board on Standing Committees and function as a communication link between them.
• Regularly review the Board’s own effectiveness.
• Ensure compliance with the Institution’s Code of Conduct and disciplinary processes.
• Publish the annual report and comply with all reporting requirements.
• Approve elections to the Board and Council and ensure that general meetings are properly convened and conducted.
• Review external opportunities, threats, and risks affecting the Institution and respond appropriately.

Financial Management:

• Approve the annual budget and oversee financial performance against it.
• Ensure proper financial procedures, authorisation controls, and transparency are maintained.
• Oversee preparation of statutory financial statements and recommend auditor appointments.
• Ensure effective investment and stewardship of the Institution’s funds.
• Promote goodwill, confidence, and support among Members and Stakeholders.

The principal responsibilities of Honorary Treasurer (additional to those of a Trustee) are to:

Financial Governance & Compliance:

• Oversee all financial affairs to ensure compliance with legal, constitutional and Charity Commission standards.
• Maintain oversight of financial systems, internal controls, and adherence to Institution rules and procedures.

Financial Strategy & Planning:

• Have strategic oversight into the preparation of the annual budget and present it for Board approval.
• Oversee financial resources management to ensure it meets present and future needs, including appropriate reserves and investment strategies.
• Oversee the monitoring of investment performance and ensure alignment with the Institution’s aims, policies, and legal responsibilities.

Reporting & Assurance:

• Support the Finance Team in delivering regular reports to the Board and support Members’ understanding of financial data.
• Oversee auditor appointments and ensure accepted audit recommendations are implemented.
• Formally present the audited accounts at the Annual General Meeting.

Leadership & Collaboration:

• Work closely with the CEO, Finance Director, and finance staff to support the financial management of the institution.
• Chair the Finance, Risk, Audit and Governance (FRAG) Subcommittee.
• Actively participate in Board meetings and contribute to decision-making.
• Maintain the confidence of the Board and uphold high standards of integrity, independence, and sound judgement in all financial matters.

Competencies/Criteria

The following competencies/criteria for Board Members (Trustees) are desirable:

CIBSE/Industry Experience and Awareness of Building Services Engineering Issues: Demonstrates an understanding of local, national and global building services engineering challenges and recognises how the Institution can lead or contribute to positive change.

Commitment to the Institution: Demonstrates a strong commitment to the Institution and the ability to promote it positively and constructively. Able to commit the critical time required for the role.

Knowledge of the Institution's Objectives and Activities: Possess an understanding of the Institution's objectives, its range of activities, the role of the Board and the key internal and external stakeholders.

Experience Working in Teams: Teamwork and Role Understanding: Ability to work effectively as part of a team, with an understanding of one's role within the team.

Listening Skills and Constructive Challenge: Demonstrates good listening skills and the ability to challenge ideas constructively.

EDI (Equity, Diversity, and Inclusion) Awareness and Practice: Demonstrates an understanding of and commitment to EDI principles and practices, ensuring they contribute to a culture of inclusion within the Institution.

Strategic Thinking and Policy Development: Ability to think strategically with an understanding of the development and implementation of policies, governance, and the implications of these decisions on the Institution's resources.

Competencies/criteria (additional to those of a Trustee)

Honorary Treasurer may be a Member of the Institution or a non-member whom the Board considers to be suitably qualified for the role.

In addition to the competencies and criteria for Trustees:

• Desirable to have served on the Council of the Institution
• Essential to have good financial analysis skills and experience in the fiscal management of a business or charity.
• Essential to have the ability to effectively chair and lead debates, to establish consensus and aid decision making.
• Essential to have the ability to report on financial matters affecting clearly and effectively the Institution.
• Able to devote the time and be free of conflicts of interest

Commitment

The Honorary Treasurer is expected to attend all Board, House Committee and Council Meetings.

The Honorary Treasurer Chairs the Finance, Risk and Governance Sub-Committee

They shall be required to set time aside to research, read and prepare for meetings, so that they can confidently and effectively carry out their responsibilities.

The term of office is one year but the Honorary Treasurer can and is expected to serve more than one term up to a maximum of 5 years.

The Honorary Treasurer is also expected to represent the Board at CIBSE and Industry events throughout the year.

Minimum time expectation is 1.5 days/month.

The Honorary Treasurer is expected to attend all Board, House Committee and Council Meetings.

The Honorary Treasurer Chairs the Finance, Risk and Governance Sub-Committee

They shall be required to set time aside to research, read and prepare for meetings, so that they can confidently and effectively carry out their responsibilities.

The term of office is one year but the Honorary Treasurer can and is expected to serve more than one term up to a maximum of 5 years.

The Honorary Treasurer is also expected to represent the Board at CIBSE and Industry events throughout the year.

Minimum time expectation is 1.5 days/month.

The Honorary Treasurer is an Officer of the Board and a Senior Trustee appointed by the Board, who provides strategic oversight of the organisation’s finances.

The role of the Honorary Treasurer is to ensure effective financial and administrative systems are in place for compliance with charity law and the regulatory framework set out by the Charity Commission. As such, they chair the Finance, Risk, Audit and Governance standing committee.

The Honorary Treasurer contributes fully to Board governance, monitors financial performance and risk, and works with the Finance Director and the CEO to develop regular financial reports to support decision making and approvals required of the Board.

The Honorary Treasurer is considered a VP role when the individual is a corporate member. When the Honorary Treasurer is not a corporate member the role is not considered a VP role.

The role carries the full responsibilities of a Trustee and member of the Board of the Institution.

The following competencies/criteria for Board Members (Trustees) are desirable:

• CIBSE/Industry Experience and Awareness of Building Services Engineering Issues: Demonstrates an understanding of local, national and global building services engineering challenges and recognises how the Institution can lead or contribute to positive change.
• Commitment to the Institution: Demonstrates a strong commitment to the Institution and the ability to promote it positively and constructively. Able to commit the critical time required for the role.
• Knowledge of the Institution's Objectives and Activities: Possess an understanding of the Institution's objectives, its range of activities, the role of the Board and the key internal and external stakeholders.
• Experience Working in Teams: Teamwork and Role Understanding: Ability to work effectively as part of a team, with an understanding of one's role within the team.
• Listening Skills and Constructive Challenge: Demonstrates good listening skills and the ability to challenge ideas constructively.
• EDI (Equity, Diversity, and Inclusion) Awareness and Practice: Demonstrates an understanding of and commitment to EDI principles and practices, ensuring they contribute to a culture of inclusion within the Institution.
• Strategic Thinking and Policy Development: Ability to think strategically with an understanding of the development and implementation of policies, governance, and the implications of these decisions on the Institution's resources.

Competencies/criteria (additional to those of a Trustee)

• Desirable to have served on the Council of the Institution
• Essential to have good financial analysis skills and experience in the fiscal management of a business or charity.
• Essential to have the ability to effectively chair and lead debates, to establish consensus and aid decision making.
• Essential to have the ability to report on financial matters affecting clearly and effectively the Institution.
• Able to devote the time and be free of conflicts of interest