The University of the Built Environment is pleased to announce the appointment of several new Professors and Associate Professors.
The promotions, made under the University’s newly established Academic Career Framework, represent the first formal round of professorial appointments since achieving full University status in June 2025.
Deputy Vice Chancellor Jane Fawkes said:
This milestone marks an important step for both individual careers and the broader academic excellence of the University.
Professor and Associate Professor appointments
Professors
Those who have been promoted to the title of Professor are:
- Dr Wendy Finlay BSc (Hons) PGCert, Pro Vice Chancellor (Education and Students)
- Lee Ivett MSc ARB, Head of the School of Architecture
- Dr Graeme Larsen BSc (Hons) FCIOB FHEA, Associate Dean of Sustainability
- Ashley Wheaton BA (Hons) Hon FRICS Hon FCABE Hon FIConstM, Vice Chancellor
Associate Professors
In addition to the professorial appointments, eight members of academic staff have been promoted to Associate Professor:
These appointments highlight the depth of expertise across the University, spanning programme leadership, pedagogic impact, professional practice, and applied research.
The University has also appointed its first Visiting Professor, Cathy Higgs MSc MRICS SFHEA.
Criteria to become an Associate Professor or Professor
The titles of Associate Professor and Professor can be conferred by the University through a formal process overseen by the Professorial Titles Committee, under delegated authority from the Academic Board. Applications are assessed in a robust and formal process against peer standards within the candidate’s area of expertise.
How do you become an Associate Professor?
Associate Professorship recognises individuals who make a significant and sustained contribution to the achievement of the University’s goals and who demonstrate clear potential for future appointment as Professor.
Candidates are assessed on their emerging impact and external recognition by peers, professional bodies or sector organisations.
They must also submit a five-year action plan setting out how their work will continue to advance the University’s academic and professional mission.
To be appointed Associate Professor, an individual must demonstrate excellence in at least one area, with substantial strengths in another, supported by evidence of significant published work or equivalent professional output.
How do you become a Professor?
Professorial appointment recognises an outstanding record and reputation of at least national standing, beyond that expected at Associate Professor level.
Candidates are assessed across four broad areas: academic leadership; research and the advancement of applied knowledge; learning and teaching excellence; and enterprise or professional practice.
To be appointed Professor, an individual must demonstrate exceptional achievement in at least one of these areas, alongside substantial strengths in another. Applications should be supported by clear evidence of impact, published works, or sector-leading contributions within higher education or the built environment.
‘Exceptional contributions’
Ms Fawkes said: “These achievements reflect sustained dedication, exceptional contributions, and commitment to advancing our mission.
“We are committed to supporting career development and ensuring that our academic career pathways continue to recognise and reward excellence.”
All University Professors will be invited to take part in an inaugural lecture series later this year.
