Durham University appoints new Director of Estates and Facilities

22 October 2024

Other

Ian Rooney has been appointed as Director of Estates and Facilities for Durham University. He will take up this role on Wednesday 1 January 2025.

Ian brings over 27 years’ experience in estate and facilities management across a variety of sectors including the NHS, most recently as the Director of Construction Services at the university.

Estates leadership

Ian will be a member of the University’s senior leadership team, reporting to Professor Mike Shipman, Deputy Vice-Chancellor and Provost.

He will have direct responsibility for the development of the University’s Estates Strategy and Masterplan which supports the University Strategy for 2017-2027.

Passionate about Estates transformation

In recent years, Ian has led the development and implementation of several high-profile Estates projects, including the University Business School’s move to the Waterside Building in Durham City Centre.

Ian said: “I am passionate about the contribution that Estate and Facilities makes to the University community and how our estate can be used as a catalyst for wider change and transformation.

“It is an exciting time to take on this role, as major investments are planned in our estate in the coming years, to improve the condition of the existing estate and invest in new teaching and residential spaces that will position us alongside other leading universities.

“As a key member of the University's leadership and management team, I plan to build upon the strong relationships I have already built across the University and wider external networks at local, regional, and national level.”

Professor Mike Shipman, Deputy Vice-Chancellor, said: “Ian brings a proven track record of the development and delivery of strategic and operational Estates programmes across a range of complex environments, most recently on modern hybrid workspace for Professional Service colleagues at Boldon House, Durham.

“I very much look forward to working with Ian as he leads the University’s Estates transformation programme that centres around our ambitious sustainability targets.”