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Opinion
The Queen: A great life, well lived
Caroline Gumble CIOB
Queen Elizabeth II on the Royal Coach (Image: Dreamstime)
The Queen played an important role in the history of the CIOB. Caroline Gumble shares in the sorrow of her passing and explains why she held Elizabeth II in such high regard.
I had already written my column for the October issue of Construction Management magazine. But as I type this, it has been just a matter of hours since we heard the announcement that Her Majesty Queen Elizabeth II has died and I find myself unable to focus on celebrating our achievements at a time of such loss.
There will be time for CIOB’s community to come back together and look to the future. But for now it is right to respect the National Mourning period and reflect on a great life, well lived.
Royal Charter
I hope members saw our expression of sadness and grief, issued on the day. Reflecting on events in my professional capacity, I noted the hugely significant role the Queen played in the history of the Institute. It was under her reign, in 1980, that our Royal Charter was granted. Specifically, the objectives as defined in the CIOB’s Royal Charter are:
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The promotion for the public benefit of the science and practice of building and construction.
The advancement of public education in the said science and practice, including all necessary research and the publication of the results of all such research.
These principles on which so much of our work is founded really matter. They have made me reflect on a more personal level on why I held Her Majesty in such high regard. Our public interest remit is just one of many hundreds, or possibly thousands, of deeds expressing a deep commitment to public service.
Source of inspiration
Regardless of your feelings about the royal family as whole, the Queen’s life was a source of inspiration for many. Her very visible and constant commitment to a life of public service, her hard work, her devotion to duty, are all qualities I admired greatly. She touched the lives of so many people. Not only the thousands she met in the course of her duties every year, but also the countless others to whom she was a role model and an example of leadership, consistency and humility.
Once again, on behalf of the CIOB community worldwide, I share our deep sorrow at the loss of Her Majesty and offer heartfelt condolences to the royal family.
We now turn our thoughts to the future, with the forthcoming accession of a new monarch. As the crown passes to His Majesty King Charles III, we offer him our loyalty and support.
The November/December 2025 issue of Construction Management magazine is now available to read in digital format.
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