CCBP Head of Centre joins CIOB Client Steering Group

21st Oct 2026

The Centre for Construction Best Practice (CCBP) has strengthened its links with the Chartered Institute of Building (CIOB) after its Head of Centre, Conor Neild-Crabb, joined the CIOB’s Client Steering Group (CSG).

The group focuses on how clients and their representatives can help improve projectoutcomes through informed decision-making, a strong understanding of regulatory responsibilities and effective engagement with project delivery teams.

CCBP’s appointment reflects a shared commitment to supporting clients in navigating the sector’s challenges, including early contractor involvement, sustainability and the adoption of new technology.

 

Ayo Allu, Chair of the CIOB Client Steering Group, said:

“The CIOB is pleased to announce our newly formed affiliation with Conor and the CCBP. The CSG is firmly committed to the principle that strategically targeted messaging delivered to appropriate clients can drive measurable and concrete improvements in how key decision-makers operate, thereby enhancing industry performance. We recognise this objective will be advanced by deepening our comprehension of the project delivery and asset management obstacles encountered by contractors—an area where the CCBP demonstrates clear leadership.

“The CSG actively seeks to cultivate partnerships with prominent industry organisations that are prepared to invest resources in advancing construction science and technology. The CCBP’s mission and strategic objectives are well-aligned with both the CSG’s goals and the CIOB’s corporate strategy.

“We share a coordinated commitment to holding Clients and Client representatives accountable for not only elevating industry standards but also expanding their knowledge of regulatory obligations, promoting technological advancement, and driving meaningful progress through early contractor participation, championing sustainable practices, and fostering continuous collaboration with project delivery partners and educational institutions.”

 

Conor Neild-Crabb, Head of Centre at CCBP, said: “Clients have a significant influence on how construction projects are procured, managed and delivered, and the decisions made at the outset can shape outcomes throughout a project’s life.

“Through CCBP’s research, we are examining some of the challenges and opportunities facing the industry, from the timing of contractor involvement to the practicalities of whole-life carbon assessment. Joining the CIOB’s Client Steering Group gives us an opportunity to bring that evidence into wider industry discussions and work with others to identify practical ways to support clients and improve project delivery.”

CCBP works with contractors, consultants, public sector organisations and academic institutions to investigate challenges facing the built environment and develop evidence to inform industry practice. It is governed by an industry advisory group and an academic advisory group made up of senior representatives from the built environment sector, and respected universities across the UK.

Its most recently published research examined early contractor involvement, including the relationship between procurement approaches and the timing of contractor appointments. The Centre is also investigating the barriers to implementing whole-life carbon assessment, working with organisations across the sector to understand the practical and policy considerations involved.

Conor’s appointment provides an opportunity to bring this research and industry experience into discussions about how clients, contractors and other project partners can work together to achieve better outcomes.

Find out more about Corporate Partnerships at CCBP

If you would like to get involved with CCBP and its research, contact the team today.