Inaugural CICES Equity, Diversity and Inclusion awards recognise outstanding industry contributions

The Chartered Institution of Civil Engineering Surveyors (CICES) has recognised two exceptional professionals with its inaugural Equity, Diversity and Inclusion (EDI) Awards.

Presented at the institution's Annual Dinner last month, the awards reflect CICES' commitment to EDI as a golden thread underpinning the institution's work, recognising individuals who are driving positive change and helping to create a more inclusive, representative and welcoming profession.

Simon Navin was named as the first-ever recipient of the EDI Trailblazer award.

Simon’s passion for equality, diversity and inclusion grew from a strong sense of fairness developed early in his construction career, where he witnessed talented colleagues who thought, communicated, or worked differently being overlooked simply for not fitting a mainstream mould.

Head of Geospatial Services at Ordnance Survey, Simon has spent years driving systemic change across the sector. As former chair of CICES’ EDI Council, he has consistently championed open conversations, challenged established assumptions and kept equity at the centre of the agenda.

Speaking about the award win, Simon Navin said:

‘I’m incredibly proud to receive the inaugural CICES EDI Trailblazer Award. It recognises not just something I care deeply about, but the practical action needed to turn equity, diversity and inclusion from good intentions into lasting change.

Through my involvement with CICES - including the Council of Management, the presidential chain and previously chairing its EDI Council - I’ve tried to bring fair challenge, remove barriers, create fairer opportunities and encourage honest conversations. I hope this award helps inspire others to turn commitment into meaningful action.’

Simon Hamlyn, CICES CEO:
‘Simon’s unwavering commitment to advancing equity, diversity and inclusion make him a highly deserving recipient of this award. As a former Chair of the EDI Council, he has championed meaningful progress and helped establish these principles as an integral part of CICES and the wider profession.’

Meanwhile, Hannah Jenkins of People Plus Cymru, was named the winner of the EDI Voice Award, recognising her commitment to tackling social inequality and creating opportunities for disadvantaged people.

Through her secondment with Sacyr UK, Hannah has supported initiatives that help individuals facing significant barriers, including homelessness, to access training, employment and opportunities for a brighter future. Her work highlights the positive impact of collaboration between the construction industry and organisations such as Sacyr, helping to create more inclusive pathways into employment and make a lasting difference to individuals and wider society.

Speaking about the award win, Hannah said:

‘I am truly honoured to receive the EDI Voice Award. For me, equality, diversity and inclusion are about creating an environment where everyone feels valued, respected, heard and empowered to be themselves. It is important that we continue to challenge barriers, celebrate our differences and ensure every voice has the opportunity to make a difference. This award is not just a personal achievement, but a reflection of the collective efforts of everyone working towards a more inclusive culture. I would particularly like to recognise our partners and subcontractors, whose collaboration, commitment and shared values play an important role in helping us embed EDI into everything we do.’Simon Hamlyn, CICES CEO:

‘Hannah is a truly deserving winner of the EDI Voice Award. Her commitment to championing equity, diversity and inclusion has helped amplify important perspectives, inspire positive change and contribute to a more inclusive profession.’

The EDI awards were kindly sponsored by Topcon Positioning Systems.

ENDS

Editor notes + media 

  • The Chartered Institution of Civil Engineering Surveyors (CICES) is the leading international professional body for specialists in geospatial engineering and commercial management in infrastructure.
  • For more information about the CICES EDI Awards and our ongoing community initiatives, visit cices.org.
  • View photos of mentioned award winners here.