The most significant changes are that we will be using technology to replace unnecessary travel, rationalizing and centralizing our knowledge offer so that the global membership can take advantage of it through the ICE’s online presence. In support of this we will be ensuring that the policy and knowledge the Institution provides is created centrally and disseminated globally. This means that we will be able to bring our international structures into line with the domestic regions putting them on an even footing and providing the same valuable membership experience.
We are incredibly conscious that some members value the regional presence that the Institution offers. As such we propose maintaining this presence in England through a hub and spoke model. Each English region will maintain a regional director and support team. However, we are proposing the offices and premises will be moved to hubs in London, Birmingham and Manchester. The recent membership satisfaction survey and Polaris research has strongly indicated that members have a preference for accessing knowledge online and that very few were aware of the physical regional offices. This will allow regional directors to engage in local awareness raising and political engagement.
We recognize that the social value of your membership cannot be replicated online so volunteer members will still be able to organise networking, social events and site visits for your region when the lockdown restriction allow for it.