AUDE 

Who we are.

At the Association of University Directors of Estates (AUDE), we focus on learning together about how to make estates and facilities in Higher Education better. We provide our membership services efficiently to give a credible sector voice on every aspect of the estates remit in HE. We work inclusively and collaboratively to make sure that a wide range of relevant opinions can use AUDE and its platforms in the service of excellence in HE estates. 

We are committed to fostering a professional community that is collaborative, inclusive, and forward-thinking. Our values reflect our dedication to advancing excellence in higher education estates management while upholding the principles of equality, diversity, and inclusion as fundamental to everything we do. 

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In the service of these ideas, we are committed to creating a community where everyone feels valued, respected, and empowered to contribute fully, regardless of background, identity, or perspective. This means we have standards about the way we interact with each other in all our dealings with each other as part of this association.  

Behaviours we expect of our members and stakeholders who align to us 
To embody these values and uphold our commitment to EDI, we expect our members to: 

• Model respectful behaviour: Engage with colleagues, peers, and stakeholders with civility, empathy, and a genuine commitment to understanding differing perspectives. 

• Champion inclusivity: Proactively create environments—both within AUDE and in their institutions—where diverse voices are welcomed, heard, and respected. 

• Challenge inequity: Identify and address barriers to equality and inclusion, striving to create opportunities for underrepresented groups within the estates and facilities management profession. 

• Commit to continuous learning: Actively seek opportunities to expand their knowledge and understanding of EDI principles, applying these learnings to their work and interactions. 

And most importantly we will hold each other accountable. We expect a culture of mutual accountability, where all members feel empowered to address and improve practices that do not align with our shared values. 

As an organisation, AUDE will lead by example, embedding EDI into our policies, practices, and governance. We will continue to provide resources, training, and guidance to support our members in promoting and implementing these values within their institutions. 

Together, we will build a community that reflects and celebrates the diversity of the higher education sector, driving meaningful change in the estates management profession. 

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Syd Cottle 

AUDE Chair 

Ian Grimes 

AUDE Chair-Elect (in position from April 2026 for the period to April 2028) 

Jane Harrison-White 

AUDE Executive Director 

The AUDE Executive Committee (October 2025)

Phil Baker

Lucy Black

Paul Davis

Umesh Desai

Anita Edson

Simon Francis

Chris Garlick

David Hall

Steve Jordan

Adrian McGillion

Eleanor Magennis

Paul Morris

Helen Wallace

Stephen Wells

Lars Wiegand

Jerry Woods

Roddy Yarr