News/ 01 September 2021
Interview with Harvey Dowdy: HEDQF Trustee and Director of Estates, University of Lincoln
Who are you and what do you do?
I am a Chartered Surveyor and Director of Estates & Facilities at the University of Lincoln. Originally trained as an archaeologist, I have spent the last 30 years working in commercial property management and place-making in historic towns and cities. I am a Trustee of the Historic Lincoln Trust and a Lay Canon at Lincoln Cathedral (non-executive director). I am a National Executive Member of the Association of University Directors of Estates (AUDE) and East Midlands Regional Chair. I am a member of the Finance & General Purposes Committee at Ushaw (a little-known, vast Pugin / Hansom former seminary outside Durham) and a Trustee of HEDQF.
What is your proudest accomplishment?
Leading the team which completed the Lincoln Medical School on 31st March 2021 ‘on time and on budget’ despite Covid and Brexit. It will be carbon neutral in operation – we think the first Medical School to be built to this standard. Better still – we have had great feedback from staff and students.
What is your favourite thing about your career?
Working with enthusiastic colleagues and translating their wants and needs into great buildings and spaces.
Describe HEDQF in a sentence?
A really useful organisation – bringing together creative practitioners with end – users to create buildings which can inspire learners and teachers.
What is your contribution to HEDQF?
I am a Trustee of HEDQF because I can bring my experience of working in HE to the debate around the HE buildings of the future.
What does a good HE building mean to you – quote?
It should be sustainable, functional and capable of providing inspiration.
One thing about you that will surprise people?
In my twenties I worked as a professional singer and still sing – most weeks – with the Lincoln Cathedral Consort – a choir which provides the liturgical music for services allowing the professional choir and choristers to have a well-deserved break.
Cats or dogs?
Both – 1 dog, 4 cats and 4 hens – domestic bliss.
What would you change about yourself if you could?
Thinner…
What makes you laugh the most?
Shaun the Sheep
And that’s all for now from Harvey, look out for our next interview in October …..