A LEADING figure at York Minster has taken up a prestigious role in the world’s largest professional body for construction.

Rebecca Thompson, the Minster's acting Chapter Steward, has been appointed vice President of the Chartered Institute of Building (CIOB), the country’s leading body for encouraging excellent standards in the construction industry.

She hopes to be able to attract more women into the building industry through her new role, while also working with young people and speaking out for the heritage sector.

Having recently taken over as Chapter Steward, which is York Minster’s equivalent of a chief executive, Rebecca was previously the cathedral’s Superintendent of Works, managing the team of 50 people who maintain, restore and conserve York Minster and its properties.

She has been an active member of the CIOB at regional, branch and faculty levels and sits on its Faculty for Maintenance, Adaptation, Restoration and Conservation (MARC).

She said: “It’s a huge privilege to be appointed a trustee and vice president within the CIOB, which encourages and celebrates excellence in our industry.

“I have a keen interest in apprenticeships, mentoring young people and especially encouraging women into the construction industry, so look forward to being able to develop these interests in my new role while representing the heritage sector.”

Rebecca is a member of the York Guild of Building (Master in 2013-2014) and the Cathedral Workshop Fellowship, a group set up to enhance the training and qualifications of stonemasons, supporting the cathedral crafts.

She is also a member of the ASCHB; Association for Studies in the Conservation of Historic Buildings and YCCC; York Consortium for Crafts and Conservation and York Civic Trust.

Her current role at York Minster is acting Chapter Steward, covering a period of maternity leave.