TRAINING AND DEVELOPMENT Spotlight SPOTLIGHT ON
JAMES CHADWICK FIHEEM, CMIWFM, MIET
J
ames Chadwick FIHEEM, CMIWFM, MIET, is a name synonymous with innovation, leadership, and dedication in the healthcare estates and facilities sector. With a career spanning over
two decades, James has consistently demonstrated a passion for professional development and a commitment to shaping the future of healthcare infrastructure. After starting his electrical career straight from 6th form in 1997, James worked his way through
the technical qualifications to a senior position within a national consultant’s and contractor’s firm before having his own business from 2007-2010 and joining the NHS in 2009 this is where his journey with IHEEM began as a young professional seeking to deepen his understanding of the healthcare environment. Over the years, James has evolved from a member to a Fellow, Trustee, and Council Member, and currently serves as Chair of the East Midlands Branch. His contributions have been instrumental in advancing the Institute’s mission, particularly in workforce development, CPD systems, and engaging younger members. Notably, he conceived the workforce development route map in 2014, which has since been evolved into what is used today by IHEEM, HEFMA – a testament to his visionary thinking, he has also written a few articles for HEJ. James’s professional development has been shaped by a blend of academic achievement, hands-on leadership, and strategic training. From earning a First-Class BSc Honours in Electrical & Electronic Technology to completing executive-level programmes with the NHS Leadership Academy, his learning has always been purposeful and aligned with the evolving needs of the sector. His participation in the Advancing Talent Programme, sponsored by NHS executives, positioned him as a future board-level leader, equipping him with the skills to navigate complex organisational challenges. Throughout his career, James has held engineering positions and various AP’s rolls, senior roles across NHS Trusts, the private sector, and charitable organisations. His leadership has
James’s professional development has been shaped by a blend of academic achievement, hands-on leadership, and strategic training… His learning has always been purposeful and aligned with the evolving needs of the sector
driven transformational change – from delivering multi-million-pound capital programmes to embedding sustainability and digital innovation across estates functions. His achievements include winning the IHEEM Sustainability Award, founding the Midlands Innovation Conference, and leading the development of smart hospital strategies under the New QEH programme. Training and development have not only shaped James’s career but have become a cornerstone of his leadership philosophy. He is a firm believer in mentoring and coaching, having supported countless professionals in their growth journeys. His hands-on approach, combined with strategic foresight, has helped build resilient teams and future-ready estates services. Whether chairing working groups, facilitating STEM events as a STEM ambassador, or speaking at national conferences, James continues to inspire and influence the next generation of healthcare engineers. Reflecting on his journey, James credits IHEEM as a vital platform for connection, learning, and leadership. “IHEEM has been more than a professional body – it’s been a community, a family, a catalyst for change, and a source of lifelong learning,” he says. His story exemplifies how sustained engagement with professional development and institutional support can unlock potential, drive innovation, and leave a lasting legacy in the healthcare estate landscape.
IHEEM has been more than a professional body – it’s been a community, a family, a catalyst for change, and a source of lifelong learning
February 2026 Health Estate Journal 15
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