Jim Whelan has spent 30 years involved in sustainable development in various ways, but primarily in the field on planning and property. He is an independent consultant, advising a range of clients on urban policy development and practical delivery, strategic analysis of sustainable development options, economic and regeneration studies, and organisational change. He previously worked at GVA for over 20 years, where he was Director of Planning Research and Consultancy. Jim has been a member of IES since 1993, and served on the Council from 1995 - 2019, where he has acted as Honorary Treasurer for a number of terms.  He was elected Vice President in July 2019.