Lucy Carmichael has over 20 years’ experience supporting excellence in architecture and the built environment. Most recently she was RIBA Director of Practice for over 5 years, leading the programme promoting effective practice and professional standards. Since joining the RIBA in 2013, Lucy oversaw the institute’s work on equality diversity and inclusion, fire safety, sustainable outcomes, procurement and best practice placemaking, as well as key practice resources including the RIBA Plan of Work 2020. Lucy started her career in architectural practice, moving to CABE in 2003 to develop design advice, policy and best practice for strategic development projects. She set up and managed CABE’s London 2012 design review service and went on to carry out research for the Olympic Delivery Authority on delivering design excellence. She is currently on a career break to spend time with her daughters.