Early Academic Pursuits
Professor Fiona Charnley's academic journey began with a Bachelor of Arts (Hons) in Industrial Design and Technology from Loughborough University in 2003. She then pursued a Master of Science by Research in Design Psychology at Cranfield University in 2005. Her educational journey culminated in a Ph.D. in Whole System Design from Cranfield University in 2009.
Professional Endeavors
After completing her Ph.D., Professor Charnley embarked on a successful career in academia and research. She held the position of Postdoctoral Research Fellow at the Institute of Energy and Sustainable Development, De Montfort University, from 2009 to 2011. Subsequently, she served as a Lecturer in Sustainable Product and Service Design at Cranfield University from 2011 to 2016, where she made significant contributions to the field of circular innovation.
In 2016, she advanced to the role of Senior Lecturer in Circular Innovation at Cranfield University, a position she held until 2019. During this time, she focused on research and teaching related to sustainable product design and circular economy principles.
In 2019, Professor Charnley joined the University of Exeter as an Associate Professor in Circular Economy and later transitioned to the role of Professor Circular Innovation and Co-Director of the Exeter Centre for the Circular Economy in 2021. Her leadership and expertise have been instrumental in shaping the discourse and practices surrounding circular economy initiatives.
Additionally, she has served as a Senior Associate of the Cambridge Institute for Sustainability Leadership since 2020, further expanding her impact and influence in the sustainability and circular economy domains.
Contributions and Research Focus
Professor Charnley's contributions to academia and research are extensive, particularly in the areas of circular economy, sustainable product design, and innovation. Her research has focused on topics such as circular business models, digital transformation in the context of the circular economy, consumer behaviors related to sustainability, and the role of data-driven intelligence in circular systems.
She has been involved in numerous research projects funded by prestigious organizations like UKRI, EPSRC, and the European Regional Development Fund, highlighting the significance and impact of her work in securing substantial funding for research endeavors.
Accolades and Recognition
Throughout her career, Professor Fiona Charnley has garnered recognition for her contributions to the field of sustainability and circular economy. Her work has been published in reputable journals, and she has authored or co-authored several influential publications and books that have advanced understanding and practices in sustainable design and circular innovation.
Impact and Influence on Ethical Leadership Award
Professor Charnley's impact extends beyond academia, as she actively engages with industry, policymakers, and stakeholders to promote sustainable practices and circular economy principles. Her research has influenced decision-making processes and strategies aimed at fostering environmental sustainability and resource efficiency.
Legacy and Future Contributions
As a renowned expert in circular innovation and sustainable design, Professor Fiona Charnley continues to inspire future generations of researchers, educators, and practitioners. Her legacy includes a substantial body of work that has shaped the discourse and implementation of circular economy strategies globally. Looking ahead, she remains committed to advancing knowledge, driving innovation, and catalyzing positive change in the pursuit of a more sustainable and circular future.
The Ethical Leadership Award recognizes individuals who have demonstrated exemplary ethical conduct, integrity, and accountability in their leadership roles. Recipients of this prestigious award exhibit a strong commitment to ethical principles and values, serving as role models for ethical behavior within their organizations and communities. They prioritize transparency, fairness, and social responsibility in their decision-making processes, fostering trust and credibility among stakeholders.
Notable publications