Ben Chimes - Made in Coventry

Introduction

Ben Chimes is a Coventry University graduate who has built a successful career in transport planning, working across both the public and private sectors on big development projects across the UK. As a 2011 graduate of Geography and Environmental Hazards BSc (Hons), Ben has progressed to become a Chartered Transport Planning Professional and Fellow of the Chartered Institution of Highways & Transportation.

Studying Geography at Coventry University

Ben chose Coventry University because of its strong reputation for applied learning and employability, as well as its focus on connecting academic theory with the ways of the workplace.

“I was really drawn to how the university prepares students for life beyond graduation. It felt like a place where learning had a clear purpose.

I’ve always been curious about how the world works, from cities and landscapes to climate and social change. Geography encourages critical thinking and adaptability, which are incredibly relevant in today’s world."

Launching a career in transport planning

Ben’s degree provided him with plenty of technical and transferable skills, including data analysis, research, problem-solving, and clear communication.

He explains that the practical elements of his course (like fieldwork, projects, and independent research) were particularly valuable in preparing him for the industry:

“They mirrored real workplace projects and helped me understand how to apply academic knowledge to complex, real-world challenges.”

Today, Ben works as a Transport Planning Consultant, delivering projects from the feasibility stage through to post-consent support across residential, commercial, education, faith, MOD, and mixed-use developments. His work helps shape sustainable, efficient, and inclusive places.

Career highlights and achievements

Ever since graduating, Ben has built an impressive professional profile. In 2021, he was elected a Fellow of the Chartered Institution of Highways & Transportation (FCIHT), the highest grade of membership, recognising his significant contribution to the profession.

He also achieved Chartered Transport Planning Professional (CTPP) status in 2022.

Alongside technical delivery, Ben leads teams, supports business development, acts as an Expert Witness, and mentors other people in the profession.

“My career hasn’t been linear, but it has been shaped by curiosity, determination and a commitment to lifelong learning, values I developed during my time at Coventry.”

Inspiring future graduates

Ben is passionate about showing current students that there are many different paths a Coventry University degree can lead to.

“I would love future students to see that careers don’t have to be linear. With the right mindset, a Coventry education can open doors to impactful and rewarding opportunities.”

Ben’s journey shows how a passion for understanding the world can grow into a meaningful and successful career. From his time studying geography at Coventry University to becoming a respected professional in transport planning, he continues to make a positive impact through his work while inspiring future graduates to stay curious and open to all the opportunities that come their way.