Business leader and barrier-breaker awarded Honorary Professorship

September 2026

By Melanie Hall

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A trailblazing entrepreneur who launched her first business at just 19, became the first Black woman in Birmingham to own a ladies-only gym and has helped shape the future of the UK's construction workforce has been awarded an Honorary Professorship at this year's graduation.

Charlene Wall, founder and Head of Operations at The Wood Manor Group, was recognised for her impact on business, education and social mobility, as well as her commitment to helping the next generation of talent succeed.

With more than 20 years' experience running businesses across the region, Charlene has become one of the West Midlands' leading advocates for sustainability, diversity and skills development.

Following the loss of her mother at a young age, she was inspired to continue her family's legacy of entrepreneurship, property development and community impact, building a career that has influenced both industry and education across the region.

Today, Charlene leads The Wood Manor Group, overseeing property development and renovation projects that prioritise quality, sustainability and long-term value for local communities.

Alongside her business success, Charlene has worked tirelessly to create opportunities for young people looking to build careers in construction and the built environment.

Through her work with the Construction Industry Training Board (CITB) Employer Advisory Committee and as a judge for the Building the Future Awards, she has helped shape skills development and champion emerging talent across the sector.

Students at University College Birmingham have also benefitted from her support and expertise. Charlene regularly contributes to university events and networking opportunities, sharing insights from her career and helping students build valuable industry connections.

She has also played a key role in establishing and co-leading the University's West Midlands Green Skills Advisory Panel, bringing together employers, educators and industry leaders to address workforce challenges linked to sustainability and the transition to a greener economy.

Charlene was also one of the first business leaders to support University College Birmingham's scholarship scheme, helping more students access higher education and achieve their ambitions regardless of their background.

Championing diversity and inclusion has been a defining part of her career. As the first Black woman in Birmingham to own a ladies-only gym, Gym Divas, she broke new ground as an entrepreneur and continues to inspire women and young people to pursue careers in business, leadership and industry.

Her wider community work includes serving as an ambassador for the Luca Foundation and supporting International Women's Day initiatives across the West Midlands, encouraging thousands of people to pursue their goals and fulfil their potential.

Awarding Charlene an Honorary Fellowship recognises not only her impressive business achievements, but also her dedication to supporting students, widening opportunities and helping others succeed.

She said: "Being honoured with a professorship from University College Birmingham is an incredibly meaningful and humbling recognition, and I am truly grateful to have my commitment to outreach, skills and the construction industry recognised in this way.

"It is a privilege to be recognised for the contribution I have made to creating greater opportunities across the West Midlands.

"I look forward to working even more closely with University College Birmingham in the near future, building on the partnership we have already established and creating further opportunities for the next generation of construction and built environment professionals.

"I am truly honoured, and even more motivated for what comes next.”