My experience is as a “generalist” - overseeing projects from conception through to construction. This allows me to anticipate problems and provide timely advice that can help lead to a successful outcome.
Phil manages the Auckland Civil section and is responsible for business planning, recruitment, financial performance and leadership for a team of 45 engineers, working on projects across New Zealand and internationally.
Working on a wide variety of projects that require different skills, Phil has had the opportunity to gain extensive experience in several countries including Australia and the UK. He joined Beca’s Auckland office as an engineer after attaining his NZCE qualification in 1979. He then transferred to Sydney to join Beca’s Australian team before leaving the company for a three year stint in the UK.
In 1993, Phil returned to New Zealand to work for Beca on a variety of marine related projects, including the Gulf Harbour Marina and the design and construction of the canal for the Gulf Harbour Marine Village.
The Gulf Harbour Marine Village was one of the highlights of his career. At the time of construction it was a unique concept - turning a flat paddock into a large residential high rise development that fronted a canal with berthage for around 200 vessels; up to 20m long. His career moved towards project management when he assisted Auckland City to develop the Viaduct Basin for the 2000 America’s Cup in 1997.
After Phil took a two year sabbatical working for Volunteer Services abroad in the Himalayan Kingdom of Bhutan in 2002, he rejoined his Beca colleagues to work on the design and construction phases of large roading projects. One project that he found particularly challenging was the concept design and consenting for the Victoria Park Tunnel; upgrading 3km of urban motorway including a 500m cut and cover tunnel.
“I derive enormous satisfaction from giving younger engineers opportunities to develop their own careers and reach their potential, “ says Phil.