2 April e-News
It is an unprecedented time for the construction and infrastructure sectors in Aotearoa. There's already much talk of construction and infrastructure playing a pivotal role in our economic recovery.
The Prime Minister and Finance Minister are both doing incredible jobs, and there have been signals of significant construction and infrastructure pipelines ahead. And while the pipeline is critical, there are many other things we have to do now.
So, I wrote to the Prime Minister to highlight what I see as some of the critical things to address. These include:
- Ensuring cash flow and continuity of work
- Identification and prioritisation of what projects should be part of the recovery
- Speed and cost to procure, and the need for rapid deployment models
- Changes to crucial project approval processes
- Use of industry-standard contractural conditions
- Recognition that local government will also have a critical role, and will need central government support
These are just a few of the factors; there are, of course, many more. Read my letter to the Prime Minister
Five principles to follow when leading staff through a crisis
"Competent leadership will be vital during the coronavirus crisis, and businesses and the service sector will play a crucial role. But few people have previous experience of such a complex crisis situation."
We need reliable and credible leaders. I encourage you to read this article
Our latest blogs
Read our latest blogs to help you and your firm adjust to the new ways of working:
- Tips for managing a remote team
- It's physical distancing, not isolation
- Caring for your staff in times of stress
What's on
We've moved our events to webinars:
Building and maintaining client relationships in challenging times
1.30pm, tomorrow, Friday 3 April
Facilitated by Keith Dugdale and Jon Huxley of The Business of Trust, learn best-practice tools and ideas on how to build and maintain client relationships in these challenging times. Ask questions and learn from both facilitators and other ACE members on the webinar.
Working more productively at home with Debbie Mayo-Smith
10am, Wednesday 15 April
Learn how to work more efficiently and communicate better with clients, staff and family outside your bubble. Organisational Queen Debbie Mayo-Smith will take you through her top tips and shortcuts for email management, Skype and Microsoft Teams. Free-up time, reduce stress managing email from home, as well as ensure billable hours are not lost.
Data protection essentials with Paul Ramsbottom
10am, Thursday 7 May
Managing Director at Advanced Solutions International, Paul Ramsbottom will explain how to protect data and safeguard your organisation's reputation by mitigating risk. Gain valuable insights to help protect your organisation before a data breach occurs.
Wellington’s post-COVID-19 opportunities
Two Wellington Councillors believe post-COVID-19 opportunities can accelerate the city to a clean, healthy, inclusive and emissions-free future.
Fund infrastructure, not dreams
The Government is being urged to focus on funding infrastructure development and avoid getting side-tracked into overseas-style quantitative or asset purchases.
Recovering from virus pains
There are calls for the Government to build investment momentum to ensure we become more efficient, sustainable and resilient post-COVID-19.
Hospital completion delayed
Ceilings in the yet to be opened $90 million West Coast Hospital have been removed to allow repairs to earthquake restraints on air conditioning units.
Ratepayers brace for a hit
Wellington City Councillors are pondering a possible 9.2 per cent rate rise which would include funding for water pipe replacement and the refurbishment of Civic Square.
Warning for Aussie construction industry
The CE of Australian contractor John Holland is warning that major companies are in severe financial difficulty and the industry as a whole is “close to collapse.”
Massive spending on transport projects
Transport Minister Phil Twyford has committed the Government to a $54 billion spend on transport projects over the next ten years.
Crack on with Kawerau upgrade
The Mayor of Kawerau has urged council staff to press on with spending the district's $20 million PGF funding in case it disappears due to a change of Government.
Emerging Leader Award entries now open
Entries to the ACE New Zealand Emerging Leader Award are now open with applications due by 20 May.
If you or someone you know has a passion for leadership, shows a commitment to professional development and demonstrates exceptional leadership qualities, apply now and find out more.
The winner will receive one year on the ACE New Zealand Board, a cash prize of $1,500 and a contribution of up to $10,000 towards a professional development course or conference.
Stay safe,
Kia pai tō rā, Paul and the ACE New Zealand team
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