Rob Napier is Executive Client Lead at Resolve Group and the new ACE New Zealand Regional Champion for Wellington. He aspires to be an effective connector for the regional consulting community. We asked Rob about his career and what he brings to the role.
Tell us about your career
I started my initial career as a Chartered Civil Engineer and project manager in South Africa doing industrial research, design and construction supervision following my graduation in 1994 from the University of Cape Town. I loved working on South Africa’s national road network and military airbases near some pristine surf spots!
In 2001, I moved to Ireland and worked throughout Ireland and the UK as a civil and transportation engineer and project manager. I also completed a business management degree after seeing growth and because of my interest in leading teams and business management.
In 2006, I moved to New Zealand with my young family, and since then I have worked in consulting and contracting roles in Christchurch and Wellington. I have been with Resolve Group since mid-2024.
What are the consulting and engineering strengths of your region?
The Te Whanganui-a-Tara / Wellington region has the diversity typical in New Zealand with a mix of urban and rural populations. Although quite spread out, these populations have the same infrastructure challenges and opportunities as others in Aotearoa, such as population and demographic changes, investment backlogs, and environmental impacts affecting growth and resilience.
One unique aspect of the region is that we are the capital – Go the Hurricanes! – which means we have relatively more direct access to central government, ministries and agencies. These are the policy and decision makers that impact our built and natural environments.
I also love to see the spark in growth and initiatives that often come from immigrants or returning Kiwis who bring the best of their overseas experience to our land and people.
What strengths do you bring to the Regional Champion role?
Connections with people. I have been working in the region since leaving Christchurch in 2010 and so have established many connections – from sole traders and boutique teams to the multi-national consultancies with whom I worked previously.
I have also worked with iwi and community groups in various projects and feel I can connect and translate project efforts for those most impacted or who benefit from them.
I aspire to be an effective connector in our unique regional consulting community. As a community, we need to inspire more positive and enduring kōrero and encourage new entrants, especially our youth, into our career industries.
Tell us something interesting about yourself
I aspire to be a godly man of character. Also, I can usually be found with my family in the surf or skatepark, or mountain biking, hiking or snowboarding somewhere in the country.
What’s the best way for members to get in touch with you?
You can contact me via the ACE New Zealand Our people page.