Jo Orr
Company: Mott Macdonald
Job title: Technical Director Project Management
About Jo
I am a Chartered Civil Engineer and Project Management Professional who has been working for Mott MacDonald for the past ten years on major projects as a Technical Director.
I studied civil and environmental engineering at the University of Edinburgh, and I have worked in both the UK and New Zealand. I am currently working on Te Kaha – Canterbury Multi-Use Arena. I previously worked for one of New Zealand’s largest construction firms on some nationally significant projects, including Pukeahu National War Memorial Park and Arras tunnel in Wellington.
I have been on the ACE New Zealand Board for the last three years and I am an active and engaged board member. I also sit on the Audit, Risk and Finance Committee for ACE. I would relish the opportunity to continue to develop my governance skills and support ACE on its strategic journey, which I have helped shape.
I have two young daughters and I am passionate about mountain biking and skiing.
Pepeha or whakapapa/family history
Tenā koutou katoa
Kei Northern Ireland,
tōku whānau,
me tōku maunga,
a Sleve Donard.
Kei reira,
a River Lagan,
tōku awa.
Ko, Ōtautahi,
tōku kāinga
Ko Orr, tōku whānau
Ko Jo ahau
I was born in Northern Ireland, studied in Scotland, travelled and have now worked and lived in Aotearoa New Zealand for 12 of the last 17 years. My whānau are spread between Ireland and New Zealand.
What is your strategic vision for ACE New Zealand?
As an existing board member, I was involved in the latest iteration of the ACE strategy that was implemented this year. I fully support the strategic vision to be the consultants champion in Aotearoa. I think that the four pillars of our new strategy (voice, preparedness, excellence and resilient organisation) speak strongly to the strengths and capabilities that the organisation has been building.
- Voice: Now more than ever New Zealand consultants need strong advocates for the needs of the industry and to be having conversations at all levels but especially the top level in government. I would like to see ACE continuing to be brave and bold in speaking out on the key issues that impact our industry.
- Preparedness: ACE should help our consultants feel not only prepared and ready for the future but excited and leading the way. Focus areas should include digital, sustainability, and risk management.
- Excellence: To keep our sector thriving professionally, we need to keep connected and up to date on the global market. This will also help to attract talent. ACE should also continue to focus on its core work around contract provision, helping to support members and advocating for fair contractual terms.
What strengths would you bring to the ACE Board?
Having served as a board member for the past three years, I believe I have brought a balanced mix of energy, enthusiasm, patience and understanding. I have thrived in my governance journey alongside my other highly skilled board members. I believe that a subsequent term would allow me to further develop my skills and contribute even more to the organisation.
Since initially being voted on to the Board, I have qualified as a Project Management Professional through the Project Management Institute. This gave me the confidence to step on to the Audit, Risk and Finance Committee. This role has allowed me to share my knowledge on financial, risk and contractual management.
Outside of my role with ACE, I am a Technical Director with Mott MacDonald. I have developed a deep understanding of the built and natural environment both within New Zealand and globally during my career spanning across both the consultancy and construction industry.
I am a mother of two young girls, and I believe this has added a wealth of skills to my portfolio, including delegation, clear communication, and amazing negotiation skills! They also inspire me to strive to be a better version of myself every day.
What does diversity and inclusion mean to you?
I believe that everyone has the right to work in an environment where they feel valued and respected, regardless of their background, gender, ethnicity, or any other characteristic. I believe a business will thrive and grow when there is a diverse range of people, because they will each bring their unique perspective and experience. This can lead to more innovative solutions and better decision making.
I am a champion of the Inclusive Network for Women at work to help break down barriers and open opportunities for women. We hold events and presentations to highlight issues, discuss challenging situations, and create a supportive network. Our purpose is to encourage more support, collaboration, and promotion of women in our business. We want to influence and champion opportunities for change and improvement, while profiling the amazing work women are doing at Mott MacDonald.
I am proud that the Diversity Agenda was a joint initiative of ACE, and that the ACE Board supports and oversees their governance. Having a neurodiverse child has opened my eyes to the challenges faced by neurodiverse individuals in society. I am committed to being a force for change and ensuring that future generations feel safe and welcomed into our workforce.
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