Samuel Simpson
Company: BCD Group
Job title: General Manager of Operations
What Regional Chair position are you interested in? Waikato
About Samuel
I am the General Manager of Operations at BCD Group, bringing 14 years’ experience in New Zealand’s engineering sector. A chartered structural and civil engineer, I am widely respected for my professionalism, strategic thinking, and results-driven approach. I combine strong technical expertise with sound business acumen, consistently delivering high-quality outcomes for clients.
Known for my results-orientated leadership and clear communication, I excel in both collaborative and independent roles. I am a natural mediator and motivator, fostering team collaboration while maintaining focus on project goals. My ability to think laterally and solve complex problems under pressure makes me a trusted leader. I lead by example and I am committed to integrity and follow-through, priding myself on doing what I say I will do.
Pepeha or whakapapa/family history
Originally from county Tyrone in Northern Ireland, I moved to New Zealand in 2012 with the view of staying in New Zealand for one year. Thirteen years later, I am now a proud New Zealand resident. I have settled in the Waikato with my wife, our little girl and our chocolate labrador.
I have become established in the community through my involvement in social, sporting and community activities since arriving in New Zealand. It is through these activities, as well as involvement in the engineering sector, that I have built a tight knit community, which makes the Waikato feel like home.
What strengths do you bring to the Regional Chair role?
I believe the Regional Chair role should be held by someone who is passionate about our industry, sees its potential, and can drive meaningful action. I bring a deep commitment to engineering and the vital role we play in shaping communities by creating spaces where people live, work, and thrive, not just for today but for future generations. As a proud engineer, I value the privilege of contributing to our built environment.
I’m often seen as a connector, someone who brings people together to achieve shared goals. My strong communication skills and collaborative approach help foster open dialogue, which I believe is essential to advancing consulting excellence in our region.
Through my role at BCD Group, I regularly engage with both public and private sector clients, as well as a broad range of industry stakeholders. This has given me a well-rounded perspective on the challenges and opportunities we face.
I’m driven to see a more consistent, resilient, and equitable industry — one that can adapt to evolving economic and regulatory landscapes. I’m ready to lead with purpose and help shape a stronger future for our profession.
How would you support ACE's mahi in your region?
I plan to reinvigorate the Waikato region by building strong relationships with local consultancies. I believe strengthening these connections will amplify the region’s voice nationally and enable a more informed, critical lens on current challenges. My goal is to help shape a set of focused, actionable objectives that align with and enhance ACE New Zealand’s existing strategic work.
Agility is essential. As government priorities shift, regulatory pressures grow, and environmental demands intensify, our ability to respond quickly and effectively will be key to supporting ACE's mission. Providing real-time, region-specific insights will ensure national strategies remain grounded in what is happening on the ground.
Over the past few years, I have actively engaged with Hamilton City Council, Tauranga City Council, Engineering NZ, and ACE to improve systems and information flow, initially from the perspective of BCD. I now see a broader opportunity to embed that momentum into the regional narrative and drive meaningful change across the sector.
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