CONSTRUCTION PROCUREMENT SUMMIT

24 October 2024 - Doltone House Darling Island, Sydney

Strategies & technologies to unlock cost, increase innovation, manage risk and help sustainability

ABOUT THE EVENT

The construction industry is a highly competitive market where success hinges on efficient operations, cost control, and effective management. Faced with pressure from recent disruptions such as Covid, lengthy supply chain issues, to battling the surging prices of manufacturing costs, the industry is now facing a long-term “reckoning” as rising costs and interest rates bite, with the latest figures from the corporate regulator showing a jump in collapses in the Australian sector. 

Additionally, construction has a major role to play in achieving global sustainability goals. As an industry, construction is directly responsible for approximately 40 percent of CO2 emissions and indirectly responsible for 25 percent of all greenhouse-gas (GHG) emissions. 

Construction companies are now doubling down on procurement as a key driver of improving profitability and navigating uncertainty. 

As the main interface with the construction value chain, the procurement function will need to excel in its dual mission of improving profitability in a volatile environment and meeting sustainability targets. In doing so, procurement will be elevated to new heights as it emerges as a strategic function. 

The Construction Procurement Summit explores how procurement can deliver on its mission of improving profitability, reducing risk and driving decarbonisation and highlight the strategies, partnerships and technologies chief procurement officers (CPOs) can use to achieve success. 

Construction Procurement Summit

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Event Speakers

Meet Our Speakers

Andrew McFarlane

Group Procurement & Plant Manager, McConnell Dowell

Dorothy Matthys Donnadieu

Head of Procurement - Western Harbour Tunnel, Acciona

Errol Bellchambers

National Head of Procurement, DT Infrastructure

Charlotte Nichols

National Lead Engineering Services - Cost Planning & Estimating, John Holland Group

Rebecca Robertshawe

Director Projects & Programmes, Infrastructure Delivery, New Zealand Infrastructure Commission

Ro Coroneos

Principal, Praxis ESG

Cherie Hughes

Executive Group Manager Infrastructure Project Solutions, Major Projects Canberra, ACT Government

Tony Hennessy

General Manager Corporate Services, BMD Group

The Program

The Construction Procurement Summit will bring together senior leaders to discuss the following topics:

THURSDAY | 24 OCTOBER 2024

Conference Schedule

08:00

Main conference registration & morning coffee

09:00

Summit opening remarks

Leon Kantor, Executive Director, FuturePlace
09:05

Chair - Welcome remarks

Join us for a thought-provoking session led by Charlotte Payne the general manager from CIPS, the world’s leading organization for procurement and supply chain professionals in over 200 countries. In this session, our speaker will share valuable insights on best practices in procurement from outside the construction industry, demonstrating how these strategies can revolutionize your construction supply chain. 

Charlotte Payne, General Manager – ANZ, Chartered Institute of Procurement & Supply Chain (CIPS)

PROCUREMENT STRATEGY & BEST PRACTICE

09:15

KEYNOTE ADDRESS: Embedding and successfully managing a multinational procurement and supply chain across several continents

In this keynote we hear from Andrew McFarlane, leading industry expert and Head of Group Procurement for Aveng Group – which includes McConnell Dowell Australia. Managing dozens of employees across 4 countries including a sourcing team in China, Andrew will explore all aspects of his role including:  

  • Human capital – Sourcing and hiring global talent to meet the needs of a multinational contractor 
  • Managing ongoing cost escalations from the perspective of people, plant and materials 
  • Developing and negotiating world class bidding and tendering processes and contracts at scale  
  • Defining procurement success – what does it look like and how to achieve it 
Andrew McFarlane, Group Procurement & Plant Manager, McConnell Dowell
09:35

PROCUREMENT LEADERS PANEL: Future proofing construction procurement: Building a sustainable, resilient, and innovative procurement model 

The construction industry is undergoing a procurement revolution, driven by a focus on sustainability, innovation, and resilience. We’ll delve into building environmentally and socially responsible procurement models, fostering collaborative partnerships, mitigating disruption, and harnessing digital tools. 

  • Developing relationships with your procurement suppliers to ensure quality, on-time delivery and price 
  • Working with key partners to achieve cost control over people, plant, materials and machinery 
  • Building a digital skills pipeline: Assessing strategies for equipping the construction workforce with the digital skills needed to leverage new procurement technologies 
  • How have contract negotiations evolved since Covid and how can they continue to promote efficiency in the tender process? 
Panellists include:
Dorothy Matthys Donnadieu, Head of Procurement - Western Harbour Tunnel, Acciona
Charlotte Nichols, National Lead Engineering Services - Cost Planning & Estimating, John Holland Group
Barry Vining, National Head of Procurement, BMD Group
Luke Cornwill, Procurement Manager, Civ2Con
Facilitated by:
Alastair Blenkin, Chief Executive Officer, ProcurePro
10:10

CASE STUDY: Using Data Analytics to achieve optimal procurement results

In this session we hear from BMD Group who in 2019 underwent a review of their procurement function, as they transformed from a QLD based contractor to national Tier 1. We look at how they reviewed their procurement function to enable significant cost savings as well as optimise their supply chain by working with key suppliers, embedding technology and a focus on their people. 

  • Data Analytics: Reviewing your back-end inputs to centralise input processes and purchase orders to achieve tighter cost controls and procurement visibility  
  • Ceiling Rates: Implementing material procurement rates as well as the use of exceptions and levies to manage rate fluctuations in changing economic circumstances 
  • Travel Management: With over 2,000 flights and 15,000 hotel nights per annum, what innovative approach did BMD employ to manage and reduce travel costs? 
  • Relationship Management: Adopting a two-way approach to developing key relationships with your suppliers and team 
Tony Hennessy, General Manager Corporate Services, BMD Group
Barry Vining, National Head of Procurement, BMD Group
10:30

Networking & exhibition break

11:10

INTERACTIVE ROUNDTABLE DISCUSSIONS

In this session we bring together delegates for a series of 30 minute facilitated round table discussions with leading industry experts. Join the table that most interests you, discuss hot topics and share ideas for solving some of the biggest challenges related to procurement in construction.

Round Table 1: Examining the risk and rewards of direct overseas procurement
Kenneth Lam, Co-Founder and CEO, CAIGO
Round Table 2: Using digital tools to mitigate and protect against supply chain insolvency
Patrick Connolly, Chief Executive Officer, Fiable
Round Table 3: The value of contractor management prequalification for corporations
Bill Kritharas, Partner, Sparke Helmore Lawyers
Jessica Jorgenson, Regional Sales Director – APAC, Veriforce Chas
Round Table 4: Digitising Procurement: Boosting Collaboration & Driving Operational Excellence
Hinc Cetin, Senior Solution Consultant, Ivalua
Round Table 5: Scope 3 - Building transparent, socially responsible and circular supply chains
Tim Lennon, National Environment and Sustainability Manager, DT Infrastructure
Round Table 6: Source to pay digital solutions in construction: bridging market gaps
Amir Hadji, Snr Procurement Manager – System and Process, John Holland
Round Table 7: Responsible sourcing and addressing modern slavery in procurement & suuply chains
Monica Mcsheffrey, Social Sustainability & Partnerships Manager, Landcom
Round Table 8: Making it easier for contractors to work with Government by establishing modern and mature procurement practices
Teresa Scott, Executive Director, Australasian Procurement and Construction Council (APCC)

SUSTAINABLE & RESILIENT SUPPLY CHAINS

11:40

CASE STUDY | Procurement’s strategic impact on evolving industry challenges

The future is here. Procurement is now central to driving successful outcomes for the most important organisational challenges, as well as effecting positive change in the world we live in. Join this session to listen to some valuable insights as to how Felix with CPB Contractors have transformed Australia’s largest contractor to tackle the future. 

  • Supply chain foundations – building blocks of procurement transformation 
  • Enabling projects – how the field is critical to success 
  • Driving change – human behaviour over technology 
  • Changing dynamics of procurement in a sustainability driven world 
Ryan Kirgan, Group Manager, Procurement, CPB Contractors
In discussion with:
Mike Davis, Chief Executive Officer, Felix
12:00

The value of contractor management prequalification for corporations

  • WHS obligations of corporations (PCBUs) 
  • Due diligence obligations of officers 
  • Contractor management 
  • Manage v Monitor and Consultation obligations 
  • Recent developments 
Jessica Jorgenson, Regional Sales Director – APAC, Veriforce Chas
In conversation with:
Bill Kritharas, Partner, Sparke Helmore Lawyers
12:20

Lunch and networking break

13:20

PANEL SESSION: Exploring the macro trends driving new opportunities across construction supply chains

Strong headwinds continue to impact the construction sector. These include lack of productivity – heightened by labour and skills shortages, further compounded by inflation across energy, materials and the prolonged disruptions across global supply chains that are driving costs higher. Finding solutions to these issues has been a priority for industry leaders. In this discussion our panellists will discuss what the industry can do to navigate these challenges and realise the significant opportunities ahead.   

  • Working with your supply chain to ensure consistent supply and quality of materials at fixed prices  
  • Examining the role supply chain plays in procuring more sustainable materials; achieving lower embodied carbon; implementing scope 3 initiatives and minimising waste 
  • Identify strategies for mapping and mitigating risks associated with global geopolitical disruptions, climate change and resource scarcity 
  • Responsible sourcing and how to embed anti modern slavery best practice across your supply chain? 
  • Managing the intersection of regulation and innovation: Interpreting and forecasting regulatory changes to improve supply chains 
Errol Bellchambers, National Head of Procurement, DT Infrastructure
Ro Coroneos, Principal, Praxis ESG
Anthony Abbott, Procurement Manager – Australia, McConnell Dowell
Facilitated by:
Brendan Batch, Head of Enterprise Strategy & Development, Felix

TECHNOLOGY & INNOVATION

14:00

Fireside Chat: Using digital tools to mitigate and protect against supply chain insolvency

In today’s fast-paced and interconnected global economy, supply chain insolvency poses a significant threat to business continuity and stability across all industries. This 20-minute presentation will explore how leveraging digital tools can mitigate these risks. 

  • High level industry stats regarding supply chain insolvency in the construction industry  
  • Ownership of supply chain insolvency risk within construction organisations  
  • Going beyond the PDF report – how digital tools are mitigating supply chain insolvency 
  • Real-world case studies 
James Barta, Director National Operations, Built
Interviewed by:
Patrick Connolly, Chief Executive Officer, Fiable
14:30

CASE STUDY: Embedding new innovation processes and technology

The construction industry has traditionally lagged behind in innovation. This session will explore how to embrace new technologies and processes to revolutionise procurement practices. We’ll delve into areas like Integrated Management Systems (IMS) and explore how AI suppliers and KPI reporting can streamline operations and ensure efficient sourcing. Discover strategies for managing risk and fostering collaboration with indigenous suppliers, all while promoting sustainability through effective materials reporting. 

  • Tech-Powered procurement: How can we streamline everything from sourcing to risk management with integrated systems 
  • Discover how actionable data drives procurement: Learn how clear, concise KPI reporting unlocks data-driven insights to optimise procurement strategies. 
  • Vendor management mastery: Unleash the power of responsible sourcing and collaboration. 
  • Source Smarter, Build Greener: Innovative strategies for sustainable materials reporting and partnerships with indigenous suppliers
Errol Bellchambers, National Head of Procurement, DT Infrastructure
14:50

Afternoon coffee and networking break

COLLABORATIVE PROCUREMENT

15:20

PANEL SESSION: Making it easier for contractors to work with Government by establishing cooperative procurement practices

This session dives into practical strategies for fostering seamless collaboration between government and industry in construction procurement. Government representatives will unveil key initiatives aimed at improving communication and transparency throughout the bidding process and ongoing cost control with contractors. Expert leaders will share their experience and insights into how to create an efficient and successful procurement experience for all stakeholders. 

  • Developing fair risk allocation models for government to procurement for their projects 
  • Strategies for seamless collaboration: How Government and industry can work together better in transparent modern construction procurement processes 
  • Creating standardisation across contracts within the tendering process by developing standard processes and tools 
  • Embedding forward visibility across project pipelines 
  • Developing rewards for good performance and its implications for procurement practices 
Panellists include:
Rebecca Robertshawe, Director Projects & Programmes, Infrastructure Delivery, New Zealand Infrastructure Commission
Cherie Hughes, Executive Group Manager Infrastructure Project Solutions, Major Projects Canberra, ACT Government
Luke Kenny, Chief Executive Officer, Local Government Procurement
Facilitated by:
Teresa Scott, Executive Director, Australasian Procurement and Construction Council (APCC)
16:00

FIRESIDE CHAT: Building Smarter: Procurement strategies for every project size - A conversation with procurement experts

This fireside chat dives deep into the world of construction procurement, offering insights for firms of all sizes. Join Luke Kenny, a procurement leader with a proven track record in large-scale projects, as he chats with industry expert Shivendra Kumar. Together, they’ll explore strategies to navigate the procurement process, optimise costs, and ensure project success. 

  • Large-Scale Efficiency: Unlock cost savings and maximise value on complex projects. 
  • Win-Win Partnerships: Build strong supplier relationships that drive project goals. 
  • Procurement A-Z: Gain a comprehensive overview of the procurement process, from bidding to building.
Luke Kenny, Chief Executive Officer, Local Government Procurement
Interviewed by:
Shivendra Kumar, Managing Director, Shivendra & Co
16:30

Cocktails and networking 

17:30

Close of Summit

Event Ticket Price

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$1095 + gst

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CPS SUMMIT

AUDIENCE PROFILE

The Construction Procurement Summit will bring together senior leaders representing::

  • Contractors
  • Sub-contractors
  • Asset Owners
  • Construction Materials/Manufacturing
  • Engineering firms
  • Technology Providers/Consultants
  • Government Departments

Job Titles:

  • Chief Procurement Officer/Head of Procurement
  • CFO
  • Head of Projects
  • Head of Sourcing
  • Head of ESG
  • Head of Sustainability
  • Head of Contracts
  • Head of Supply Chain

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Showcase

The exhibition is the place to showcase and build new business connections

PARTNERSHIP OPPORTUNITIES

The Construction Procurement Summit highlights the strategies, partnerships and technologies that can be used to achieve success. Partnering is a great opportunity to get your company in front of senior decision makers prioritising investments in this area:

If you are involved in the following areas, our attendees would like to hear from you:

Get Direction to the Event

  • Venue

    Doltone House - Darling Island, Sydney | 48 Pirrama Rd, Pyrmont NSW 2009, Australia

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