5 questions with Ash Bradley, Senior Project Manager at WT

WT have proudly built a team of talented professionals who are equipped with experience, insight, and skill in the construction industry. As part of a global consultancy, WT New Zealand offer quantity surveying, project management, and advisory services with offices in Auckland, Wellington, Christchurch and Queenstown.

Across our 5 questions with... series we will be revealing our team's valuable career experiences, approach to work, and advice to build a successful career in construction.

Get to know Ash Bradley, a Senior Project Manager with over 10 years' experience across both public and private sectors having been immersed in a variety of high-profile commercial, government, seismic strengthening, health, and hospitality projects. Ash's proactive attitude propels her to take firm ownership of projects and complete projects to an exceptional standard.

Name: Ash Bradley

Title: Senior Project Manager

WT Office: Wellington

1. Ash, how would you describe your approach to project management?

My approach to consultant project management is rooted in strategic planning, effective communication, proactive risk management, fostering team collaboration, and maintaining an ‘eyes wide open’, holistic view to ensure adaptability at all phases of a project (always be prepared to turn a problem into an opportunity!). I believe these elements are key to successful project outcomes.

2. In your opinion, what are some common recent challenges that Project Managers encounter which may reveal a theme in the New Zealand construction industry as a whole?

Every PM will have a “pet” challenge but at the moment, the construction industry is definitely grappling with shifts in government priorities. The new government has brought about changes in policies, impacting the sector's landscape.

I think most of us in the industry would say the lack of investment in infrastructure and insufficient funding for crucial projects is leading to concerns about the country’s ability to meet growing demands and address pressing infrastructure needs. Moreover, I think we need to stop the short-term thinking in project planning and budgeting and undertake a more collaborative, strategic, and long-term approach to ensure sustained growth and resilience in the New Zealand construction sector.

3. What are your career standouts?

A career standout…gosh! Every fitout, seismic upgrade or build between Dunedin and Palmerston North that I drive past gives me a sense of pride in the value added to clients and their staff, as well as the overall improvements to our building stock for years to come.

Personally, the two standout projects for me have been the fitout of multiple high spec new hospitality outlets to a brand new 5-star resort in Abu Dhabi. The culture, the team and the work ethic embodied by the people I met while I was on that project really reinforced why I enjoy what I do.

The other standout project for me is working on an Animal Shelter in Palmerston North. The extent of security to keep dogs in and owners out rivals a Corrections project!

4. To you, why is working with WT different to working with other project management teams?

At WT we have the opportunity to leverage other disciplines' knowledge and skills, as we offer quantity surveying and advisory services additionally to project management.

Innovation and staff development is encouraged and the banter is top notch – don’t let the serious faces fool you into thinking the team don’t have wicked senses of humour.

5. What is your main advice to other project managers working in the construction industry today?

My advice is, always be working on your communication.

I’m a firm believer in a Project Manager role being 60% communication, 40% technical knowledge and experience. It’s all very well having the technical knowledge and know-how, but if you can’t communicate it effectively to your project team and peers, then you might as well be chasing paper in the Wellington wind…

I advise always asking people about their preferred communication channel or style, as well as asking for feedback on your own! We’re all human at the end of the day, and consistent evolution can be the difference between being good or great.

Ash would like to connect with fellow construction professionals to exchange experiences, knowledge and insights, discuss ongoing projects, and share valuable learnings within the industry.

Contact Ash:

Email: [email protected]

Phone: +64 21 275 2929

Learn more about WT New Zealand at wtpartnership.co.nz