Interview with Amber White

Could you tell us more about your background and how you ended up working in infrastructure advisory?

My background, growing up, was actually leaning more towards performing arts. However, my decision to study engineering at university was driven by a desire to solve problems and contribute to making things better.

Shortly after completing my degree, I headed abroad for a few years to gain experience delivering projects as an engineer/project manager on the London rail network. ?On my return?to Australia, I worked for large technical engineering consultancies. My desire for variety, cleaner boots, and interest in more commercial issues spurred me on to work in infrastructure advisory, and through my network, I met some of the leaders of E3 Advisory, which had just been established. I jumped at the opportunity to help develop the business in a growing area.

What do you love about your job, and how have you overcome some of the more challenging moments in your career?

I love working with exceptional people and E3 Advisory has allowed me to work with such a clever group with strong values, both internally and through its client base.

I also love that I get to work on a variety of interesting infrastructure projects which ultimately contribute to better social outcomes. I would say I have overcome the most challenging moments of my career by never giving up, seeking advice where I need it, and importantly, in trusting my instincts.

Reflecting on your journey and achievements leading to this promotion, could you share with us how your unique blend of skills and experiences will enhance the value you deliver to our clients in your new role as Principal?

I have had the good fortune to work on many major projects in Australia and abroad including energy, rail, road, and water projects across the full project lifecycle and for both client-side, consultancies, and contractors. I have worked in developing upfront strategy and in supporting delivery of projects, with a commercial lens. This unique, diverse experience has given a strong appreciation of the various drivers of each and the lessons that are carried across from each project.

E3 Advisory and yourself are playing an increasingly important role in the energy transition. Could you share how your skills and experiences have positioned you to contribute to this critical area?

E3 Advisory provides access to a smart, dynamic, and passionate group of people, who have worked extensively across a spectrum of projects. We have expertise in developing enterprise-wide strategic plans, bespoke project delivery strategies, commercial strategies, transaction management, and dispute resolution, which collectively support our clients achieve their strategic objectives in the energy transition.

My diverse experience in infrastructure, combined with my direct involvement in energy projects, positions me to bring a holistic and informed approach to E3 Advisory’s role in the energy transition. We don't just adapt infrastructure solutions; we tailor them to the unique challenges of energy projects to drive forward-thinking and sustainable outcomes.

What are you most looking forward to as you embark on this next phase of your career as a Principal at E3 Advisory?

I am most looking forward to using my platform to help others achieve their growth aspirations, in the same way I have been supported by the leaders of E3. I am also looking forward to making new connections internally and with our clients as our business further expands in the energy sector.

What’s your life like outside of work, and what are your views on work-life balance?

Family is very important to me. I have 2 children Rita (aged 6) and Freddie (aged 3) with my husband David who is an Associate Professor at UNSW. We both enjoy our challenging professional lives but also believe that our performance at work is founded on the environment at home so we take time to nurture this and of course pay our children the time that they need and deserve. My view on work-life balance is that this phrase is actually misleading because it makes it sound like it is a zero-sum game — that prosperity at work must be at the cost of something at home. I take a more holistic view and healthy approaches to both are necessary to overall success in life.?

Do you have any advice for our readers, particularly other women working in the infrastructure industry?

Women tend to be given a lot of advice, but my experience is that men have the greatest opportunity to support women’s advancement in this industry - to achieve gender balance that results in great work culture and long-term outcomes. Male Champions of Change is a great organisation that supports this.

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