The Competitive Contractor

The Competitive Contractor

By Shivendra & CoBusiness
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The Competitive Contractor episodes

  • Episode 50 - Shivendra Kumar - From Pandemic Panic to Transformative Times | The Competitive Contractor Podcast

    In this special edition, we're celebrating not just a number, but the journey of resilience, learning, and community building that started back in 2020. We began amidst the uncertainty of a global pandemic, providing practical tips and strategies to navigate unprecedented challenges. Today, we dive deeper, exploring emerging trends and cutting-edge topics with industry heavyweights.

    In this episode, we're not just reminiscing; we're looking ahead. We discuss the evolution of the competitive contractor, the importance of adapting in a rapidly changing industry, and the role of visionary leadership. Our guests share insights and stories that redefine what it means to be at the forefront of construction and engineering.

    Join us in raising a toast (or a protein shake!) to the future, as we commit to another 50 episodes of empowering change and leading innovation.


    Connect with us!

    Shivendra Kumar: https://www.linkedin.com/in/shivendra-kumar/

    Shivendra & Co: ⁠⁠⁠⁠https://www.linkedin.com/company/shivendraandco/⁠⁠⁠⁠

    Website: https://shivendra.com


    6 min
  • Episode 49: Kris Caplice - Gazing Upward from the Gutter | The Competitive Contractor Podcast

    In this insightful episode, we explore the rapidly evolving construction industry, delving into the critical role of technology as a fundamental business tool.


    Kris Caplice, the visionary Executive Director of Resource Services Group, shares his expert perspectives on adopting cutting-edge practices like AI, emphasising the need for businesses to stay ahead in this dynamic sector. We also discuss the scope of transformation beyond tech advancements, including shifts in contractor models and adapting to new work cultures, particularly remote work post-COVID.


    He highlights the significance of collaborative teamwork and effective leadership in nurturing talent for business growth. Additionally, we delve into AI's predicted role and the importance of valuing people over technology in the construction industry.


    Connect with our Host and Guest!

    Shivendra Kumar: https://www.linkedin.com/in/shivendra-kumar/

    Shivendra & Co: ⁠⁠⁠⁠https://www.linkedin.com/company/shivendraandco/⁠⁠⁠⁠

    Website: https://shivendra.com/


    Kris Caplice: https://www.linkedin.com/in/kris-caplice-99555b17/

    Resource Services Group (RSGx): https://www.rsgx.com/

    49 min
  • Episode 48: Peter Colacino - The Policy Puzzle: Are some pieces still missing? | The Competitive Contractor Podcast

    Peter Colacino, Principal at Modifica Advisory, discusses the transformative power of supply chains as prominent contractors shift towards efficient project delivery strategies. Discover how the construction industry addresses challenges such as workforce diversity, digital adoption, and productivity amidst a surge in major infrastructure investments.


    Gain insights into the comprehensive concept of social impact, encompassing community engagement, sustainability, and more. Unravel the complexities of the Voice referendum's implications on the industry and the importance of long-term planning for sustainable solutions.


    Connect with our Host and Guest!

    Shivendra Kumar: https://www.linkedin.com/in/shivendra-kumar/

    Shivendra & Co: ⁠⁠⁠⁠https://www.linkedin.com/company/shivendraandco/⁠⁠⁠⁠

    Website: https://shivendra.com/


    Peter Colacino: https://www.linkedin.com/in/peter-colacino-68a3021b/

    41 min
  • Episode 47: Caroline Wilkie - Creating Pathways to a connected Australia | The Competitive Contractor Podcast

    Caroline Wilkie, CEO of the Australasian Railway Association (ARA) shares insights shaping the industry's sustainable future. Discover how rail outshines road travel, aligning with net-zero goals while boosting efficiency through interoperability. Explore the allure of rail for shorter routes, reliability, and work-on-the-go possibilities. Gain strategic insights into long-term planning, overcoming workforce shortages, and the transformative potential of high-speed rail and innovative technologies like Hyperloop. Delve into balancing local content and national needs and the impact of infrastructure funding.

    Connect with our Host and Guest!

    Shivendra Kumar: https://www.linkedin.com/in/shivendra-kumar/

    Shivendra & Co: ⁠⁠⁠⁠https://www.linkedin.com/company/shivendraandco/⁠⁠⁠⁠

    Website: https://shivendra.com/


    Caroline Wilkie: https://www.linkedin.com/in/caroline-wilkie-92673460/

    Australasian Railway Association (ARA): https://www.linkedin.com/company/austrail/

    Website: https://ara.net.au/

    46 min
  • Episode 46: Robert Sobyra - All Risk No Reward: Fixing the building industry’s profitless boom | The Competitive Contractor Podcast

    Robert Sobyra, Head of Policy at the Australia Constructors Association (ACA), dives into pivotal construction challenges. Amid ongoing projects, the industry grapples with issues like insolvencies and material price escalation, impacting operational efficiency.The discussion revolves around the "All Risk, No Reward" report, triggered by the construction sector's pandemic-driven upheaval. Discover how this report uncovers unique risks within the building sector, spotlighting a risk concentration in the head contractor segment. Learn how pandemic-related support inadvertently extended existing challenges.Robert highlights the importance of Early Contractor Involvement (ECI) and the role of government entities as catalysts for industry-wide improvements. Uncover strategies for mitigating risks, enhancing industry practices, and fostering a healthier, more sustainable construction sector.

    Connect with our Host and Guest!

    Shivendra Kumar: https://www.linkedin.com/in/shivendra-kumar/

    Shivendra & Co: ⁠⁠⁠⁠https://www.linkedin.com/company/shivendraandco/⁠⁠⁠⁠

    Website: https://shivendra.com/


    Robert Sobyra: https://www.linkedin.com/in/robert-sobyra/

    Australian Constructors Association (ACA): https://www.linkedin.com/company/australian-constructors-association/

    Website: https://www.constructors.com.au/

    41 min
  • Episode 45: Treaven Martinus - Is local capability the answer to igniting a brighter future? | The Competitive Contractor Podcast

    In this captivating episode, Treaven Martinus, the visionary CEO and founder of Martinus, is a prominent player in the infrastructure industry. Together, we explore the challenges and opportunities within the sector, specifically focusing on the dynamic realm of rail.

    Throughout the podcast, Treaven shares invaluable insights and experiences, shedding light on the key factors contributing to his company's remarkable success, Martinus. From the power of a growth mindset and strategic investment in people and capabilities to the significance of engaging local businesses and embracing a team-of-teams approach, listeners gain valuable lessons for thriving in the competitive landscape of the infrastructure industry.


    Connect with our Host and Guest!

    Shivendra Kumar: https://www.linkedin.com/in/shivendra-kumar/

    Shivendra & Co: ⁠⁠⁠⁠https://www.linkedin.com/company/shivendraandco/⁠⁠⁠⁠

    Website: https://shivendra.com/


    Treaven Martinus: https://www.linkedin.com/in/treaven-martinus-61b25612/

    Martinus: https://www.linkedin.com/company/martinus-rail/

    Website: https://www.martinusrail.com.au/


    45 min
  • Episode 44: Sam Barr - Game Changers: Industry leaders rewriting construction's future | The Competitive Contractor Podcast

    Sam Barr, Director of Knowledge Mobilization at the Global Infrastructure Hub, emphasizes the criticality of incorporating sustainability practices into the construction industry. Contractors proactively adapt procurement, materials, and supply chains to align with broader sustainability goals. Barr emphasizes the need for construction leaders to prepare for macro trends like the UN Development Goals and net-zero targets. He highlights the role of technology, particularly InfraTech, as a catalyst for the industry's future. However, full adoption of InfraTech remains challenging, requiring government support through regulatory frameworks. Tune in to learn more about positive workplace diversity changes and the essential role of long-term planning, talent development, and investment in innovation for the industry's sustainability and success.


    Connect with our Host and Guest!

    Shivendra Kumar: https://www.linkedin.com/in/shivendra-kumar/

    Shivendra & Co: ⁠⁠⁠https://www.linkedin.com/company/shivendraandco/⁠⁠⁠

    Website: https://shivendra.com/


    Sam Barr: https://www.linkedin.com/in/sam-barr-00ba1124/

    Global Infrastructure Hub: https://www.linkedin.com/company/global-infrastructure-hub/

    Twitter: https://twitter.com/gi_hub

    Website: https://www.gihub.org/


    49 min
  • Episode 43: Jonathan Cartledge - Are solutions to today's problem the key to a brighter future? | The Competitive Contractor Podcast

    Delve into the pressing issues affecting project outcomes and costs in the construction industry. Join us as Jonathan Cartledge, CEO of Consult Australia, sheds light on the challenges and opportunities within the industry. Discover the importance of creating a collaborative supply chain and positioning Australia as a global centre of excellence. Cartledge advocates for a holistic approach encompassing aspects such as culture, diversity, and digitalization. Explore how collaboration and innovation can drive progress and overcome obstacles like risk allocation in the construction industry.



    Connect with our Host and Guest!

    Shivendra Kumar: https://www.linkedin.com/in/shivendra-kumar/

    Shivendra & Co: ⁠⁠https://www.linkedin.com/company/shivendraandco/⁠⁠

    Website: https://shivendra.com/


    Jonathan Cartledge: https://www.linkedin.com/in/jonathancartledge/

    Consult Australia: https://www.linkedin.com/company/consult-australia/

    Website: https://www.consultaustralia.com.au/


    50 min
  • Episode 42: Ian Hudson - Capability Crossroad: Can the construction industry continue to deliver? | The Competitive Contractor Podcast

    Explore strategies to enhance the capacity and capability of contractors in the construction industry. Join us as we converse with Ian Hudson, Executive Director of Industry Capability Network (ICN), as he delves into topics such as prefabrication, specialized tools, and building an attractive employer image to overcome capacity challenges. Discover the crucial role of digitization in cost savings and efficiency improvement. Learn how retention and upskilling through micro-credentials can address the labor shortage. Gain insights into the importance of long-term planning, capacity balancing, and improving management practices for sustaining businesses and mitigating risks in the construction industry.

    Connect with our Host and Guest!

    Shivendra Kumar: https://www.linkedin.com/in/shivendra-kumar/

    Shivendra & Co: ⁠https://www.linkedin.com/company/shivendraandco/⁠

    Website: https://shivendra.com/


    Ian Hudson: https://www.linkedin.com/in/ihudson/

    ICN-NSW: https://www.linkedin.com/company/icn-nsw/

    Website: https://icn.org.au/icn_nsw/


    44 min
  • Episode 41: James Goodwin - Are Industry Associations helping the industry step up or fall behind? | The Competitive Contractor Podcast

    Explore the role and impact of industry associations in shaping the trajectory of the construction industry. Are they effective in driving innovation, collaboration, and progress? Or do they inadvertently hinder growth and hinder adaptation to changing market dynamics? With his extensive experience and leadership in the aviation sector, James Goodwin provides valuable insights into the challenges and opportunities industry associations present. As the CEO of the Australian Airports Association, James brings a unique perspective on how associations can facilitate growth, foster partnerships, and advocate for the industry's collective interests. Gain valuable knowledge about construction industry associations, industry growth, collaboration, and market dynamics in this insightful podcast hosted by James Goodwin.

    Connect with our Host and Guest!

    Shivendra Kumar: https://www.linkedin.com/in/shivendra-kumar/

    Shivendra & Co: https://www.linkedin.com/company/shivendraandco/

    Website: https://shivendra.com/


    James Goodwin: https://www.linkedin.com/in/jamesgoodwinairports/

    AAA: https://www.linkedin.com/company/australian-airports-association/

    Website: https://airports.asn.au/

    50 min

About The Competitive Contractor

From the publisher's feed

On this podcast, you will find content designed to help businesses in infrastructure construction.