Seasoned Leader of Complex Programs, but a Technologist at Heart
Jay draws upon his experience managing and directing large and complex global wastewater and eco-cities programs to successfully drive a collaborative team approach to solve complex programmatic, technical, economic, social, and environmental issues. “I have a diverse background stemming from a start as a Refinery Design Engineer,” says Jay, explaining how he eventually sought out the complex programs and drew parallels of the technological innovations and advances that make large programs a success. “I will consider myself a Technologist for the rest of my life.”
His technical prowess is attributed to his ability to look beyond technical proficiency and into his team’s psychological dynamics - and then use this insight to shape the application of his leadership strategies and proactively manage either the risks or the opportunities involved in complex programs.
From leading a diverse international team in Australia for Sydney Water Corporation’s City Odour Upgrade Alliance Program to delivering major international eco-cities involving sustainable infrastructure, water/wastewater facilities, and building development, Jay brings a problem-solving mindset to execution and to successfully delivering something that will long outlast him and be part of an impactful legacy.
Pathway to Shared Experiences
Jay looks at each program opportunity as a pathway to share joint experiences, learn about each other, grow each other’s knowledge, skills and communications while building a better sustainable environment and collaborative and inclusive workplace. His delivery approach and execution is informed by hands-on, working knowledge of the complex interactions between water, wastewater and reuse related process designs, constructability, procurement, permitting, financing, program controls, technology innovations, stakeholder accountability and outreach, and operations.
A great communicator, Jay looks to commission a team, setting goals for each individual and functional area of the program. I look for “coaching, mentoring, and knowledge transfer opportunities”, says Jay, as this is the only way “we maximize our effectiveness and become more innovative for the clients we serve.”
Strategic Partner as Part of the Program Mission
What drives Jay more than anything else is a relentless focus on understanding client issues – and solving them. He says, “a strong team combines talent with an acute sense into what keeps the client awake at night, and proactively solutions ideas to address those challenges.”
Jay reflects on one of his most memorable programs, San Mateo Clean Water Program in California, for which he received a Career Achievement Award. “I worked hand-in-hand with the client, we were equal partners,” says Jay, and through this partnership, we saved the City more than $250 million using technology and turned a 20-year program into a 10-year program. “This added real value from lessons learned to deliver a successful program.”
Through this lens, he partners with the client and their stakeholders from the beginning and drives an outcomes focused approach delivering on the goals of the program. Being part of a solution that will deliver a sustainable legacy, not just part of a process that will deliver a built artefact changes his role from a consultant to strategic partner.