INFRACAST

Areas of discussion Market capacity Fuel pricing Labour shortages Ongoing market restrictions Importance of confidence Impact of low economic growth Resilience of the low cost carriers Resources https://www.linkedin.com/feed/update/urn:li:activity:6652962252913729536/

The Endeavour Programme has developed an artificial intelligence technology that can be applied to improve the performance of major projects. Key takeaways: Throughout history, the construction industry has rapidly adopted ‘mechanical’ technology, but the management and design of projects is still dominated by humans using programmes such as excel, primavera and autocade An AI machine is like a mechanical mind. It uses billions of data points to predict the probable time and cost outcome of a project in ways that humans simply cannot do By gaining a greater understanding of this probable outcome, humans (AI machines don’t make choices!) can make more informed management decisions throughout the project lifecycle Used correctly, AI allows Governments to better understand the requirements of a project, and make better decisions on how it will allocate resources to match social need Important decisions now need to be made at the policy level. The data generated from infrastructure is valuable.  Where Government has paid for the infrastructure, it should have open access to that data

Clare is an award-winning environmental expert and sustainability strategist. Key takeaways Although widely used, sustainability is a jargonistic word which is not immediately self-explanatory.  ‘Wellbeing’ (social, indigenous, economic and environmental) is a term people can more closely relate to, measure and understand If the key project evaluation tools are economic (GDP contribution/IRR), the infrastructure delivered will prioritise these requirements (at the expense of broader long-term wellbeing) Government is responsible for setting the strategic wellbeing framework for large scale capital projects – the market then delivers to these standards.  However, pressure from the business sector remains a key driver of business and government wellbeing practices The shift to a wellbeing (or sustainable) approach requires a top-down and bottom-up cultural shift.  This can only be achieved through focused, structured and timely wellbeing training Episode references: https://nz.linkedin.com/in/clare-feeney-b96926b https://www.clarefeeney.com/ https://esst.institute/

Key takeaways: A Portfolio is the totality of an Organisation’s investment required to achieve its strategic objectives. An Organisation can have one or multiple Portfolio’s depending on its business model. A Program is a temporary organisation structure created to coordinate, direct and oversee the implementation of a number of related Projects. Program’s deliver outcomes and benefits related to and aligned with an Organisation’s strategic objectives. A Project is created for the purpose of delivering one or more business outputs according to a specified business case. Projects can be stand alone or form part of Program. Operated effectively, the layered approach: Provides leadership will a single line of sight from strategy to output. Allows an organisation to clearly set out, monitor and evidence how it will achieve its stated strategic aims. Provides quantifiable data for performance reporting and progress Enables effective risk management across all levels

Richard is the Global Head of Infrastructure at KPMG where he leads a team of nearly 3,000 people.  Richard is an authority within the infrastructure industry. Key takeaways: Infrastructure drives quality of life – society functions on the strength of its infrastructure Covid, and the rising societal awareness of climate change, is releasing the ability of Governments to be more radical than ever before Governments and the industry are facing three key challenges: How to prioritise investment How to leverage technology to improve delivery How to increase the long-term skills and resilience of the construction industry The quantum and speed of infrastructure funding required now outstrips the resources of Government – unlocking the trillions of dollars available from the private sector is a priority The energy (renewables) and transport (electrification, digital connectivity and automation) sectors are being transformed – the burning platform now exists to make wholesale changes to these markets Sustainability is a global issue – climate change cannot be isolated to a single industry or geography

Following the publication of “Know your options” Frank joined us to discuss what level of private sector participation a government can and should have in delivering long-term infrastructure projects. Key takeaways Although ‘Traditional’ models are compared to PPP, all models involve some level of private sector participation. This begs the question: What is the right level of participation for a specific project? To find the ‘optimal’ approach, Government must first agree and rank its objectives for a project. Common objectives often include the desire to transfer risk but deliver at the lowest possible cost – these are conflicting and need to be ranked to find an optimal solution The status quo must always be tested. External events (economic growth, Covid-19, new policy) result in constantly changing objectives for Government.  The right level of private sector participation two years ago may not be the right level now Soft market testing can provide confidence in a new approach in a timely and efficient manner. For the cost of a coffee, potential issues with an approach can be identified early, and addressed before being released to the wider market

Following his excellent article ‘A 10 Point Public-Private Partnership Plan for National Economic Recovery in the USA’ (link in comments) David joined us to discuss the state of the infrastructure in the USA and how the acceleration of PPP programs can provide a solution. Key takeaways: For decades, investment into new build infrastructure, or maintenance of existing infrastructure, has been deferred. This policy has created a modern-day infrastructure crisis in the US The level of investment now required is substantial, even within the context of the US economy Unless projects cross state boundaries (such as roads or bridges), the States control how infrastructure is procured. States operate autonomously in relation to State issues. Therefore, there are potentially 50 different approaches to how infrastructure is procured Taxation is central to the American psyche.   Convincing the public or politicians to invest now and take the long-term social or economic view on payback is extremely challenging PPPs can be a solution to the crisis, but work is required to create a unified approach and provide investors with the confidence to enter this complex market Article link: https://www.linkedin.com/pulse/10-point-public-private-partnership-plan-national-economic-baxter/?trackingId=dwLntuny8xEpNmYa7WeMMg%3D%3D

In this episode, we are joined by the team from Conexig to take an in-depth look at the infrastructure market in Latin America.   Key takeaways Covid has significantly impacted economies across the region – with GDP expected to fall by 10% in 2020  Across the region basic infrastructure is not fully developed. Although this creates a strong pipeline of opportunity, there are several sizable barriers preventing infrastructure delivery Politics dominates the infrastructure market with major international projects (such as Mexico International Airport which was in construction) being cancelled due to political pressure Corruption remains prevalent. The ongoing implications of Operação Lava Jato (commenced in March 2014) led to thousands of warrants and arrests across the region including Peru, Brazil, Colombia, Panama, and Mexico. The market is full of opportunities but it is both complicated and complex. Major international contractors have learned the hard way that local knowledge and insights are critical to success

This is the podcast version of our recent videocast https://youtu.be/EDnCJWurQIs Key conclusions We do not know where the bottom of the market is. However, we have seen upward curves in the US (Domestic) market, Europe (pre-lockdown), Mexico, Russia, and China.  Private aviation is also performing strongly Consistency of Government policy in relation to travel bans, quarantine & pre-departure testing, and the economic recovery are all key to restarting the industry 2021 will be a turbulent year but we can expect to see: More airline failures Further staff reductions if conditions do not improve Asia leading the global economic recovery Airline fleets being righted size to reflect market conditions Potential opportunities for new entrants into specific markets Recording date: 30 October 2020 (pre-second wave of lockdowns across Europe) Subscribe to our mailing list and receive a copy of the slides used in the presentation - http://eepurl.com/higlMj  

The Economics of Infrastructure | Nigel Wilcock - Executive Director of the Institute of Economic Development and Managing Director of Mickledore  In today’s episode, we are joined by Nigel Wilcock to discuss the economics of infrastructure investment. This is a timely conversation as governments are increasingly turning to infrastructure to kick-start economic growth.  Key learnings The relationship between infrastructure and economic growth is clear – the economies of Rotterdam (Euro Ports), Dubai (Airport), or Lyon (TGV) would not have their global status without the infrastructure investment which has occurred No one single asset class will transform an economy – Government needs to examine where specific infrastructure is required (roads, rail, utilities, broadband, etc) and invest accordingly Governments, Developers, and Users (the ‘Three-Legged Stool’) all have different roles to play in the delivery of infrastructure – and this may change based on the nature of the asset being delivered  Demand analysis is complex and extremely difficult to predict. Government policy, technology, or public sentiment all impact long-term demand for infrastructure. Accurately predicting demand is central to long term economic planning and success 

Following his excellent article “RIP CBD. We’re coming home” (https://medium.com/@mattylawrence/rip-cbd-were-coming-home-2afe40f0c9ca), we discussed with Matty the future of the post-Covid CBD and the development of local business hubs: Key takeaways: It is important to distinguish between the CBD and the City. CBDs will change but not necessarily at the expense of the City The need for central office space remains (for some the office is a crucial working environment) but the purpose of the office is likely to change – with an increased focus on social interaction, meetings and collaboration Space requirements are likely to decrease, placing pressure on landlords. Agents, tenants and landlords need to work together to develop flexible lease structures We are likely to see a significant growth of local business hubs, providing formal but flexible working facilities close to home There are significant opportunities for both the employer and employee. Employers can reduce accommodation costs and improve productivity and retention rates.  Employees can take a hold of their lifestyle, be empowered to deliver their work effectively and interact more closely with their local community

What makes an Airport City? | Max Hirsh, Managing Director of the Airport City Academy Max is an authority on the development of Airport Cities.  He is MD of the Airport City Academy, has a PhD from Harvard in Architecture & Planning and is a Research Fellow at the University of Hong Kong. He is also the developer of Airport Urbanism: a customer-focused approach to developing airport real estate and planning the airport area In this fascinating discussion Max provided a step by step guide to Airport Cities and explained why they are so important to an industry trying to recover from Covid and protect itself from future black swan events. Key takeaways: Airport Cities take many shapes. Although Schiphol, Helsinki and Singapore are all ‘Airport Cities’, they all look and feel different in nature Airport City investment is key for ongoing revenue diversification. Real estate provides new ‘non-passenger’ revenue streams which cushion asset owners and investors against the other unavoidable risks of the aviation industry A successful Airport City works in zones. The Core, catering for leisure or business travel, is accessible by foot.  The wider area, including cargo, logistics and manufacturing, remains within the proximity of the airport and is accessible via a short taxi ride or public transport Multiple factors are required for an Airport City to be successful, but these can be summarised into: People, Place, Partnership and Position

INFRACAST | GCC Construction & Projects Market Update | Colin Foreman, Deputy Editor, Meed.com In today’s show we were joined by Colin Forman from MEED – the go-to news agency for all project and construction news within the Middle East.  Colin has been writing about the GCC for over 17 years and is an authority on the subject.  To begin, Colin took us through how the GCC market has performed has a whole during Covid and then provided detailed analysis of each of the individuals states. Key takeaways: Broadly, the construction and project market has continued during lockdown, with some delays due to site access and supply chain management Although existing projects continue, the number of awards during lockdown has significantly reduced – leading to potential issues into 2021 and beyond Major PIF backed projects in KSA are continuing, with ex-pats increasingly being allowed to deliver work remotely The delay to Expo 2020 in Dubai could potentially help the economy restart in 2021 ADNOC remains the driving force for projects in Abu Dhabi, although it is driving price reductions across its projects The outlook in the remaining GCC states remains challenging Looking forward, we also discussed the potential for governments to look again at PPP models and whether an Olympic bid could be the catalyst the market needs.

The hotel and hospitality industry has been decimated in 2020 but, thankfully, we are beginning to see some green shoots of recovery.  David Singleton, Partner at Socius Group, sat down with us to provide practical examples of how leading hotel operators are encouraging guests back into their establishments. Key findings: The industry is crucial to the global long-term economic recovery Due to their economic importance, hotels can be treated as a standalone infrastructure asset class The relationship between the asset owner and operating brand will be influence by multiple factors, but the strength of this relationship is key to long-term success Hotels cannot rely on room sales alone, and increasingly must become destinations in themselves Air B&B has impacted the industry, but there is room for a diverse range of offerings Those hotels who are recovering from Covid are doing so by focusing on customer service and providing the best possible experience - this is very simple to say, but very difficult to achieve.  

Many of us have thought about leaving the big 4 and taking the plunge on our own.  We dream of a life without timesheets, admin or utilisation targets! However, is this reality?  We sat down with Jon Davies, (http://www.jondaviesaccountants.co.uk/) formally of EY and BDO, to see what life was really like on the other side of the fence.  We discussed a range of topics but focussed specifically on how transferable his Big 4 skills were and, probably more importantly, what skills he didn’t have - and how he went about getting them.

In this episode we are taking an in-depth look at the world of Airport Slot Management.   As soon as you scratch the surface of this topic you quickly understand how crucial (and valuable) Airport Slots are.    This is an extremely complex process but thankfully we had Chris Bosworth, the former Managing Director of Airport Coordination Limited – the world's largest airport slot coordinator - to guide us through.  Graham Lake and Peter Lynam from Five Aero also joined us to provide additional context and explain how the whole process links into the overall passenger journey.  

We are back with Graham Lake and Peter Lynam from Five Aero to discuss the impact of aviation on the environment. This is a contentious issue so we spent time looking at why aviation is perceived to have such a negative environmental record, the progress the industry has made over the past decades and some simple steps which could make aviation greener. Not forgetting Covid, we also discussed how governments are attaching a range of environmental conditions to the billions of bail-out funding they are providing to the industry.  

In this episode we are very lucky to be joined by Matt Horobin from Abu Dhabi Airports Company to discuss the import role of branding and marketing within the aviation industry.  We covered a wide range of topics within our 30 minute discussion including how marketing is used to connect with the customer, how airports themselves are now viewed as a destination and how operators are reacting to the increasing demand for a personalised experience.

On this episode we interview Mark Daniel from Real Life Career Advice (https://reallifecareeradvice.com/) on how you can get your next job within infrastructure. Mark’s practical advice is invaluable.  We discuss the skills required to find a job, where to look, how to use LinkedIn, the difference between a CV and a Cover Letter and how to work with recruiters.  We also go deeper into managing the frustration of the job search process, how to maintain momentum and how you can keep on track until you find your next position.

In this episode we are talking to Ross McKenzie on the topic of Smart Cities. We have been guilty of rolling our eyes at the phrase “smart cities”, but Ross was fantastic. We talked about how smart cities need to focus on solving the problems citizens face on a day-to-day basis, the issues and challenges of greenfield and brownfield sites, the role technology can play - but also the significant benefits that can be generated through good master planning or stakeholder alignment.

In this episode we talk with Nick Gorman from Summit Advisory on the concept of Total Airport Management (TAM). We discuss how TAM works as an operating model -  how is uses data to support better decision making, improve operational performance and ultimately grow the bottom line.

At last we are seeing the very fragile first green shoots of recovery - with restrictions being eased and a (very limited) number of planes back in the sky.  We have therefore teamed back up with Peter Lynam and Rowland Hayler to take an in depth look at the future of the aviation passenger experience. We look at each stage of the journey - from pre-flight preparations, arrival at the terminal, check-in, security, the lounge, F&B and Duty free, boarding, in-flight and arrival.  We also look at all the latest industry guidance and discuss some of the potential solutions airlines and airports could use to overcome the challenges presented. 

We are taking a break from aviation to bring you an interview with Alec Wicht, Senior Consultant at CBBG Group on the impact Covid 19 will have on the construction claims industry. We discuss how the industry in responding, whether Covid is a force majeure event and outline some practical steps parties should be taking to mitigate the impact of the crisis on their projects. #stayathome   NB: All comments and thoughts expressed in Infracast are the specific views of the individual.  They do not necessarily represent the views of any respective employer.  Specific professional and/or legal advice should be taken in relation to any construction claim.  

The Aviation Market: The Complete Overview In the next in our aviation specials we interview the team from Five Aero (https://www.fiveaero.com).  There are some seriously big hitters at Five Aero – the level of insight and experience they bring is unparalleled. We discussed everything from Air Navigation Services, the role of the ICAO, carbon offsetting and emission targets, the future of the passenger experience, how governments, airports, airlines and passengers all need to work together to manage the current and future pandemics, contingency planning, destination capacity, new investors entering the market and the all important question of when passenger numbers will recover. Enjoy this one and stay safe. #stayathome

In the next of our aviation specials, we interview Chris Tarry from CTAIRA - The Specialist Aviation Consultancy.  Chris spent over 15 years as an aviation analyst, before establishing CTAIRA in 2002.  His experience includes advising airlines, manufacturing companies, airport owners, government bodies, banks and other financial institutions on a wide range of strategic, financial and aviation market related issues. During our discussion, we took an indepth look at the economics of the airline industry.  We talked about how much cash airlines are currently burning through on a daily basis, the impact of the increase in air freight prices on the bottom line, what is happening to share prices and who will ultimately survive this crisis.  We also spoke at length about the impact of aviation on the global economy, and why government support is crucial to this sector.  It was also great to welcome back Chuks Nwabineli to the co-host chair for this fascinating discussion.  #stayathome

In the next of our series of Aviation Specials we interview David Studden.  David is an aviation specialist, working in the industry for nearly 20 years. In this discussion we look at the new challenges Covid-19 has brought to the safety and security of our skies. We ask who is responsible for ensuring only healthy passengers fly, and what steps do government, airports and airlines all need to take to restore confidence in air travel? Into the fifth week of lockdown here at Infrascast HQ but we are still all healthy and well - we hope you are too.  #stayathome NB: All comments and thoughts expressed in Infracast are the specific views of the individual.  They do not necessarily represent the views of any respective employer.

In the next of our series of Aviation Specials, we interview David Baxter.  David is a friend of the podcast and international expert on PPPs – you can check out our previous discussion with David here (https://podcasts.apple.com/gb/podcast/infracast-unlocking-ppp/id1438355004?i=1000421547151) In this discussion we focus specifically on the impact Covid-19 is having on Airport PPPs and the steps all parties, including governments, sponsors and financiers should be taking to ensure the long-term viability of these crucial pieces of economic infrastructure. We are entering the fourth week of lockdown here at INFRACAST HQ.  It’s difficult but we are getting there.  Hope you are all well and looking after each other.   #stayathome

In the next of our series of Aviation Specials, we interview Marc Bourgade, CEO of Flying Solutions. Marc is a long-term financier and strategic advisor to the industry.  In this discussion we look at the consequences of the crisis on Airlines, Leasing Companies, Banks, Investors, Manufacturers and Airports.  In the short term its is not good news, but go on to identify the glimmer of hope coming from China, how the industry can regain passenger confidence and the lessons it must learn for the future.  We are still healthy at Infrascast HQ, we hope you are as well.  #stayathome

INFRACAST: AVIATION SPECIAL Covid-19: How quickly can aviation recover? In this first of a special series of aviation-focus podcasts, we are talking to Richard Connelly, Principal Consultant at York Aviation (https://www.yorkaviation.co.uk/) on the current crisis facing the aviation industry. We look at the size of the challenge facing the industry, how this compares to SARS, 9/11 and the GFC, the timeframe for recovery and the steps the governments, airlines, airports and the supply chain need to take. We are all safe and well here at Infracast HQ – hope you are as well. #stayathome

This week Infracast is joined by Rob Leigh from Summit Advisory who explains how understanding the difference between a Portfolio, a Programme and a Project can directly impact your year-end bonus!  

In this episode I am joined again by Chuks Nwabineli to talk about the human characteristics that can result in project failure and, more importantly, what we can do to fix them. 

We are back with Season 2! This week we are delving into the world of air cargo.  What is a Freight Forwarder vs Express Integrator? How exactly does that package get from a warehouse to your house within 3 working days? What is the future of the market - particularly for airport and airlines?

Today we are speaking to Patricia Sulser - Chief Counsel at International Finance Corporation. In the first 10 mins Patricia a brilliant overview of the function and structure of the world bank. In the second part, Patrica discusses the findings from here book on delivering PPPs in developing world http://www.iflr.com/pdfs/IFC-Book-May-17-2018.pdf  

On today’s show we are talking with Sashen Guneratna from PWC’s Capital Projects and Infrastructure Group in Canada. Sashen provided a great overview of the market, how it has grown from the crash of 2008 and the significant pipeline of opportunities now available.  He then dived into the specifics of the healthcare and transport sectors and finished up by providing an insight into just how competitive the funding market is in that part of the world.

Hi everyone This week I am talking and old work colleague and great friend Thomas Wetula. This was a great insight into the role of the Bid Director - looking at what they do, the various approaches and the pressure they work under.  At the end of the discussion, we also touch on the current size of the Australian market and some of the mega projects that are being delivered down there. Enjoy.

This week we are talking to @grahamolver about the range of skills and experiences you can gain from a career in Infrastructure, and why this may be a better option than spending two years (and $100,000) on an MBA. We also discuss the steps you can take to grow and expand your career, and the transferable skills you will develop to take you onto your next role.  

The podcast dedicated to all things infrastructure