Preconstruction is the cornerstone of successful construction projects, where strategic decisions set the foundation for efficient, cost-effective, and sustainable project delivery. Track 3 of the Future of Construction Summit focuses on innovative practices in estimation, bidding, design, procurement, and preconstruction sustainability—all vital for ensuring timely project completion, controlling costs, and achieving high-quality outcomes.

Join leading experts from across the construction and infrastructure sectors as they share cutting-edge strategies and insights into how preconstruction processes are evolving to drive profitability, reduce risks, and support sustainable practices. This track will also highlight how advanced technology and collaboration can streamline the preconstruction phase, bringing projects to life with greater precision and agility.

Whether you’re involved in project estimation, procurement, sustainability planning, or bidding, Track 3 offers valuable knowledge and best practices to enhance your competitive edge and deliver better results.

Check the Track 3 dedicated sessions:

Day 2 | Wednesday 21st May, 2025

11:20

PRECONSTRUCTION

TRACK 3:
PRECONSTRUCTION 

Estimation, bidding, design, procurement & preconstruction sustainability strategies to drive profitability and timely delivery

11:20

Chair’s welcome remarks:

Pamela Bell, CEO, New Zealand Institute of Building (NZ)

11:30

PANEL DISCUSSION: PRECONSTRUCTION INNOVATION - Cultivating a culture of excellence through innovative processes within preconstruction

In this session we explore how general contractors can work better with trades to create more aligned and accurate project estimates and control. By Identifying and creating an environment allowing innovation to thrive with a focus on quality, transparency, partnership and safety. - The process of innovation and the importance of documentation - Working together to identify challenges and develop holistic and intelligent solutions - Understanding and analysing how trades develop their estimates at a granular level to mitigate contingency costs that you have already factored into your own contingency plan - Identifying potential budget shortfalls with trade contractors for early impact analysis and resolution - Conducting pre-qualification discussions with trade contractors to minimize the likelihood of trade contractor budget shortfalls and reduce risk

Rod Burger, Pre-construction Manager, Richard Crookes Construction
Mark Falconer, Preconstruction & Sustainability Manager, Douglas Construction & Engineering
Martin Fenn, Director, MMCi & MMC Lead, CIOB
Moderated by:
Leah Singer, Director, Entwine

12:10

SPECIAL ADDRESS: Industry Regulation - Where is it headed and will it cost more?

We are currently seeing the states and territories breaking ranks on adopting change in various areas of the National Construction Code, including energy efficiency, that could result in differing regulatory regimes across the country. We are also seeing a more intense approach to compliance based on the number of major building failures seen in various jurisdictions. This is resulting in legislative changes to mandate the use of product technical statements to support compliance and this also bring forward the changing digitalisation in the industry. In this session we uncover the implications of this and a positive way forward.

Lindsay Le Compte, Managing Director, Le Compte Advisory and, Former General Manager, Construction Supply Chain Council

12:30

PANEL DISCUSSION: Construction procurement and supply chain best practice

Navigating Australia’s construction procurement and supply chain challenges: Investigating alternative methods of procurement to ensure the completion of projects on time and on budget The global construction supply chain is grappling with skilled labour shortages, an ageing population and geopolitical disruptions, leading to material scarcities and increased costs. This session will dissect the complexities of current global supply chain issues and offer strategies for resilience. Discover how the best in the business are managing effective supply chains through innovation, risk mitigation and adapting to the global logistical challenges of modern procurement best practice. - Examining the implications on Liberation Day and its impact on global construction supply chains - Future proofing preconstruction and construction procurement, by building sustainable, resilient, and innovative procurement models - Connecting procurement systems to commercial and quality controls to maximise cross function value - Strategically sequencing to take long-lead items into account and reduce the impact of delays on the overall project timeline - Embedding responsible sourcing and addressing modern slavery concerns across your procurement supply chains - Human capital – How can we hire train and retain staff to meet the demands within a tight employment market?

Andrew McFarlane, Group Procurement & Plant Manager, McConnell Dowell
Rebecca Robertshawe, Director Projects & Programmes, Infrastructure Delivery, New Zealand Infrastructure Commission (NZ)
Teresa Scott, Executive Director, Australasian Procurement and Construction Council (APCC)
Moderated by:
Lindsay Le Compte, Managing Director, Le Compte Advisory and, Former General Manager, Construction Supply Chain Council

13:30

Networking luncheon and exhibition viewing

14:30

PRECONSTRUCTION

TRACK 3:
PRECONSTRUCTION 

Estimation, bidding, design, procurement & preconstruction sustainability strategies to drive profitability and timely delivery

14:30

INTERACTIVE ROUNDTABLE DISCUSSIONS

In the third of the Roundtable Discussions we bring together Preconstruction focused audience members to participate in a 30-minute interactive roundtable discussion, led by multiple industry experts on a number of pertinent topics and industry themes. Join the table that most interests you and discuss the latest opportunities and industry trends and brainstorm solutions to common challenges with likeminded individuals. Roundtable 1: Optimising preconstruction outcomes with a continuous design & constructability review process Led by: Rula Alatia, Preconstruction Manager, Icon (NZ)

Rula Alatia, Preconstruction Manager, Icon (NZ)

Roundtable 2: Maintaining effective cost controls across the preconstruction and estimation phase of projects Led by: Guilain Chevreul, Senior Finance Manager, Acciona
Guilain Chevreul, Senior Finance Manager, Acciona Australia

Roundtable 3: Examining why ESG plays a key role and is crucial to the effective pre-construction outcomes Led by: Leah Singer, Director, Entwine
Leah Singer, Director, Entwine

Roundtable 4: Digitalising the supply chain and procurement function within construction Led by: Dean James, Digital Design Manager, Richard Crookes Constructions
Dean James, Digital Design Manager, Richard Crookes Constructions

Roundtable 5: Driving preconstruction improvement through the use of digital technology and processes that improve efficiency and effectiveness of project delivery teams Led by: Paul King, Director, Solution Engineering, Bentley Systems
Paul King, Director, Solution Engineering, Bentley Systems

15:10

PANEL DISCUSSION: Working better with your team, subbies and clients

Unlocking success by creating strong subcontractor and client relationships that enhance preconstruction outcomes - Discover the transformative power of investing in subcontractor relationships, as essential partners for future success - Gain insights into how subcontractor relationships become a strategic advantage in the market - Explore the potential for favorable pricing agreements, joint cost savings plans, and collaborative efforts to enhance quality and safety - Building client confidence in your organization to enable the negotiation of deadlines - Creating an integrated, collaborative project team, including designers and contractors

Rula Alatia, Preconstruction Manager, Icon (NZ)
Errol Bellchambers, National Head of Procurement, DT Infrastructure
John Anderson, CEO, DT Infrastructure
Brett Nilsen, Head of Major Projects & Programs, Australia & New Zealand, Aurecon
Moderated by:
Adam Jasczyk, New Business Manager NSW, BESIX Watpac

15:50

Chair’s closing remarks

Pamela Bell, CEO, New Zealand Institute of Building (NZ)

16:00

Closing networking reception and final exhibition viewing

Join us for the final opportunity for delegates, speakers and exhibitors to connect, network and share a drink

17:00

Close of FCON25

Know the Track 3 assigned speakers:

Sessions & Speakers

Why attend Track 3:

  • Gain Practical Insights: Learn best practices from leading industry professionals on how to enhance project outcomes through effective preconstruction management
  • Improve Efficiency & Accuracy: Discover innovative tools, processes, and strategies for better estimation, bidding, and procurement in the preconstruction phase
  • Drive Sustainable Outcomes: Understand the importance of integrating sustainability goals early in the process, reducing environmental impact and meeting regulatory requirements
  • Collaborate with Experts: Engage in interactive roundtable discussions to solve common challenges and share strategies with like-minded professionals
  • Future-Proof Your Projects: Stay ahead of industry trends, from the latest in procurement innovation to the growing role of digital tools in project delivery

Track 3 offers critical knowledge and actionable strategies to optimise the preconstruction phase, ensuring your projects are delivered on time, on budget, and with maximum profitability.

Secure your spot today and be part of the conversation shaping the future of construction.