Australian Robert is an accomplished international player in the construction industry with two decades of success leading multi-million dollar infrastructure projects and initiatives. He is currently the Vice-President, Infrastructure for leading Canadian construction company, Graham Construction & Engineering. Based in Toronto, they provide engineering and construction solutions for industrial and infrastructure projects.

Robert started his tertiary education in South Africa and graduated with a Bachelor of Science degree from the University of Cape Town. He holds a Master of Commercial Law degree from Macquarie University, Australia and after initially starting his second masters in International Business from the University of Wollongong in Dubai (UOWD), he subsequently transferred to UOW Australia to finish his degree. 

During his studies at UOWD, he learned how to understand the challenges and opportunities that are presented to him, to collaboratively develop solutions based on his own experience and those of others and to continually challenge the status quo.
  
“My focus on tertiary education as well as peer interaction and the opportunity to learn from the experiences and perspectives of other students, provided me with a holistic learning experience and prepared me to confidently take on roles within the global business sector”, he explained. 
Just like anyone else, Robert faced some challenges in the early stages of his career. 

“Initially, I really struggled with being impatient.  Knowing what you want to achieve is essential, but one also needs to recognize that change takes time.  I have learned that there are many ways of achieving an objective and that constructive engagement, collaboration and respect is as important as the goal itself.” 

Robert’s motto in life is “With Challenge Comes Opportunity”, and he is certainly living up to this adage as he is continuously looking for new challenges. He recently pursued an exciting opportunity that involved setting up a new business in Canada and admitted that it is one of his career highlights. The skills and expertise he gained over the years enabled him to turn it into a flourishing enterprise.  

“I keep reminding myself that each challenge brings rewards and it is an opportunity to learn and grow. However, you can’t achieve anything without the support of an effective and inspiring team – each and everyone’s expertise counts”, commented Robert.

Prior to his role as Vice-President, Robert has held executive positions in the construction industry in the UAE, Kuwait, Indonesia, Australia and Canada.