Candidate Profiles

Andrew Morgan
Asset Leader Community Facilities
Auckland Council

Andrew (on the left), being presented with his InfraTrain certificate by his Assessor, Theuns Henning

“I currently have a role with Auckland Council as part of a team that develops and coordinates the writing of Asset Management Plans for parks, sports and recreation activities. Formerly with Franklin District Council, I was responsible for the development of the Asset Management Plans for community facilities and corporate property.

“Since the new Auckland Council was created, I have been involved in the consolidation of assets from eight different councils.  This is a very challenging process, and highlights the importance of having solid and robust planning procedures, especially with the increased focus by the Auditor-General on Long Term Plans.

“The National Diploma in Infrastructure Asset Management recognises the skills and knowledge which asset managers need to write an effective Asset Management Plan.  It is structured to go through the processes of asset planning step by step, through a combination of theory and practical tasks.

“The theoretical knowledge is provided through the International Infrastructure Management Manual and the NAMS seminars.  I have regularly attended these seminars since 2000, and have always found them very topical and relevant to local Government work, particularly around optimised decision making, asset valuation and levels of service.

“The National Diploma is suitable for new and experienced asset managers.  As someone who has been involved in the asset management profession for over 15 years, it has been a practical way for me to reinforce my knowledge and to have my skills formally recognised.  And it will enable those who are newer to the profession to develop well-rounded skills which will benefit them throughout their career.

“I have now completed the National Diploma in Infrastructure Asset Management, and would encourage others to do the same.  It is regarded by NAMS as the benchmark for competency of asset managers in New Zealand, and is the ideal way to formalise your existing experience, knowledge and skills.”

Clement Reeve
Transportation and Roading Asset Manager
Papakura District Council

“One of my key responsibilities is to develop the Transportation and Roading Asset Management Plan for Papakura District Council.  I decided to work towards the National Diploma in Infrastructure Asset Management because it will help to ensure we are working in line with industry best practice.

“The National Diploma has given me more confidence and certainty around developing an advanced asset management plan.  It keeps me keeps me up to speed with the latest industry requirements, and encourages a whole-of-life approach, for example through the development of maintenance and renewal strategies in relation to deterioration modeling. 

“My learning experience for the National Diploma has been very good.  I have my own mentor, who helps to structure my learning and keep me focused.  The theoretical component of the National Diploma is supported by a series of seminars organised by the NAMS Group.  

“The Council asset management plan is constantly evolving, and the transition of Auckland into a ‘Super City’ will raise a whole new range of issues in the future.  Working towards a nationally-recognised qualification will help to prepare me for the challenges that lie ahead.”

More profiles to come