New Zealand YP Section Holds First Leadership Breakfast Event in Christchurch
The New Zealand PIANC Young Professionals (YP) Section recently held their first ‘Leadership Breakfast’ event in Christchurch (23rd July 2025). The event brought together 25 young professionals eager to hear from leaders in the port and maritime sector about their career journey, with the hope of inspiring their own.
The event, expertly organised by our Deputy YP, Jess Wood, was kicked off by our YP Lead, Andrew Brown who gave an overview of PIANC, the YP-Commission and reflected on his involvement as the APAC Vice Chair and international events such as the World Congress in Cape Town and recent Biennial Technical Visit in Busan.
We heard from Matt Sheppard, Ports & Coastal Engineer at BECA, on his decade of experience in the marine sector, spanning construction, design, and contract management, across multiple countries. He gave his insights on both the contractor and consultant sides of the industry, which sparked a good discussion.
To warm up in chilly Christchurch, ‘Posh Porridge’ and barista coffee was served up, allowing an interlude for networking. This was followed by a last-minute speaker change due to sickness in the form of Paul Westaway, Service Line Leader for Ports & Marine at WSP, who gave an impromptu overview of his career, the differences he sees with management versus leadership, and what is takes to be an influential leader of teams and clients in our industry.
Further details of the event can be found at the PIANC AU-NZ LinkedIn and website:
