Our people, your projects
Contracting (Secondments)
- We provide more than just “warm bodies” - we deliver high-calibre specialists with an average of 30 years’ of major project experience, who integrate seamlessly into your team. Whether you're ramping up a megaproject or need targeted capability to solve a complex challenge, our embedded professionals bring deep expertise across functions including;
- • Project procurement and contracts • Project controls • Risk and assurance • Project and programme management • Business analysis and technical writing • Project finance • Knowledge management • Project Management Office (PMO) • Operational readiness • Environmental, Social and Governance (ESG) • Stakeholder engagement, community and communications management
- Unlike a recruitment company, most of our team members are employees and we don't typically advertise opportunities given the strength of our network.
- Click the relevant button to see how our team members could help you.
Where has Lawbrook deployed contract (secondment) resources?
- Tier 1 mining company, sustaining capital portfolio, Australia
- Tier 1 construction company, road and renewables portfolio, Australia
- Tier 1 construction company, hospital major project, Australia
- Tier 1 construction company, highrise building megaproject, Australia
- Major energy company, industrial megaproject, Australia
- Tier 1 mining company, mining megaproject, Mongolia
- Tier 1 mining company, major mining study, Europe
- Major port operator, sustaining capital portfolio, Australia
- Tier 1 mining company, mining megaproject, Argentina
- Critical minerals business, sea floor mining study, Australia
- Tier 1 mining company, mining megaproject, West Africa
- Tier 1 EPCM, port expansion mega study, Australia
- Tier 1 mining company, mining mega study, Arizona
- Tier 1 construction company, rail/tunnelling megaproject, Australia
- Tier 1 mining company, aluminium operation, New Zealand
- Tier 1 EPCM, capital project portfolio, Australia
- Tier 1 mining company, IS&T megaproject, Australia
- Tier 1 mining company, renewables portfolio, Australia
Project procurement and contracts
The project procurement and contracts function supports the acquisition and management of goods, services, and construction works on major projects. This function ensures commercial value and compliance with governance frameworks. It involves the end-to-end process of sourcing, negotiating, awarding, and administering contracts that support the delivery of major project scopes.
What role does the function play on a major project?
1. Strategy and PlanningDeveloping Procurement Strategies: Aligning contract packages (EPC, EPCM, or hybrid models) with project risk, schedule, and budget.
Market Intelligence: Understanding the global and regional supply markets, contractor capacity, logistics constraints, and inflationary pressures.
Early Engagement: Working with engineering, construction, and operations teams to define specifications and contract scopes early to avoid delays. 2. Risk Management Commercial Risk Allocation: Negotiating terms and conditions that manage risks such as delays, cost overruns, and quality issues (e.g., liquidated damages, performance guarantees). Supply Chain Risks: Identifying critical-path items (long lead equipment, e.g., SAG mills, haul trucks) and mitigating procurement bottlenecks. Local Content & Compliance: Ensuring alignment with local regulations and community expectations (e.g., Indigenous business participation, local manufacturing quotas). 3. Cost Control & Value CreationBudget Management: Securing competitive pricing through tenders, benchmarking, and negotiation.
Total Cost of Ownership: Not just buying the cheapest item, but considering life cycle costs (spares, maintenance, energy use).
Leveraging Scale: Coordinating global procurement for large volumes of materials (steel, concrete, explosives) to achieve cost efficiencies. 4. Contracting & Supplier Management Defining Contract Packages: Breaking down the megaproject into logical packages (e.g., earthworks, camp facilities, processing plant) that suit the contracting market. Supplier Qualification: Assessing contractor capability, financial stability, HSE performance, and track record. Ongoing Oversight: Managing supplier performance, quality inspections, expediting, and logistics during execution. 5. Schedule AssuranceLong-Lead Items: Tracking and expediting procurement of critical equipment (e.g., crushers, mills, draglines) to prevent schedule slippage.
Interface Management: Ensuring all procured goods and services arrive in sync with construction sequences.
Logistics Planning: Managing complex transportation (e.g., oversized modules, remote site access, port capacity). 6. Governance & Transparency Auditability: Ensuring procurement processes meet corporate governance, anti-bribery, and sustainability requirements. Stakeholder Reporting: Providing cost, schedule, and risk updates to the project leadership and financiers. In summary: Procurement on a megaproject isn’t just about “buying stuff.” It’s about orchestrating a multi-billion-dollar global supply chain, managing commercial risk, and enabling the project to deliver milestones on schedule and budget.
Market Intelligence: Understanding the global and regional supply markets, contractor capacity, logistics constraints, and inflationary pressures.
Early Engagement: Working with engineering, construction, and operations teams to define specifications and contract scopes early to avoid delays. 2. Risk Management Commercial Risk Allocation: Negotiating terms and conditions that manage risks such as delays, cost overruns, and quality issues (e.g., liquidated damages, performance guarantees). Supply Chain Risks: Identifying critical-path items (long lead equipment, e.g., SAG mills, haul trucks) and mitigating procurement bottlenecks. Local Content & Compliance: Ensuring alignment with local regulations and community expectations (e.g., Indigenous business participation, local manufacturing quotas). 3. Cost Control & Value CreationBudget Management: Securing competitive pricing through tenders, benchmarking, and negotiation.
Total Cost of Ownership: Not just buying the cheapest item, but considering life cycle costs (spares, maintenance, energy use).
Leveraging Scale: Coordinating global procurement for large volumes of materials (steel, concrete, explosives) to achieve cost efficiencies. 4. Contracting & Supplier Management Defining Contract Packages: Breaking down the megaproject into logical packages (e.g., earthworks, camp facilities, processing plant) that suit the contracting market. Supplier Qualification: Assessing contractor capability, financial stability, HSE performance, and track record. Ongoing Oversight: Managing supplier performance, quality inspections, expediting, and logistics during execution. 5. Schedule AssuranceLong-Lead Items: Tracking and expediting procurement of critical equipment (e.g., crushers, mills, draglines) to prevent schedule slippage.
Interface Management: Ensuring all procured goods and services arrive in sync with construction sequences.
Logistics Planning: Managing complex transportation (e.g., oversized modules, remote site access, port capacity). 6. Governance & Transparency Auditability: Ensuring procurement processes meet corporate governance, anti-bribery, and sustainability requirements. Stakeholder Reporting: Providing cost, schedule, and risk updates to the project leadership and financiers. In summary: Procurement on a megaproject isn’t just about “buying stuff.” It’s about orchestrating a multi-billion-dollar global supply chain, managing commercial risk, and enabling the project to deliver milestones on schedule and budget.
- What roles does Lawbrook typically provide?
- Procurement Officer
- Senior Procurement Officer
- Procurement Lead
- Procurement Manager
- Procurement Analyst
- Procurement and Contracts Advisor
- Procurement Director
- Procurement Consultant
- For owner's and developers
- Project management frameworks
- Develop project delivery model & contracting strategy
- Conduct tendering activity
- Plan and lead major negotiations
- Manage cost, schedule & contracts
- Project services training/governance
- Audit and assurance
- Setup & keep projects on track
For contractors and suppliers
Procure for LessManage the bid processSupport negotiationsPosition your business to win workUnderstand and manage contractsSetup & keep your projects on track
Project controls
Megaprojects are complex - long timelines, reliance on subcontractors, sometimes remote locations, and high political and environmental scrutiny. Project controls provide the discipline, visibility, and early warning systems needed to:
Stay on Time and Budget - By tracking planned vs actuals across schedule and cost.
Enable Informed Decisions - With real-time dashboards and performance metrics.
Manage Risk and Change - By quantifying impact and enforcing governance.
Maintain Credibility with Stakeholders - Investors, regulators, and partners expect accurate forecasts and proactive control.
Drive Accountability - Through consistent reporting and baseline adherence.
What role does the function play on a major project?
1. Schedule ManagementDevelop and maintain the integrated project schedule (usually in Primavera P6). Perform critical path and float analysis. Monitor and report progress against baseline. Conduct lookahead planning and interface reviews. Support scenario planning for schedule optimisation.
2. Cost ManagementMaintain project budgets and control accounts. Track commitments, accruals, and actuals. Produce regular cost forecasts and cash flow projections. Manage variance analysis and trend monitoring. Provide cost data to support funding decisions. 3. Performance MeasurementTrack earned value metrics (CPI, SPI, EAC, ETC). Maintain dashboards and KPIs for stakeholders. Support monthly project reporting and executive briefings. Identify and investigate performance deviations.
4. Change ManagementSupport quantitative risk analysis (QRA) using tools like @Risk or Primavera Risk Analysis. Administer the change control process, including impact analysis and approvals. Maintain the trending register for potential changes.
5. Systems & IntegrationEnsure integration of time, cost, risk, and scope data. Manage tools such as P6, EcoSys, SAP, Aconex, or other project systems. Validate data quality and resolve discrepancies. Ensure single source of truth for project controls data.
6. Governance & SupportSupport stage-gate reviews, audits, and assurance processes. Provide inputs to decision support packages and business cases. Liaise with project managers, engineering, procurement, contracts, and finance teams. Maintain alignment with project execution plans and funding approvals.
7. Phase-Dependent DutiesDepending on the project phase (Study / FEED / Execution / Commissioning), the focus may shift:Study phase: Estimating, scenario analysis, schedule modeling.Execution: Progress measurement, change management, cost/schedule integration.Commissioning: Transition plans, punch lists, ramp-up tracking.
2. Cost ManagementMaintain project budgets and control accounts. Track commitments, accruals, and actuals. Produce regular cost forecasts and cash flow projections. Manage variance analysis and trend monitoring. Provide cost data to support funding decisions. 3. Performance MeasurementTrack earned value metrics (CPI, SPI, EAC, ETC). Maintain dashboards and KPIs for stakeholders. Support monthly project reporting and executive briefings. Identify and investigate performance deviations.
4. Change ManagementSupport quantitative risk analysis (QRA) using tools like @Risk or Primavera Risk Analysis. Administer the change control process, including impact analysis and approvals. Maintain the trending register for potential changes.
5. Systems & IntegrationEnsure integration of time, cost, risk, and scope data. Manage tools such as P6, EcoSys, SAP, Aconex, or other project systems. Validate data quality and resolve discrepancies. Ensure single source of truth for project controls data.
6. Governance & SupportSupport stage-gate reviews, audits, and assurance processes. Provide inputs to decision support packages and business cases. Liaise with project managers, engineering, procurement, contracts, and finance teams. Maintain alignment with project execution plans and funding approvals.
7. Phase-Dependent DutiesDepending on the project phase (Study / FEED / Execution / Commissioning), the focus may shift:Study phase: Estimating, scenario analysis, schedule modeling.Execution: Progress measurement, change management, cost/schedule integration.Commissioning: Transition plans, punch lists, ramp-up tracking.
What roles does Lawbrook typically provide?
- Project Controls Manager
- Lead Planner
- Senior Planner
- Discipline Planner
- Planner / Scheduler
- Junior Planner
- Lead Cost Controller
- Senior Cost Engineer
- Cost Engineer
- Cost Controller
- Estimating Manager
- Estimator
- Senior Estimator
- Change Manager
Risk management
The function of project risk management on a megaproject is to proactively identify, assess, and control uncertainties that could impact the project’s objectives - typically cost, schedule, scope, quality, and safety.
- What role does the function play on a major project?
1. IdentificationDetect potential risks early across all project domains - technical, commercial, environmental, legal, stakeholder, etc.
2. Assessment and AnalysisEvaluate risks for probability and impact (qualitative) or use simulations like Monte Carlo for Quantitative Risk Analysis (QRA) on cost and schedule.
3. Planning MitigationsDevelop strategies: avoid, transfer, mitigate, or accept. Embed mitigations into project execution and commercial strategies.
4. Monitoring and ControlTrack risk triggers and effectiveness of mitigations. Use tools like risk registers, bowtie analysis, and risk dashboards.
5. Reporting and CommunicationEnsure decision-makers and project sponsors are informed of critical exposures and mitigation performance.
6. Integration with Project ControlsLink risk with contingency, cost/schedule forecasts, and change management.
2. Assessment and AnalysisEvaluate risks for probability and impact (qualitative) or use simulations like Monte Carlo for Quantitative Risk Analysis (QRA) on cost and schedule.
3. Planning MitigationsDevelop strategies: avoid, transfer, mitigate, or accept. Embed mitigations into project execution and commercial strategies.
4. Monitoring and ControlTrack risk triggers and effectiveness of mitigations. Use tools like risk registers, bowtie analysis, and risk dashboards.
5. Reporting and CommunicationEnsure decision-makers and project sponsors are informed of critical exposures and mitigation performance.
6. Integration with Project ControlsLink risk with contingency, cost/schedule forecasts, and change management.
What roles does Lawbrook typically provide?
- Risk Manager
- Quantitative Risk Analyst (QRA) Specialist
- Risk and Assurance Advisor
- Risk Coordinator
- Risk Advisor
- Package Risk Lead
- Risk Systems Administrator
- Workshop Facilitators
Project assurance
The assurance function acts as the project's conscience by constantly asking, "Are we doing the right things, in the right way, at the right time?" It's not just about ticking boxes - it's about enabling project success.
What role does the function play on a major project?
1. Independent OversightPurpose: Provides an objective view of project performance, free from internal biases.How: Conducts independent reviews and audits across schedule, cost, risk, contracts, readiness, and compliance.
2. Risk-Based ReviewsTargets areas with the highest risk of failure, like procurement delays, scope creep, or contractor underperformance. Uses tools like Quantitative Risk Analysis (QRA) and Monte Carlo simulations to assess cost and schedule uncertainty.
3. Gatekeeper for Decision PointsAssures readiness before major investment or execution gates (e.g. Feasibility to Execution to Commissioning). Uses Stage Gate Reviews and Readiness Reviews to confirm that the team is not rushing ahead blindly.
4. Lessons Learned & Continuous ImprovementCaptures what's working and what’s not and feeding back into future phases or projects. Helps build organisational maturity by institutionalising learnings.
5. Stakeholder ConfidenceBuilds trust with executive sponsors, boards, and external investors by validating that the project is being well-managed. Often reports directly to the project steering committee or an independent project assurance board.
6. Course CorrectionFlags misalignment between plans and reality, and recommends interventions. Examples: rescoping, rebaselining, restructuring delivery models.
2. Risk-Based ReviewsTargets areas with the highest risk of failure, like procurement delays, scope creep, or contractor underperformance. Uses tools like Quantitative Risk Analysis (QRA) and Monte Carlo simulations to assess cost and schedule uncertainty.
3. Gatekeeper for Decision PointsAssures readiness before major investment or execution gates (e.g. Feasibility to Execution to Commissioning). Uses Stage Gate Reviews and Readiness Reviews to confirm that the team is not rushing ahead blindly.
4. Lessons Learned & Continuous ImprovementCaptures what's working and what’s not and feeding back into future phases or projects. Helps build organisational maturity by institutionalising learnings.
5. Stakeholder ConfidenceBuilds trust with executive sponsors, boards, and external investors by validating that the project is being well-managed. Often reports directly to the project steering committee or an independent project assurance board.
6. Course CorrectionFlags misalignment between plans and reality, and recommends interventions. Examples: rescoping, rebaselining, restructuring delivery models.
What roles does Lawbrook typically provide?
- Project Assurance Manager
- Review Facilitator
- Audit and Compliance Specialist
- Assurance Advisor
- Assurance Coordinator
- Lessons Learned Facilitator
Project and programme management
Project and programme management serve as the command centre, steering the ship through complexity, scale, and risk. THe primary goal is to deliver the project's scope safely, on time, on budget, and to specification, while aligning with broader business and strategic outcomes.
- What role does the function play on a major project?
Project management is focused on a single project (e.g. the development of a mine site, port, or processing plant):
1. Scope Control Define, manage, and control what’s in and out of the project. 2. Schedule Delivery Plan and monitor timelines to ensure milestones are hit. 3. Cost Management Track budgets and manage change to prevent blowouts. 4. Risk & Issue Management Identify threats early and put mitigations in place. 5. Stakeholder Engagement Keep all players (internal and external) aligned and informed. 6. Resource Coordination Mobilise people, equipment, and services efficiently. 7. Governance & Reporting Ensure compliance, quality assurance, and audit readiness. 8 .Integration Management Ensure all parts of the work are coordinated (engineering, procurement, construction, etc.). Programme management takes a portfolio view, managing multiple related projects to deliver a larger strategic outcome (e.g. a full operational precinct):
1. Strategic Alignment Ensure every project contributes to the long-term business case.
2. Benefit Realisation Track and deliver promised value across the programme lifecycle.
3. Cross-Project Integration Manage dependencies between projects (e.g., timing of infrastructure delivery for plant construction).
4. Optimised Resource Allocation Prioritise funding, personnel, and effort across projects.
5. Adaptive Governance Make decisions at the right level to ensure agility without chaos.
6. Risk Aggregation Understand systemic risks and cascading effects across projects.
7. Change Management Lead business readiness and adoption of project outcomes.
1. Scope Control Define, manage, and control what’s in and out of the project. 2. Schedule Delivery Plan and monitor timelines to ensure milestones are hit. 3. Cost Management Track budgets and manage change to prevent blowouts. 4. Risk & Issue Management Identify threats early and put mitigations in place. 5. Stakeholder Engagement Keep all players (internal and external) aligned and informed. 6. Resource Coordination Mobilise people, equipment, and services efficiently. 7. Governance & Reporting Ensure compliance, quality assurance, and audit readiness. 8 .Integration Management Ensure all parts of the work are coordinated (engineering, procurement, construction, etc.). Programme management takes a portfolio view, managing multiple related projects to deliver a larger strategic outcome (e.g. a full operational precinct):
1. Strategic Alignment Ensure every project contributes to the long-term business case.
2. Benefit Realisation Track and deliver promised value across the programme lifecycle.
3. Cross-Project Integration Manage dependencies between projects (e.g., timing of infrastructure delivery for plant construction).
4. Optimised Resource Allocation Prioritise funding, personnel, and effort across projects.
5. Adaptive Governance Make decisions at the right level to ensure agility without chaos.
6. Risk Aggregation Understand systemic risks and cascading effects across projects.
7. Change Management Lead business readiness and adoption of project outcomes.
What roles does Lawbrook typically provide?
- Project Director
- Senior Project Manager
- Project Manager
- Area Manager
- Package Manager
- Interface Manager
- Construction Manager
- Site Manager
- Programme Director
- Programme Manager
- Programme Coordinator
Business analysis and technical writing
Business analysis and technical writing serve as the connective tissue between strategy, systems, and storytelling.
What role does the function play on a major project?
Function of Business AnalysisBusiness Analysts (BAs) work to ensure that the project's systems, processes, and deliverables align with stakeholder needs and strategic objectives. Key responsibilities include:
1. Requirements gathering Engaging with stakeholders to capture business needs, pain points, and functional requirements.
2. Process mapping and optimisation Analysing existing workflows and designing future-state processes that improve efficiency.
3. Data analysis and reporting Translating raw data into insights to inform decisions and track performance metrics.
4. Solution assessment Evaluating technical and process solutions for feasibility, value, and alignment with project goals.
5. Interface coordination Acting as a liaison between technical teams (IT, engineering, systems) and business users or project leaders. Function of Technical WritingTechnical Writers ensure that the complexity of a megaproject is well-documented, easily understood, and professionally communicated. Key responsibilities include:
1. Documenting systems and processes Creating manuals, SOPs, workflows, and system guides.
2. Producing clear project documentation Includes business cases, user guides, policy documents, training materials, and stakeholder communications.
3. Standardising language and templates Helping the project maintain consistency across complex documentation outputs.
4. Supporting change management Creating content that supports onboarding, system adoption, and procedural changes.
1. Requirements gathering Engaging with stakeholders to capture business needs, pain points, and functional requirements.
2. Process mapping and optimisation Analysing existing workflows and designing future-state processes that improve efficiency.
3. Data analysis and reporting Translating raw data into insights to inform decisions and track performance metrics.
4. Solution assessment Evaluating technical and process solutions for feasibility, value, and alignment with project goals.
5. Interface coordination Acting as a liaison between technical teams (IT, engineering, systems) and business users or project leaders. Function of Technical WritingTechnical Writers ensure that the complexity of a megaproject is well-documented, easily understood, and professionally communicated. Key responsibilities include:
1. Documenting systems and processes Creating manuals, SOPs, workflows, and system guides.
2. Producing clear project documentation Includes business cases, user guides, policy documents, training materials, and stakeholder communications.
3. Standardising language and templates Helping the project maintain consistency across complex documentation outputs.
4. Supporting change management Creating content that supports onboarding, system adoption, and procedural changes.
What roles does Lawbrook typically provide?
- Business Analysis Manager
- Senior Business Analyst
- Business Analyst
- Process Analyst
- Senior Technical Writer
- Technical Writer
- Documentation Specialist
Project finance
The project finance function plays a crucial role in ensuring that the financial structure, funding, and cost control mechanisms are robust enough to support the scale, complexity, and duration of the project. In simple terms: it's the brain (and sometimes the bouncer) of the money side of the megaproject.
- What role does the function play on a major project?
1. Secure Funding
Structure and arrange financing (equity, debt, grants, etc.) to support the capital-intensive nature of the project.
2. Ensure Financial Viability Together with the Business Analyst, assess and monitor the project's financial feasibility, including return on investment, payback periods, and financial risk.
3. Enable Informed Decision-Making Provide financial insights to support scope, schedule, and contracting decisions.
4. Manage Financial Risk Identify, allocate, and manage financial risks (e.g., interest rate exposure, currency risk, funding shortfalls). 5. Project Reporting Develop project finance reports, ensuring decision-makers receive timely data to enable informed decision-making.
6. Maintain Compliance Ensure adherence to financial reporting standards, tax laws, and funding covenants.
2. Ensure Financial Viability Together with the Business Analyst, assess and monitor the project's financial feasibility, including return on investment, payback periods, and financial risk.
3. Enable Informed Decision-Making Provide financial insights to support scope, schedule, and contracting decisions.
4. Manage Financial Risk Identify, allocate, and manage financial risks (e.g., interest rate exposure, currency risk, funding shortfalls). 5. Project Reporting Develop project finance reports, ensuring decision-makers receive timely data to enable informed decision-making.
6. Maintain Compliance Ensure adherence to financial reporting standards, tax laws, and funding covenants.
What roles does Lawbrook typically provide?
- Project Finance Manager
- Project Finance Analyst
- Reporting Analyst
- Finance Advisor
Knowledge management
The knowledge management function is like the project’s memory and intelligence system. It ensures that critical lessons, data, and insights don’t evaporate in the dust of site trucks and contract disputes. It protects the owner’s investment by stopping information from leaking away and ensuring each decision builds on the sum of what’s already known. It’s not just about storing documents; it’s about creating a live, structured, and accessible intelligence system for project delivery.
What role does the function play on a major project?
1. Capturing and Retaining Lessons LearnedEvery major project is a marathon of engineering, procurement, construction, stakeholder engagement, and risk management.Knowledge management ensures that hard-won lessons (e.g., why a shaft sinking contractor underperformed, or how procurement delays were mitigated) are captured in real time rather than “after the fact.”This reduces the risk of repeating costly mistakes on later phases or future projects.
2. Ensuring Information Flow and AccessibilityMajor projects involve thousands of people, dozens of contractors, and petabytes of data.Knowledge management builds the frameworks, repositories, and taxonomies so that people can find what they need, when they need it, whether it’s design documents, contracts, change registers, or safety procedures.Without it, teams often re-invent the wheel, duplicate effort, or make decisions based on outdated information.
3. Supporting Decision-Making and GovernanceKnowledge management functions act as a single source of truth for reporting, dashboards, and evidence that underpin executive and board decisions.By linking technical, financial, risk, and HSEC (health, safety, environment, community) knowledge, knowledge management ensures leaders aren’t blindsided by fragmented data.
4. Facilitating Collaboration Across InterfacesMajor projects are notorious for “contractor silos.” Knowledge management bridges these gaps by standardising templates, taxonomies, and systems.It fosters consistent practices across EPCMs, contractors, and owner teams, so a progress report in Brisbane means the same thing as one in Mount Isa, Lima, or Vancouver.
5. Embedding Continuous ImprovementKnowledge management functions often run “knowledge reviews” after key milestones - feasibility, FID, execution readiness, commissioning.This creates a feedback loop so insights aren’t trapped in one phase (e.g., a commissioning problem feeding back to engineering standards).Over time, this raises organisational capability and reduces delivery risk portfolio-wide.
6. Maintaining Organisational Memory Beyond TurnoverStaff churn is high in mining megaprojects - consultants roll off, contractors demobilise, leadership rotates.Knowledge management preserves continuity so new personnel don’t waste six months rediscovering what the last team already solved.This is particularly critical on projects that run 5–10 years from concept to first ore.
2. Ensuring Information Flow and AccessibilityMajor projects involve thousands of people, dozens of contractors, and petabytes of data.Knowledge management builds the frameworks, repositories, and taxonomies so that people can find what they need, when they need it, whether it’s design documents, contracts, change registers, or safety procedures.Without it, teams often re-invent the wheel, duplicate effort, or make decisions based on outdated information.
3. Supporting Decision-Making and GovernanceKnowledge management functions act as a single source of truth for reporting, dashboards, and evidence that underpin executive and board decisions.By linking technical, financial, risk, and HSEC (health, safety, environment, community) knowledge, knowledge management ensures leaders aren’t blindsided by fragmented data.
4. Facilitating Collaboration Across InterfacesMajor projects are notorious for “contractor silos.” Knowledge management bridges these gaps by standardising templates, taxonomies, and systems.It fosters consistent practices across EPCMs, contractors, and owner teams, so a progress report in Brisbane means the same thing as one in Mount Isa, Lima, or Vancouver.
5. Embedding Continuous ImprovementKnowledge management functions often run “knowledge reviews” after key milestones - feasibility, FID, execution readiness, commissioning.This creates a feedback loop so insights aren’t trapped in one phase (e.g., a commissioning problem feeding back to engineering standards).Over time, this raises organisational capability and reduces delivery risk portfolio-wide.
6. Maintaining Organisational Memory Beyond TurnoverStaff churn is high in mining megaprojects - consultants roll off, contractors demobilise, leadership rotates.Knowledge management preserves continuity so new personnel don’t waste six months rediscovering what the last team already solved.This is particularly critical on projects that run 5–10 years from concept to first ore.
What roles does Lawbrook typically provide?
- Knowledge Manager
- Knowledge Lead
- Information Manager
- Document Control Lead
- Document Controller
- Project Records Manager
- Data and Reporting Analyst
Project Management Office (PMO)
A Programme or Project Management Office (PMO) transforms a major project from being a collection of moving parts into a coordinated, transparent, and accountable system. Without it, megaprojects drift into scope creep, budget overruns, and “too late to fix” surprises.
- What role does the function play on a major project?
1. Governance & OversightSets up and enforces the project’s governance framework (approvals, delegations, reporting cadence).Provides assurance that the project is being delivered in line with the investment case, corporate policies, and stakeholder expectations.
2. Integrated Project ControlsManages cost, schedule, risk, change, and reporting as a unified system.Provides baseline management and variance analysis so leaders can act on facts, not assumptions.
3. Performance Monitoring & ReportingProduces consolidated dashboards, reports, and forecasts for executives, boards, and JV partners.Acts as the single source of truth for project performance data.
4. Knowledge & Information ManagementEnsures information is captured, stored, and shared consistently (document control, lessons learned, data integrity).Maintains project memory despite staff turnover.
5. Support & CoordinationProvides the systems, tools, and processes so project teams and contractors can work in a consistent way.Centralises planning, communications, and administrative support, reducing duplication.
6. Risk & Issue ManagementRuns structured reviews of risks, issues, and opportunities.Ensures mitigation actions are tracked and escalated.
7. Strategic AlignmentKeeps delivery aligned with the business case, benefits realisation, and corporate strategy.Ensures decisions taken during delivery don’t compromise long-term asset performance.
What roles does Lawbrook typically provide?
- PMO Manager
- Programme Manager
- Programme Officer
- PMO Lead
Operational Readiness
Operational Readiness (OR) is the structured process of preparing the people, systems, processes, and assets so that when a major project is handed over, the owner can move seamlessly into operations and achieve the intended performance from day one. It typically starts during feasibility / early execution and runs in parallel with engineering, procurement, and construction. The OR team ensures that while the facility is being built, the operating business is also being built.
What role does the function play on a major project?
Organisation & People: recruit and train the operating workforce, embed competency assurance, establish rosters.
Processes & Systems: develop standard operating procedures (SOPs), maintenance strategies, emergency response plans, and IT/OT systems.
Handover & Completions: define handover criteria, manage punch lists, and make sure the owner receives the data, spares, and documentation needed.
Operations Readiness Reviews: structured gates/checkpoints to ensure the asset is ready to start up safely.
Integration with Commissioning: close alignment with commissioning and ramp-up to ensure smooth transition from construction to steady-state operations.
Processes & Systems: develop standard operating procedures (SOPs), maintenance strategies, emergency response plans, and IT/OT systems.
Handover & Completions: define handover criteria, manage punch lists, and make sure the owner receives the data, spares, and documentation needed.
Operations Readiness Reviews: structured gates/checkpoints to ensure the asset is ready to start up safely.
Integration with Commissioning: close alignment with commissioning and ramp-up to ensure smooth transition from construction to steady-state operations.
What roles does Lawbrook typically provide?
- Operational Readiness Manager
- Operational Readiness Lead
- Operational Readiness Coordinator
- Training and Competency Lead
- HR / Workforce Readiness Lead
Stakeholder Engagement, Community and Communications
On a major project, the stakeholder engagement, community, and communications function is responsible for building and maintaining the project’s social licence to operate. It does this by identifying and mapping all stakeholders - governments, regulators, Indigenous groups, landholders, NGOs, media, employees, and JV partners, and designing tailored engagement strategies that ensure they are informed, consulted, and feel heard throughout the project lifecycle.
The function also manages community relations to ensure the project contributes positively to local economies, employment, and broader social outcomes, while controlling the project’s narrative and reputation through clear, transparent, and proactive communications, both internal and external. Sitting at the interface of social performance, corporate affairs, and project delivery, it acts as the bridge between the project team and the society in which the project operates.on function.
- What role does the function play on a major project?
1. Maintains Licence to Operate – prevents project delays from community opposition, protests, or regulatory pushback.
2. Builds Trust & Reputation – demonstrates transparency, accountability, and responsiveness to concerns.
3. Reduces Risk of Disruption – effective engagement lowers the chance of costly disputes or work stoppages.
4. Supports Approvals & Compliance – engagement outcomes feed directly into environmental and social permitting.
5. Strengthens Workforce & Community Relations – positive relationships help attract and retain skilled workers, contractors, and local suppliers.
6. Enhances Long-Term Value – projects seen as socially responsible are more attractive to investors, JV partners, and future talent.
2. Builds Trust & Reputation – demonstrates transparency, accountability, and responsiveness to concerns.
3. Reduces Risk of Disruption – effective engagement lowers the chance of costly disputes or work stoppages.
4. Supports Approvals & Compliance – engagement outcomes feed directly into environmental and social permitting.
5. Strengthens Workforce & Community Relations – positive relationships help attract and retain skilled workers, contractors, and local suppliers.
6. Enhances Long-Term Value – projects seen as socially responsible are more attractive to investors, JV partners, and future talent.
What roles does Lawbrook typically provide?
- Stakeholder Engagement Manager
- Community Relations Manager
- Communications and External Affairs Manager
- Community Engagement Officer
- Indigenous Engagement Lead
- Local Economic Development Coordinator
- Government Relations Advisor
Environmental, Social and Governance (ESG)
ESG in a project context is the framework and set of practices that ensure the project:
E (Environment): minimises environmental harm, manages carbon footprint, protects biodiversity, and complies with permitting.
S (Social): builds and maintains strong community, Indigenous, and workforce relationships, ensures social licence to operate, and promotes diversity & safety.
G (Governance): enforces transparency, ethics, anti-corruption, and robust reporting against international standards (e.g., IFC, ICMM, UN SDGs).
On a megaproject, ESG isn’t just compliance - it’s woven into design choices, procurement strategy, execution, and operations.
What role does the function play on a major project?
1. Access to Capital – Many lenders and investors won’t touch projects without credible ESG frameworks.
2. Regulatory Approvals & Licence to Operate – Demonstrates to governments and regulators that the project is sustainable and responsible.
3. Risk Reduction – Proactively addresses issues that could cause delays: community protests, environmental incidents, or governance failures.
4. Reputation & Stakeholder Trust – Builds credibility with communities, Indigenous groups, NGOs, employees, and global markets.
5. Operational Efficiency & Cost Savings – Energy efficiency, water stewardship, and waste reduction can reduce long-term operating costs.
6. Future-Proofing – Aligns the asset with global decarbonisation, climate disclosure, and sustainability trends, avoiding stranded asset risk.
2. Regulatory Approvals & Licence to Operate – Demonstrates to governments and regulators that the project is sustainable and responsible.
3. Risk Reduction – Proactively addresses issues that could cause delays: community protests, environmental incidents, or governance failures.
4. Reputation & Stakeholder Trust – Builds credibility with communities, Indigenous groups, NGOs, employees, and global markets.
5. Operational Efficiency & Cost Savings – Energy efficiency, water stewardship, and waste reduction can reduce long-term operating costs.
6. Future-Proofing – Aligns the asset with global decarbonisation, climate disclosure, and sustainability trends, avoiding stranded asset risk.
What roles does Lawbrook typically provide?
- ESG Manager / Lead
- Sustainability Manager
- Environmental Manager
- Climate / Carbon Specialist
- Community and Indigenous Engagement Manager
- Social Performance Specialist
- Reporting and ESG Analyst