SYDNEY Interview
Meet FACCI's NSW President: Philippe Vincent
Discover the interview of Philippe Vincent, President of FACCI NSW Chapter.
The French-Australian Chamber of Commerce is pleased to introduce you to our NSW Chapter president. Discover the exclusive interview of Philippe Vincent, in which he describes his role and experience.
What is your career background?
"Educated as an Engineer in France, I decided to complete my studies at UNSW where I obtained a Master Degree in Management and Engineering. I joined the Vinci group in 2003 as a graduate engineer and progressed through the company enjoying the opportunities to experience a wide range of roles in Operations, Design and Business Development. I am now in charge of Menard Oceania the geotechnical division of the group, we are operational on many flagship infrastructure, residential and environmental projects across the regions."
When did you join FACCI?
"The Vinci group has been a Patron member of FACCI for over 10 years, I joined the NSW council in 2019 and got involved in the organisation of Renewable Energy events also actively following all the events organised in the Infrastructure space. Over the years I have also enjoyed attending the Business Forum, the annual Gala and many other interesting meet ups organised by FACCI."
What was/were the reasons/motivations for which you wanted to get involved?
"I met at FACCI a community of dynamic and friendly professionals. I enjoy the opportunities to both widen my network in my industries as well as create relationships with other businesses in other industries such as Finance, Law, HR, IT and etc. This in turns supports me in being a better manager as well as provide various learning opportunities for my team."
What are your role and mission at FACCI?
"I have recently been elected NSW President and continue to take an active role in the support of the organisation of renewable energy as well as Infrastructure events. My mission is to support FACCI to promote business between French and Australian companies."
What is for you, the key for success?
"Achieving success often requires acceptance of failure (past and future!). Despite this it is the will to continue trying and importantly to learn and improve that can help in achieving success. In a team of people or a network of professionals like FACCI it is often about finding ways to interest and motivate all involved."
What (project/event/meeting/feedback…) are you the most proud of or are you looking forward to achieve?
"I am proud of the Resources and Energies team we have managed to set up and the quality of the events that thanks to all we managed to organise in a very short timeframe"
What is the most challenging/biggest challenge for you?
"At this time of social distancing we are to find new ways for the FACCI members to get involved and continue to widen their networks. The operational team has been incredibly creative and positive throughout though and it is very encouraging to see."
What is the main upcoming project/event in your state?
"We are currently working on our next Renewable Energy event on the topic of Clean Hydrogen in Australia which will be held in partnership with Engineers Australia. Despite the constraints of physical distancing associated with the Covid environment, we managed to attract over 300 delegates which is nearly 4 times the interest we usually obtain in conventional gatherings."