2022 Annual Review

2022 was a notable year for SMEC, characterised by the performance of our people around the world. In Australia and New Zealand, I was proud to see our commitment to client service recognised at the Beaton Client Choice Awards. Across all our global business units, SMEC continues to raise the bar and set new benchmarks for client service. 

 

The year saw another step up in fee growth and profitability. Australia and New Zealand had an outstanding year and was successful in winning significant projects such as the Sydney Metro, Stations, Systems, Trains, Operations and Maintenance (SSTOM) package. We are also delivering the design for the largest road project in Australia, North East Link. In the Middle East, we are progressing design on two NEOM projects, Trojena and Sindalah. In India, construction of Noida Airport is well underway, with ambitions to become one of the most sustainable aviation facilities in the world. In South Africa, we are continuing to deliver complex road infrastructure projects, as the premier international infrastructure consultant in the country.  

 

It has been encouraging to see an increasing number of employees returning to the office and connecting in person again. With the resumption of international travel, it was great to have the opportunity to visit some of our global offices and meet various clients, colleagues, and
industry partners.

 

A five-year strategy

In 2022, SMEC launched a five-year strategy which will guide the next phase of our growth. Our strategy is aligned with the Surbana Jurong Group strategy and delivers a clear road map to grow sustainably and achieve our long-term organisational goals. 

 

It was a pleasure to have the opportunity to present SMEC’s five-year strategy to colleagues in different parts of the world. The enthusiasm and positive feedback received from our people indicated an overwhelming sense of support for the strategy and a readiness to embark on the action plans. 

 

I feel an incredible sense of purpose when talking with our people about the future. With enhanced focus on key enablers such as client relationship management and employer of choice, SMEC is well positioned to lead our industry into a new era of sustainability and digital transformation.

 

Redefining our purpose 

Leveraging over 70 years of history, our people are driving world-class technical excellence in Renewables, Water, Transport and Urban Communities. It is a privilege to work with our leadership team to forge a more connected community, both within SMEC and across our house
of brands. 

 

Our purpose sits at the heart of our culture and values, transcending multiple sectors and geographic markets. We strive to create a flexible, diverse, and inclusive environment that enables our people to reach their fullest potential. Every day we make a difference to people’s lives; creating and connecting communities for present and future generations to thrive. 

 

Looking ahead

As economies navigate supply chain issues, inflation, and rising interest rates, SMEC is well prepared for the challenges that lie ahead. Despite some signs of softening markets, SMEC is buoyed by a strong pipeline of work and diversification of revenue across the government and private sector. As markets recalibrate post pandemic, SMEC will need to rely on astute management and operational flexibility to achieve anticipated growth.

 

The ability to form partnerships continues to be an important necessity in project delivery. It is testament to our reputation that SMEC has established a trusted network of partners, with whom we are collaborating to deliver some of the most ambitious mega engineering projects. 

 

In 2023 we will continue to strengthen our global design capability in our core markets and increase the level of collaboration across various regions, in the pursuit and delivery of megaprojects. Greater emphasis will also be placed on proactively identifying people who are keen to work on these megaprojects.   

 

As illustrated by the projects featured in our annual review 2022, SMEC continues to expand our credentials in digital design and sustainability. Guided by the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals we are embracing digitalisation to drive positive sustainable change across our portfolio. SMEC has applied smart technology to enhance the sustainable management of transport infrastructure as well as optimise water supply and renewable energy resources.   

 

I extend my thanks to every one of our people for their ongoing resilience to challenges we face today and making these achievements possible. I hope you enjoy reading. 

 

Hari Poologasundram
CEO, SMEC and SJ International

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