Brett Watkins
Head of Portfolio Development / General Manager, Engineering Services
Brett Watkins joined Hartecs in 2025 as Acting General Manager, Engineering Services and Head of Portfolio Development bringing over 30 years of expertise in construction, engineering, environmental science, and law. With a proven track record in managing major infrastructure projects across Australia, Brett possesses a multidisciplinary skill set that drives innovative and sustainable solutions to complex challenges.
Throughout his career, Brett has collaborated with leading contractors and organisations to successfully deliver critical infrastructure projects. His experience spans the entire project lifecycle—from concept, design, and planning to execution and handover—all while maintaining the highest standards of safety, quality, and compliance.
Brett has a deep understanding of the many key areas that contribute to successful project delivery, including contract management, claims management, planning, stakeholder engagement, risk management, resource allocation, and operational efficiency. His expertise encompasses a diverse range of sectors, including rail, road, tunnels, water, mining, gas, and building.
With a strong foundation in law (Construction, Planning and Environmental), environmental science, and engineering, Brett ensures sustainability and regulatory compliance are integral to every project. His extensive experience in contract and claims management enables him to navigate complex agreements, resolve disputes, and protect client interests while maintaining positive project momentum.
Brett’s expertise extends to navigating complex and challenging regulatory and development conditions. He ensures projects meet stringent compliance requirements while optimizing outcomes for clients. His ability to interpret and manage regulatory frameworks, combined with strategic foresight, allows him to identify opportunities and mitigate risks, delivering best-in-class solutions tailored to client needs.
A proactive and hands-on leader, Brett excels at fostering collaboration within diverse, multidisciplinary teams. His strategic mindset and practical problem-solving skills enable him to navigate challenges, deliver cost-effective solutions, and consistently exceed client expectations. Brett remains committed to professional growth, staying at the forefront of industry trends through continuous learning. This dedication ensures Hartecs maintains its leadership in delivering exceptional engineering and infrastructure services.