We sat down with IPS Project Manager Matt Smith to hear about his career journey – from small-town New Zealand beginnings to leading major infrastructure projects across Australia and beyond.
With more than 18 years of experience in the construction industry, IPS Project Manager Matt Smith knows what it takes to deliver complex infrastructure projects. His journey from a small town in southern New Zealand to managing high-value projects across Australia has been defined by hands-on experience, a hunger for growth, and a deep respect for the people who bring projects to life.
Matt’s career began with encouragement from a family member who saw his potential early on. “My uncle worked in subdivision development for a Tier 1 contractor and believed I had the practical mindset and skillset to succeed,” Matt recalls. “As a young engineer, I was like a sponge. I put my hand up for every opportunity, whether it was a unique project or a new location.”
That mindset quickly led Matt to opportunities that shaped the foundation of his career including a formative project in Vanuatu, which he fondly describes as a “working holiday,” and a pivotal role in the Christchurch earthquake rebuild. “The Christchurch project was a $2 billion infrastructure recovery effort. I was still a junior engineer managing $10 million packages, learning rapidly on the job. It wasn’t just about restoring what was lost – it was about rebuilding for long-term resilience.”
Matt’s path next took him to Sydney, where he worked with a Tier 1 construction firm on large-scale road upgrades and water infrastructure projects for government clients. There, he refined his expertise in construction estimating and cost management – skills he continues to leverage in his role today.
His move to Brisbane and eventual transition to IPS was driven by both lifestyle and alignment with company culture. “I’ve bought a house here and love the lifestyle,” he says. “But what really drew me to IPS was the culture. It’s a company that values its people and building team culture. The leadership really do put their employees first. I also love the diversity and differing projects and getting to see them being built from concept through to completion.”
At IPS, Matt has taken on a client-side role, currently serving on the Principal’s Representative’s Team on a major, first of its kind, Queensland Government project. “The majority of my background is in construction, so stepping into a client-facing role has been a refreshing challenge,” he explains. “It’s a different pace and perspective, and I’m really enjoying it.”
A key aspect of Matt’s approach is strategic foresight. “Risk management is huge. People often underestimate how much of the job is about anticipating what could go wrong – thinking hypothetically and flagging risks early in the life cycle of a project. It’s not just about delivery; it’s about resilience and foresight.”
Looking forward, Matt sees AI as a game-changing force in the industry. “I’m very excited to explore AI more, it’s going to help us work more efficiently and accurately. The idea of using historical project data to predict cost and planning challenges? That would have been a dream tool 20 years ago.”
Throughout his career, one piece of advice has guided Matt’s leadership style: respect everyone on the project, regardless of their role. “My grandfather and an uncle worked in construction, and they always told me to respect everyone’s position and input into a project, no matter what level they work at. I always think of that NASA story, when a janitor told President Kennedy ‘I’m helping put a man on the moon.’ That really resonates with me. Every team member matters.”
Outside of work, Matt finds energy and clarity in spending time with family and friends and enjoys health and fitness. “That balance is important. It keeps you present and performing at your best.”
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