Experience is an alike strong pillar that supports one in the most challenging decision-making. Ameya Gumaste, an institution himself who has gained that experience with continuous hard work and a hunger for more knowledge about the industry. He is the Ex-Country Manager at Turner & Townsend with an overall experience in Project management, Cost management, and Program management over the last 25 years.
How did you start your journey?
Not everyone from a small town chooses a field like Civil Engineering, but selecting that field was not planned. So, I find myself fortunate enough to get placed at Shapoorji Pallonji as a graduate engineer trainee which has been the best employer in the whole industry. My first day turned out terrific as I was on the site for an ongoing project.
What do you love about this Industry?
In the front of my eyes, the site was a large glass factory that mesmerized me and later became a passion for me. I think of the industry as an encyclopaedia in itself. I also worked with some great international companies in one of the oldest construction companies, i.e., Shapoorji Pallonji. Passion, perseverance, and a positive attitude helped me through my journey and reach the position I am in today in the industry. I pass some bits of advice to “Not say no to anything and find a way around every difficulty because that’s what makes you strong even in your most vulnerable time.”
How do you balance your professional and personal life?
In the earlier days of my career, I was more inclined towards my professional life but soon realized the importance of balancing my personal life. I have been maintaining that balance for the past 4 to 5 years. Also, found a mentor who taught me the art of dedication that helped me throughout my journey. The moment I understood the spiritual part, I realized that productivity and efficiency in professional life could go high.
What has been the most defining moment of your career?
I was once sent to the Gandhinagar office, replacing their manager for 6 to 8 weeks until my visa work for Muscat wasn’t completed. After that, I found it better to work rather than stay home and do nothing. Luckily my extraordinary hard work mesmerized everyone, and I was promoted to Operations Director. It was the first significant position I was appointed in my career, which became the most important pivotal point. Four years back, I was selected and nominated as a partner in Turner & Townsend Global Organisation because I was the first Asian to be designated as a partner in a UK company, which has been the defining moment of my career.
What are your work Philosophies, also the traits and skills required?
Perseverance and hard work with a positive attitude are the three things I advise everyone to focus on to reach their goals. I am a big fan of behavioural aspects for a professional career. It exposes you to what you want to do if you have the right passion. Technical skills are most important to get things done within the professional skills. The earlier you start teaching other skills, the better you get to your goal. The leader in you grows with all that flexibility and strategic thinking.
What are the critical management ingredients according to you?
According to my, resource management is vital. If managed properly, the rest of things will fall into place automatically. It becomes an eventual part of your growth if you can inspire and manage people. A leader’s effectiveness comes from transparent communication where everything is shared, and everyone is given a stand to discuss their points. Digital communication has brought up a different environment when it comes to communication.
What has been your Synchronisation policy?
I like to keep my synchronization policies very simple, and for that managing, relationships make sure the alliance is preserved, keeping the project at the top. Building that kind of trust and bond among everyone makes a project succeed in every aspect. Also, recognizing the interests of everyone gets everyone on the same page, and respect is given to every professional.
Which has been your ideal project?
The Glass factory project in Shapoorji Pallonji is where I learned everything step by step, where I was not just there to learn but also given the opportunity with freedom of expression. I also made mistakes in the same project where I was made in charge of the process, but without hesitating, I brought them to light so that no more damage could be caused. According to my “If there is a mistake, come up strong with a solution.
What are the key challenges that you foresee in the future?
With many fast-tracking and expeditions, digitization keeps the environment stable and brings sustainability into the picture. It is essential to look at these factors as it is about driving professionalism in the built environment shows work is yet to be done.
Which are the three best workspaces, according to you?
I think Google offices, Microsoft Offices, and HSBC building in Hongkong have something different with their infrastructure. They have invested in the design and office culture to bring those facilities the best out of the individuals and the detailing of the workspaces.
What are your vision and next big goal?
I plan to bridge the gap, which I would name the valley of values where lack of trust and accountability needs to be worked on. I also aim to work on that model, create deals, a partnership between an investor and a professional to bring them on the same platform. It needs a little more education and understanding; transparency on the table will fill this knowledge gap.
What Mantra would you like to pass on to the next generation?
Never say no to opportunities. Instead, say yes, and keep learning because that will help you upskill yourself regularly.
