In 1973 William founded Octa Associates Limited as New Zealand's first Project Manager. Throughout the 1970's William worked with Professor Frank P.S. Lu to establish the project management structures that are in common use today. These structures are designed to involve clients effectively and efficiently in the total project process. It recognises projects are funded by Clients, for Clients.
William was the first person in New Zealand to apply project management as a professional service. Over the years he has grown the application of the project management discipline into many areas of management. Shifting and organising libraries, local body amalgamation, overcoming production challenges with spreadable butter and moulded cheeses, retrofitting machinery in the meat industry, as well as leading Octa's initial work in the Medium Density Fibreboard Projects for both Nelson Pine and Rayonier. It is not surprising that as Information Technology, and more latterly Biotechnology and the innovative economy have developed, his interest has extended to pioneer how project management techniques may assist to speed up project delivery.
William worked with Robotic Technologies Ltd, a 50/50 JV between Scott Technology Ltd and Silver Fern Farms. RTL is developing cutting edge automated boning technology. RTL’s primary purpose is to develop and commercialise this technology for Lamb, Beef and Venison. The first production machines have been sold for both Lamb and Beef, which has heightened interest in other areas now under development.
William has also advised RTL on strategic relationships with the NZ Government Technology for Business Growth and Meat and Livestock Australia. These have provided significant funding for development work and for MLA, with linkages to Australian Meat Processing Companies, a conduit for multi million dollar orders for both existing and advancing technologies.
