In this episode of the Major Projects Association podcast, Executive Director Andy Murray is joined by Lisa Kelvey, Global Head of Infrastructure at KPMG, and Joe Manning, Partner in KPMG’s Major Projects practice, to unpack the rapid rise of the delivery partner and what it means for the future of major project execution. Building on insights from our recent, oversubscribed Manchester seminar, the discussion explores why organisations are increasingly turning to delivery partners to bridge capability gaps, manage complexity, and bring specialist leadership at critical moments in the project lifecycle.

Drawing on global market trends, UK case studies, and their own programme experience, Lisa and Joe delve into what separates effective delivery partnerships from those that simply add layers of resource. They explore what it takes to set up a delivery partner model well, both on the client side and across the programme, and how capability needs to evolve as projects move through different phases. The conversation also tackles the realities of making these arrangements work day to day, including the commercial and relationship dynamics that can make or break performance.

And as part of our new podcast feature, the episode ends with a track chosen by our guests - an energising nod to what effective collaboration can enable, and a musical send-off to match the ambition of the conversation.

Links

Highlights report of the Rise of the delivery partner seminar

Lisa Kelvey, Global Head of Infrastructure, KPMG

Lisa is KPMG’s Global Head of Infrastructure and leads KPMG UK’s Major Projects Advisory practice. A Chartered Civil Engineer with over 25 years’ experience of delivering major projects in the UK, Europe, Middle East, Asia and Americas, Lisa provides insight and leading international practice on the planning, procurement and delivery of major infrastructure projects as well as embedding sustainability considerations throughout the asset lifecycle. She provides strategic advice to Project Leaders and Sponsors using her practical, people-focussed approach, backed up with strong technical knowledge to solve the most complex programme challenges.

Lisa is a recognised industry expert who regularly presents on best practice at industry seminars for both the Major Projects Association and the Association for Project Management and is the KPMG senior sponsor for our initiative with the World Economic Forum and Davos Baukultur Alliance, developing leading international practice Alliance on liveable cities.

Connect with Lisa on LinkedIn.

Joe Manning, Partner, Major Projects Advisory, KPMG

Joe is KPMG Partner in Major Projects Advisory, specialising in strategic and leadership advice for asset owners and major infrastructure programmes.

His background spans regulated and non-regulated sectors, including transport, power, water, and social infrastructure. He is driven by a passion for improving economic outcomes through greater certainty in infrastructure delivery.

With over a decade at KPMG and prior experience delivering infrastructure projects for a leading Tier 1 contractor, Joe brings a unique blend of advisory skills and practical project delivery expertise to provide data-driven leadership and solutions.

Proud husband, father of three, and lover of the outdoors.

Connect with Joe on LinkedIn.