When Mick O'Bradaigh joined Venture Smart in late 2019 to lead the delivery of a major contract for Main Roads Western Australia (MRWA), he found a contract that had potential for growth and development.

Venture Smart is a 50:50 joint venture between Ventia and Johnson Controls Incorporated (JCI), established to deliver the Statewide Electrical Infrastructure Services Contract for MRWA. 

MRWA holds responsibility for one of the world's largest road networks, covering 18,400 kilometres of highways and main roads across 2.5 million square kilometres, in addition to 30% of the state's electrical assets. 

Venture Smart is proud to handle maintenance for all MRWA electrical assets, providing planned and reactive maintenance, as well as managing repairs to damaged assets, electrical upgrades, and minor capital works where they are required. Needless to say, the job is huge.

With his positive attitude, passion for people, and hands-on leadership style, Mick has, in three short years, transformed both the client relationship and the team culture, and it was the combination of these attributes that saw him receive a Highly Commended CEO Award. 

Under Mick's direction, Venture Smart is not only helping maintain Western Australia's vital road network, but also creating jobs and opportunities for local communities throughout the state. 

^{Picture: Mick O'Bradaigh with Daron Andrews and Neville Collard at the Venture Smart cultural day} 

Mick says Venture Smart DNA is simple: to buy local, live local, and for the workforce to reflect the communities in which we operate.

We're proud to create new jobs, particularly for people from diverse backgrounds, support emerging talent, and make a positive contribution to the WA community and economy.

Mick is quick to say that his success is down to the team he works with day in and out. 

"I am very thankful for my team here at Venture Smart whose support has been the key in ensuring we provide a safe, diverse and inclusive workspace for our people."

"They're a great bunch and I am so proud of what we have achieved together." 

Well done Mick - the results speak for themselves. A diverse and high achieving team with purpose, ownership and satisfaction, and a transformed client relationship