AI in Major Projects

Major Projects Association

Andy Murray, Executive Director of the Major Projects Association talks to Huda As'ad, Managing Director - Capital Projects & Infrastructure for UK, Ireland, and Africa at Accenture and Dale Foong, COO and Co-Founder of Movar.

Huda and Dale spoke at our 'Pace of Change in AI' seminar in June and we have invited them back to share their insights from the seminar and our upcoming Annual Conference 'AI is the answer. Now what’s the question?'. They discuss where AI can be most effectively applied in major projects, the benefits and challenges of AI, how AI will change the roles and skills required in the industry and how to stay relevant in an AI-driven future.

Dale breaks down the meaning of AI and shares findings from a survey on AI in the construction industry including the barriers to AI adoption.

Huda addresses the issue of bias in AI, including data bias, algorithmic bias, and human bias. Huda provides examples of bias in hiring algorithms and facial recognition.

This episode is the second of 3 podcasts leading up to our Annual Conference 'AI is the answer. Now what’s the question?' in October.

Huda As'ad

Huda leads Accenture’s UKI Capital Projects and Infrastructure Practice and is passionate about ensuring critical infrastructure maximises benefits for people, supports the planet and keeps it safe for future generations.

Her 20 year career experience to date has included government, having worked at the Infrastructure and Projects Authority (IPA) which reports to both Cabinet Office and HM Treasury, where she co-authored the Construction Playbook which sets out key policies and guidance for how major public works projects and programmes are assessed, procured and delivered to include innovation and deliver sustainability.

Prior to that, Huda worked for a Big Four consultancy where she was recruited to deliver work on critical national infrastructure programmes such as the London 2012 Olympics, Network Rail, National Grid, Thames Tideway Tunnel and others. Huda’s purpose is to encourage the use of technology and digitisation to support a sustainable, inclusive, diverse and productive infrastructure and construction sector. She is a Chartered Civil Engineer.

Dale Foong

Dale is a seasoned Project Consultant dedicated to empowering organisations and business leaders to optimise project outcomes through innovative digital solutions.

Originally hailing from South Africa, Dale has become a prominent figure within the UK's project management sector. As the Chief Operations & Innovation Officer and co-founder of Movar, he utilises his Executive MBA and vast industry experience to lead and deliver major projects across a wide range of sectors.

In 2019, Dale launched the Project Chatter Podcast, followed by the Gen AI Podcast in 2023, both of which delve into the transformative potential of AI in project management, providing valuable insights for senior leaders.

As a co-founder of the Project Connect Group and a Fellow of the ACostE, Dale is deeply committed to enhancing team dynamics and driving exceptional project outcomes. His approach is informed not only by professional expertise but also by the strategic thinking and discipline honed through his passion for rugby and sports.

Connect with Dale on LinkedIn.