Welcome
Hello and welcome to the first issue of AECascent for 2009. Firstly, I will introduce myself as Sarah-Jane Conroy, newly recruited as the Internal Business Manager for AECgroup. In my short time here, it has become evident that 2009 promises to be a very challenging year. I'm originally from the UK and during a recent trip home, it was impossible to avoid the 'doom and gloom' in the news. Here in Australia, it is refreshing to see that the attitude is more optimistic. Furthermore, it is encouraging to see that the AECgroup strive to be positive during this financial crisis. Despite the economic downturn, AECgroup are fortunate to have ample local government and infrastructure projects underway. However, there is no denying that the year ahead for AECgroup will be tough ……
Remember the saying "when the going gets tough the tough get going"? Well that is exactly what we are doing here at AECgroup – getting going. This means that we are stepping up our business development activities in all areas like never before and we are also implementing an international expansion strategy into the Asia Pacific region.
In this edition you'll find some very diverse articles. Highlights include:
- Carey's article titled 'The Perfect Storm' summarises the commendable work AECgroup are completing following the collapse of Storm Financial. AECgroup are helping thousands of victims regain their financial stability as part of our Corporate Social Responsibility programme.
- Gavin's 'Economic Outlook' puts an interesting spin on the economic downturn by highlighting the good news which comes as result of the financial crisis.
- Simon's article on the Australian Consulting Services Mission to the Asian Development bank emphasises that exciting times lie ahead for AECgroup as our international presence grows.
I hope you enjoy reading this issue and despite the 'doom and gloom' the world is experiencing, remember there are positive effects too. So sit back, relax and enjoy this first edition of AECascent for 2009. Happy reading!
Sarah-Jane Conroy
