Faces of CRL – Abishek "Rocky" Azhalavan

Delivering the country’s largest infrastructure project takes some seriously talented people, so in this section “Faces of the CRL” we interview some of City Rail Link’s best and brightest. This month we turn the spotlight on Rocky, our Programme Planning Manager.

Name: Abishek "Rocky" Azhalavan

Age: 34

Suburb: Orakei

How long have you been working with City Rail Link? 10 Months

What is your role? Programme Planning Manager

How do you do it? 

CRL comprises of several project components, C1 to C9. My job involves proactively building and maintaining working relationships with various project and discipline leads across these contracts to assess programme performance, ensure smooth interface between projects and integrate into one single consolidated programme, which meets CRL delivery objectives. I approach the job with an open mind, transparency and integrity, identify planning risks and opportunities while providing valuable insights to the timely execution of the project.

What do you enjoy most about your job? 

The opportunity to work with a great group of people and connect with these many wonderful personalities, who each has a varied background and a diverse skill set, while being able to contribute and learn from each other.

What is the most challenging part? 

Like any major project with so many moving parts challenges are inevitable. The most significant one is to bring people together, provide macro insights and facilitate the various teams to find innovative and optimum solutions enabling project deliverables on time while meeting various stakeholders’ expectations.

What have been some of your previous jobs?

I am fortunate to have a diverse working background starting with executing Voltage Systems projects in the Middle East, leading the Project Controls function for the Ultrafast Broadband Rollout for New Zealand and in delivering Baggage Handling Systems to major airports across the world. Most recently, I led the programme planning function at the Downtown Infrastructure Development Programme (DIDP).

Do you have any hobbies outside work? 

Off duty I enjoy kayaking, walks, lazing at the beach, BBQ and sampling all the beer & wine NZ has to offer.

What are you looking forward to most about when the CRL is completed?

On successful completion of this iconic project, which will no doubt enrich Aucklanders’ lives, as a soon-to-be-dad, I eagerly look forward to the day when I could ride with my son and share with pride my humble role in its creation.