Executive Director - Field Operations
Mr.Brian S. ALOIS
Role and Responsibilities
As the Acting Deputy Secretary for Field Operations at the Department of Works and Highways (DoWH), Brian S. Alois leads Papua New Guinea’s most critical infrastructure programs with a focus on sustainability, accessibility, and economic growth. His leadership ensures the efficient delivery of infrastructure projects, connecting communities across the nation and supporting Papua New Guinea’s socio-economic development goals.
His key responsibilities include
- Strategic Oversight of Field Operations: Managing the planning, execution, and supervision of infrastructure projects across all provinces, ensuring alignment with national priorities and adherence to quality standards.
- Implementation of the Connect PNG Program: Leading the execution of this transformative 20-year strategic plan, designed to enhance connectivity and stimulate economic growth through road network expansion and bridge development.
- National Road Network Maintenance: Overseeing the upkeep and rehabilitation of road infrastructure, prioritizing safety and ensuring reliable access to services for citizens in rural and urban areas.
- Policy Development and Advisory: Contributing to the formulation of national infrastructure policies and providing expert advice to the government on road sector priorities and strategies.
- Stakeholder Engagement: Building collaborations with government agencies, international donors, contractors, and local communities to facilitate project success and inclusive development.
- Capacity Building and Training: Promoting professional development within the department by mentoring technical staff and driving the adoption of best practices in infrastructure planning, design, and execution.
Through his leadership, Mr. Alois is instrumental in advancing the Department of Works and Highways’ mission to deliver resilient and sustainable infrastructure that empowers communities and supports Papua New Guinea’s development.
Key Contributions
- Decades of Expertise: Over 30 years of experience in road transport infrastructure, contributing significantly to the development and maintenance of Papua New Guinea’s National Road Network.
- Leadership in Strategic Roles: Held various leadership positions within DoWH, including Regional Works Manager for the Islands and Northern regions, and First Assistant Secretary for Operations, Project Operations, and Design Services.
- Contributions to Engineering in PNG: Served the engineering profession in PNG through 14 years on the IEPNG Council and Professional Engineers Registration Board, including terms as President of IEPNG and Chair of PERB.
- Global Representation: Represented Papua New Guinea at international forums, delivering impactful presentations at conferences like the Global Road Safety Seminar in Beijing and the Australian Road Research Bureau Conference in Melbourne.
- Institutional Board Leadership: Appointed by the National Executive Council as a Board Member for the Angau General Hospital and Lae City Authority, contributing to governance and operational improvements in these key institutions.
Community and Social Impact
- Connectivity for Rural Communities: Through his leadership in field operations, Mr. Alois has improved access to essential services such as healthcare, education, and markets, transforming the lives of citizens in remote and underserved regions.
- Empowering Local Stakeholders: Advocated for the inclusion of local contractors in maintenance and construction projects, fostering skills development and promoting economic self-reliance.
- Promoting Sustainability: Integrated climate-adaptive designs in road and bridge projects, ensuring long-term resilience against environmental challenges.
- Mentorship and Knowledge Transfer: Committed to empowering future leaders by mentoring engineers, delivering guest lectures, and supporting research initiatives in infrastructure planning.
Vision and Future Aspirations
Brian S. Alois envisions a Papua New Guinea where all citizens enjoy seamless access to opportunities through a robust and resilient infrastructure network. His aspirations include:
- Achieving full connectivity across all provinces under the Connect PNG Program by completing key missing-link roads and bridges.
- Strengthening workforce capacity through targeted training programs and introducing modern technologies for infrastructure planning and delivery.
- Expanding the adoption of climate-resilient and eco-friendly designs to protect infrastructure investments and ensure sustainability.
- Continuing to foster inclusive development by ensuring that rural and marginalized communities are key beneficiaries of infrastructure projects.
Bio
Brian S. Alois is a Registered Civil Engineer and Honorary Fellow of the Institution of Engineers PNG, with a distinguished career spanning over three decades. A graduate of the PNG University of Technology, he holds a Bachelor’s Degree in Civil Engineering and an MBA (Executive Program). His professional development includes specialized training in Infrastructure Planning and Public Works Administration from leading institutions in China and Japan.
Renowned for his expertise in road and bridge contract management, benefit-cost analysis, technical auditing, and strategic planning, Mr. Alois has personally traversed all major National Highways in Papua New Guinea. His hands-on approach and extensive experience working in 11 provinces make him uniquely equipped to address the nation’s infrastructure challenges and opportunities.
Beyond his technical expertise, Mr. Alois is deeply committed to community development, knowledge sharing, and fostering a culture of excellence within DoWH. Through his visionary leadership, he continues to drive the Department’s mission to build a connected, sustainable, and prosperous Papua New Guinea.