Brian Godfrey – Outstanding Contribution Award 2025

At Auckland’s Viaduct Events Centre on 16 October 2025, the Concrete NZ Conference Awards celebrated technical excellence, sustainability and innovation - while also recognising those whose leadership and dedication have strengthened the industry’s foundations.

Brian Godfrey accepts his Outstanding Contribution Award.

This year’s Outstanding Contribution Award was presented to Brian Godfrey, acknowledging his long-standing commitment, integrity, and willingness to challenge the status quo to achieve better outcomes for people and practice. Few have embodied that ethos more consistently than Brian Godfrey.

Concrete NZ Chief Executive Rob Gaimster noted that the industry’s progress depends on those who “give more than they take, setting standards not only for quality and safety but for professionalism and collegiality.”

Challenging the Status Quo for Safer, Smarter Practice
Throughout his involvement with the Readymix Sector Group and its predecessor, the New Zealand Ready Mixed Concrete Association (NZRMCA), Brian has stood out for his refusal to accept “the way things have always been done.”

He has continually encouraged peers to look beyond routine and find safer, smarter and more sustainable approaches to everyday challenges.

Renowned for combining critical thinking with respect and good humour, Brian has influenced discussions on key industry issues such as health and safety, training, and environmental performance.

His advocacy has supported clearer reporting frameworks, stronger governance processes and better alignment of operational standards across the sector.

Integrity, Mentorship and Industry Leadership
Colleagues describe Brian as thoughtful, authentic and generous with his time. As both Committee Member and President of the Readymix Sector Group, he modelled an open leadership style that encouraged constructive debate and shared learning.

His calm, measured approach and commitment to fairness have helped maintain a strong sense of unity across a sector that depends on collaboration between producers, contractors and designers.

Under his guidance, the Readymix Sector Group evolved into a more inclusive and forward-looking network.

Brian helped strengthen the connection between health and safety practices and the Concrete NZ Plant Audit Scheme, ensuring consistency and accountability nationwide.

He also contributed to early discussions on decarbonisation, promoting the adoption of supplementary cementitious materials and improved mix-design practices to support emissions reduction.

A Lasting Influence
Accepting his award, Brian reflected on the importance of questioning convention.

“Improvement starts when we stop accepting the way things have always been done,” he observed - a sentiment that neatly captures his professional philosophy.

Concrete NZ commended him for his “authentic leadership, professional integrity and enduring influence,” recognising that his example has strengthened both the Readymix Sector Group and the wider concrete community.

Brian’s career demonstrates that genuine progress is rarely achieved through complacency.

By constructively challenging assumptions and encouraging collective responsibility, he has helped build an industry that is safer, more resilient and better prepared for the future.

His contribution exemplifies the purpose of the Outstanding Contribution Award - recognising those whose sustained efforts leave a visible and lasting difference.