We recently asked Lyndall and James, Senior Program Managers, Capital Works, some questions about their work at the Parliament of NSW.
What is the role of the Senior Program Manager Capital Works
Lyndall: I oversee the planning and execution of select building projects to ensure that Parliament House remains safe, functional, and welcoming for all individuals. I collaborate with internal stakeholders and consultants, including writers, engineers, architects, and builders to ensure our upgrades respect Parliament’s heritage and meet both current and future needs.
James: My role is all about helping to plan and deliver building and upgrade projects across Parliament House and 98 Electorate Offices throughout NSW. This can include things like refurbishments, accessibility improvements, safety upgrades, and changes that support how Parliament operates day to day.
What kind of background / qualifications / attributes do you need to do your job?
James: People in roles like mine usually have backgrounds in trades (I’m a Stonemason) or have backgrounds in project management, construction or architecture. Having formal qualifications is important, but just as important is real-world experience and the ability to work well with people. You also need to be a good communicator and a problem-solver. Because things can change quickly in Parliament House, being flexible, calm and able to think on your feet really helps.
Lyndall: My work combines my background and expertise in architecture, public buildings, heritage conservation, and project‑management. My job involves communication, teamwork, and problem-solving in collaboration with various stakeholder groups. In these situations, attentive listening and clear articulation of ideas are valuable skills.
Could you describe a typical day at work?
Lyndall: Every day is different, most days are busy, and my tasks vary throughout the day. For example, I may pop on a hard hat and visit a building site, sit in a quiet space and review written reports, lead a virtual meeting with consultants, and then lead a consultation meeting with internal stakeholders.
James: No two days are the same. One day I might be in meetings reviewing project plans or talking through issues with stakeholders, and the next I could be onsite walking through a construction area and checking how things are progressing. Most days are a mix of emails, meetings, site visits and problem-solving – and plans often change to fit in with Parliament’s sitting schedule. It definitely keeps things interesting.
What do you love about working at Parliament House?
James: I enjoy working at Parliament House because of its historical significance and the responsibility of caring for an important heritage precinct. It’s rewarding to deliver projects that protect and respect the heritage fabric while considerately adapting the building to be safer, more accessible and functional for everyone who uses it. I really enjoy working with a wide range of people and knowing that the projects we deliver help make the building safer, more accessible, and more functional for everyone who uses it.
Lyndall: Parliament House is a wonderful place to work. I feel very privileged to help care for the Parliament buildings, that play such a significant role in our democracy, for the people of NSW. Personally, I enjoy collaborating with enthusiastic people across Parliament who care deeply about creating safe, accessible, and engaging opportunities for the public to visit. I enjoy sharing knowledge with the public about the recently restored award-winning heritage buildings.
What’s your favourite thing about seeing students and teachers visiting Parliament House?
Lyndall: I absolutely love seeing students and teachers exploring the Parliament and making real‑world connections to what they are learning at school. Observing their enthusiasm during guided tours, participation in role plays, and engagement with the architectural features of the building highlights the enduring significance of Parliament to the people of NSW.
James: It’s great to see students engage with a place of such heritage and civic importance and learn how Parliament operates. It’s good to see how our work helps ensure the precinct remains safe, welcoming and preserved for future generations to experience.
