Our conference will bring together representatives of the global engineering, construction and infrastructure sector to discuss the key issues and opportunities facing the industry. Since FIDIC met at its annual conference in Singapore last year, global markets have seen a shift towards cooling interest rate rises, slowing inflation and an increasing focus on bolstering growth, something the infrastructure sector is well placed to help deliver.Therefore, this 2024 FIDIC annual Global Infrastructure Conference on 8-10 September in Geneva is arguably more important than ever as the international construction industry prepares to plan, develop and deliver the strategies and solutions the world needs to provide the infrastructure to help build economic and social prosperity and improve people’s lives on a global scale.The conference theme, Transforming lives with infrastructure: Investing in and building a better world for all, highlights how our industry makes a positive difference to the natural and built environment and to people’s lives. The event, which will assemble a high-profile line-up of expert speakers from many influential global organisations, will see the world’s premier engineers and other stakeholders from the global construction and infrastructure sector coming together in Geneva as part of a unique and influential global meeting place for our industry.Attendees at the FIDIC Global Infrastructure Conference 2024 in Geneva also have the opportunity to network with key decision-makers from consulting engineering firms, contractors, governments, civic society, international organisations and financial institutions. That’s why our annual flagship conference remains the world’s stand-out international event for the engineering, construction and infrastructure industry.Make sure that you are part of it by booking your place today. Also, please ensure that you also enjoy the social events we have organised as part of the conference programme, which include our annual FIDIC Global Infrastructure Awards Gala Dinner, where we look forward to celebrating and highlighting the best of our industry and the real and lasting difference it makes to society.FIDIC is delighted to welcome you to Geneva and wishes you all a very successful conference.
On behalf of everyone at FIDIC and our Swiss member association, the Swiss Association of Consulting Engineering Companies (suisse.ing), we are delighted to welcome all our international delegates and visitors to Geneva for our 2024 FIDIC Global Infrastructure Conference.Infrastructure remains high on the global agenda and once again, this year, the infrastructure sector is in the spotlight as world governments look on investments in their national social and physical infrastructure as being crucial to delivering on their economic plans over the years ahead. This places a significant responsibility on the engineering and construction professionals responsible for delivering that infrastructure and that’s why FIDIC’s annual flagship conference is so important for our sector.
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Catherine KarakatsanisPresident, FIDIC
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Transforming lives with infrastructure – investing in and building a better world for allInfrastructure remains high on the agenda and once again, this year, the infrastructure sector is in the spotlight as world governments look on investments in their national social and physical infrastructure as being crucial to delivering on their economic plans over the years ahead. The fact that governments and funders see infrastructure as crucial to the vitality and health of national economies – and indeed nations themselves – places a significant responsibility on the engineering and construction professionals responsible for delivering it and that’s why FIDIC’s annual flagship conference is so important for our sector.The 2024 FIDIC Global Infrastructure Conference, taking place in Geneva at the President Wilson Hotel from 8-10 September 2024, will bring together representatives of the global engineering, construction and infrastructure sector to discuss the key issues and opportunities facing the industry. Since FIDIC last met in Singapore last year, global markets have seen a shift towards cooling interest rate rises, slowing inflation and an increasing focus on bolstering growth, something the infrastructure sector is well placed to help deliver.
Conference theme
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Some of the key issues to be discussed at the conference include:•Changing lives - How good infrastructure can change people’s lives and improve nations’ prospects.•What is best in class? - What does good infrastructure look like and how can it work for everyone?•Tomorrow is sustainable - Good infrastructure means sustainable infrastructure - and why this matters.•Managing risks - How can we deliver infrastructure and manage risk in an uncertain world?•The value conundrum – squaring the circle on cost and long-term sustainability.•Finance is key - What happens if the cost of finance and funding does not fall.•Net zero update – will we hit sustainability targets and save the planet?•Politics and politicians – Navigating changing beliefs to create key partners in delivery?•The informed client – in the ever-changing world, creating leadership from the outset. •Developing world focus – different routes to delivery in a diverse world.•Global infrastructure showcase – best practice groundbreaking solutions from around the world.•Digital revolution – how technological developments are helping to deliver better, more efficient and effective infrastructure projects.•Plan for tomorrow today – attracting, retaining and developing people and skills to enable companies to flourish. Attendees at the FIDIC Global Infrastructure Conference 2024 will be able to take advantage of unrivalled networking opportunities. Discussion can take place with key partners to the conference, in network areas as part of forums, but all play their role in capacity building and knowledge sharing. It really is the world’s leading gathering for the infrastructure and built environment industry and FIDIC is looking forward to welcoming the global industry to Geneva in September 2024.A certificate of attendance will be provided to each conference participant (8 -10 September 2024) which may be used for CPD verification in your local region.
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Conference programme
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08:15 - 08:50
Networking breakfast.
08:50 - 08:55
Welcome and opening remarks.
08:55 - 09:05
Local cultural performance.
09:05 - 09:45
Opening Keynote.
09:45 - 11:00
Panel session 1 - Transforming lives with infrastructure - Investing in and building a better world for all.
11:00 - 11:30
Morning coffee break.
11:30 - 12:45
Panel session 2 - Show me the money! - De-risking and leveraging infrastructure investment.
12:45 - 13:45
Lunch - time to recharge.
13:45 - 14:25
Panel session 3 - Decarbonising infrastructure: Towards a sustainable future with FIDIC’s GLF Carbon Initiative.
14:25 - 15:40
Panel session 4 – Focus on the ‘developing’ world – the specific challenges of emerging markets and developing economies.
15:40 - 16:00
Networking break - get to know your peers.
16:00 - 18:00
Digital Transformation Forum.
16:00 - 18:00
Contract Management Forum.
16:00 - 18:00
Dispute Avoidance and Adjudication Forum – Part A.
19:30 - 23:00
FIDIC Local Colour Night.
Monday 9 September 2024
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Conference programme
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08:15 - 09:00
Networking breakfast.
09:00 - 09:15
Welcome and opening remarks.
09:15 - 09:45
Keynote plenary: no time to lose.
09:45 - 11:00
Panel session 5 – The politics of infrastructure – influencing governments and persuading politicians.
11:00 - 11:15
FCL Certificates award ceremony.
11:00 - 11:30
Networking break - get to know your peers.
11:30 - 12:45
Panel session 6 – Global infrastructure showcase.
12:45 - 13:45
Lunch - time to recharge.
13:45 - 15:00
Panel session 7 - Leading the way - a view from industry leaders.
15:00 - 15:10
Conference close.
15:30 - 17:30
Dispute avoidance and Adjudication Forum - Part B.
15:30 - 17:30
People and culture forum.
15:30 - 17:30
Nature positive infrastructure - making it mainstream.
19:30 - 23:30
Global Infrastructure Awards Gala Dinner.
Tuesday 10 September 2024
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Conference speakersand moderatorsScan or click on the QR code to view the full list of speakers and moderators.
Conference programme The President Wilson Hotel will serve as the official venue for our FIDIC 2024 Global Infrastructure Conference. The ballroom will host the main conference events from8-10 September, including the sponsor exhibition and networking breaks.
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Membership programme FIDIC’s membership programme boasts a list of events for FIDIC member associations to network and discuss the implementation of FIDIC’s strategic priorities and future plans.The programme will be held from 7-8 September2024 Scan or click on the QR code to view the full programme.
Access your digital delegate bag
Exciting news! You can now access your digital delegate bag and unlock a world of benefits waiting for you. Inside, you’ll find a curated collection of resources and offers from our valued sponsors, FIDIC Academy, bookshop, FCL and much more. Don’t miss out on exclusive discounts and educational content that will enhance your experience at the event. Dive in and explore all that’s in store for you!Access your delegate bag here.
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The conference will take place at President Wilson Hotel in Geneva. From this city centre location, delegates can enjoy convenient conferencing facilities, comfortable guest accommodation and an ideal base from which to explore the many sights Geneva has to offer.Venue addressHotel President Wilson, a Luxury Collection Hotel, Geneva.AddressQuai Wilson 47Genève GE 1211Switzerland+41 22 906 66 66Public transportWondering how to get to Hotel President Wilson? View here step-by-step directions from the nearest public transit stations.ParkingThe parking options at Hotel President Wilson, a Luxury Collection Hotel, Geneva are:On-Site Parking - Daily: CH₣40.Off-Site Parking: Parking des Arcades 0.9 KM.Valet: Daily: CH₣40.
Conference venue
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Airport boothFIDIC will have staff available to assist conference attendees at a welcome booth outside the arrivals area at Geneva airport on Saturday 10 September and Sunday 11 September from 09.00 - 18.00 CET.Car rentalFor car rental availabilities and reservations, please contact our hotel partner Sixt located in the hotel by calling +41 22 908 04 60 or call our Concierge Desk by dialling 9324 from your room.Free travel cardsAs part of your hotel stay in Geneva, hotels can issue travel cards free of charge to use public transport. To access this benefit, you will need to ask the reception at the hotel and an electronic travel card will be sent to the email address you provide to them at check in. Book your transfersFIDIC has partnered with ‘Lifts To’ to offer Geneva airport to Geneva City hotel discounted transfers to the 2024 FIDIC Global Infrastructure Conference held in Geneva. We work closely with them as they are one of the industry leading specialists delivering high quality and reliable transfers across the globe.To book your transfer please click here.Simply enter Geneva Airport in the From destination and enter Geneva Hotels Switzerland in the To destination. Enter dates and times for both your outward and return transfers and enter the name and address of hotel in the transfer summary page, along with your flight details and include your mobile number before confirming your booking.Emergency numbers•Police – 117•Fire – 118•Ambulance - 144Wordly Audio Translation ServicesA dedicated audio translation application will be available during the main conference sessions on Monday 10 and Tuesday 11 September. Please bring your own headsets along as there will only be a limited number of headsets available for delegates that do not have any on the day at the registration desk. Please click here for a step by step to download and use the app.
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FIDICGIC 2024 networkingConference participants can network in one of the many public areas in the venue and can make use of the online networking space on theConference Website.In order to schedule any networking meetings, you can do so on the following tabs on the events website:
Registrant DirectoryThis page shows the people attending this event. Click on the “request meeting” button to set up a meeting with someone, which may be in-person at the venue or online on the platform.
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Mobile phonesDelegates are kindly requested to keep their mobile phones on silent mode in meeting rooms when conference sessions are in progress.WIFI name: FIDIC GIC 24 WIFI password: Welcome2024#FIDIC conference administrationFor any enquiries contact the FIDIC Events team at events@fidic.org
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Download FIDIC’s Global Infrastructure Conference 2024 event app
FIDIC’s Global Infrastructure Conference 2024 event app is now open and ready to use!Click on the button below or scan the QR code to download the Attendee Mobile app and search for FIDIC GIC which will give you access to the following features:•Conference agenda•Speakers•Attendees•Sponsors•Geneva tours•FIDIC website•Venue information•Social media•Conference materialsPlease note all the features mentioned are accessible once you have logged in to the app using your reservation login credentials.
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Social events
FIDIC Welcome Cocktail ReceptionDate: Sunday 8 September 2024.Time: 7pm-10pm.Venue: President Wilson - Pool terrace (if weather allows).Dress code: Smart casual.This event is included for all conference registered participants. Registration is required.
Description: Whether you’ve attended the FIDIC Committee Chairs Meeting, the Future Leaders Symposium or have just arrived for the conference, we invite you to join us for an informal gathering on the first evening of the main event. Catch up with colleagues, make new friends, network with CEOs, decision-makers from major consulting engineering firms, international institutions’ representatives and delegates from over 80 different countries attending the FIDIC conference.
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FIDIC Global Infrastructure Awards Gala Dinner
Description: Enjoy a memorable evening in the company of your fellow guests, exquisite cuisine and fantastic entertainment. The presentation of the FIDIC Global Project Awards 2024 will be one of the highlights of the gala programme and details of the awards being presented are listed below. Registrants will receive separate joining instructions for this event.FIDIC Global Project Awards 2024These awards recognise, highlight and reward the achievements and successes of consulting engineering member firms across the globe and the important impact their projects have on social, economic and environmental quality of life around the world.
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Date: Tuesday 10 September 2024.Time: 7pm to 1am.Venue: President Wilson - Ballroom.Dress code: Formal black tie or national/traditional dress.
NB: Please note this event is now SOLD OUT. All registrants will receive separate information and their e-tickets closer to the event.
Social events
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FIDIC Member Association Excellence Awards 2024The FIDIC Member Association Excellence Awards recognise, reward and highlight the achievements, successes and work of FIDIC’s international member associations in representing the global consulting engineering industry. FIDIC Future Leaders Awards 2024FIDIC’s Future Leaders Awards acknowledge and promote the remarkable achievements of future leaders in the consulting engineering industry worldwide and encourage effective participation of future leaders in FIDIC.FIDIC Project Awards 2024The FIDIC Project Awards recognise, highlight and reward the achievements and successes of consulting engineering member firms across the globe and the important impact their projects have on social, economic and environmental quality of life around the world.
Social events
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Social events
Local Colour Night (Optional paid event)Date: Monday 9 September 2024.Venue: Kiosque des Bastions .Time: 7pm - 10.30pm.Dress code: Smart casual.After the first full day of the FIDIC 2024 Global Infrastructure Conference, the Local Colour Night offers an opportunity to meet other delegates in an informal atmosphere and enjoy the culture and surroundings of the vibrant city of Geneva. The 2024 Local Colour Night will be held at the Kiosque des Bastions, a modern brasserie located in the Parc des Bastions, next to the Place Neuve, close to the Old Town.
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The restaurant has an art-deco style interior and also has a spacious outside terrace with an unobstructed view of the park. There will be a DJ providing music from 19.30 to 23.00. For something a little different, there will also be a roving performer from Magie Moderne to entertain the guests in small groups.
Overall, the FIDIC 2024 Local Colour Night is a fun and engaging way to experience the culture of Geneva. This event is paid for separately and registrants will receive separate information about this event. Delegates will leave from conference venue on coaches escorted by FIDIC representatives.
NB: Please note this event is now SOLD OUT. All registrants will receive separate information and their e-tickets closer to the event.
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Book your Geneva tours!
Renowned for its innovation, engineering and breathtaking landscape that unites southern Europe via the Alps, Switzerland is home to four national languages with four distinct cultures, food, wine and landscape. The 2024 FIDIC Global Infrastructure Conference takes place in the French-speaking city of Geneva. A vibrant international city nestled in the bay where the Rhone leaves Lac Léman, at the foothills of the Alps, it is home to many international governmental and non-governmental organisations including the European seat of the UN. Visitors can enjoy a boat trip on or a dip in the lake, visit lovely vineyards, do exclusive shopping or go for a hike in the mountains. Geneva and its lake are must-sees and if there is time, delegates should visit other locations like Berne, Luzern and Zurich, or journey further afield to the mountains of Zermatt, Gstaad and Jungfrau region. FIDIC invites business leaders to explore Geneva, a global city of business, finance, diplomacy and culture and host to many international organisations, including FIDIC. Click here for further information on the many tours being offered by Geneva Tourism Bureau.
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Conference Master of Ceremonies and presenter
Sara Lipscombe
United Kingdom
Sara has worked in the infrastructure sector for the majority of her career, having served as an executive director for organisations including WS Atkins PLC, Groupe Bouygues, SAUR International and Costain Group PLC.
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She is a non-executive director and communications director experienced in leading international financial PR, corporate, ESG, internal, stakeholder and marketing communications, transformation and change programmes for world-leading, quoted companies, regulated industries, Government departments and educational establishments. She acts as a trusted advisor and critical friend to CEOs, chairman and executives, non-executive directors and senior leadership teams. Sara has sector experience in communications/professional services/management consulting, healthcare, engineering, technology, construction, chemicals, water, environmental services, funeral services, media/publishing and education. Since 2021 she has operated as a communications advisor for FIDIC, Climate Action Group and other clients in the global infrastructure market and since 2011 has been non-executive chair of the Bourne Education Trust, one of the UK’s largest multi-academy educational organisations. Sara is a fellow of the Chartered Institute of Marketing, a member of the Chartered Institute of Public Relations and an associate member of the Institution of Civil Engineers.
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FIDIC, the International Federation of Consulting Engineers, is the global representative body for national associations of consulting engineers and represents over one million engineering professionals and 40,000 firms in around 100 countries worldwide.Founded in 1913, FIDIC has been charged with promoting and implementing the consulting engineering industry’s strategic goals on behalf of its member associations and disseminates information and resources of interest to its members. Today, FIDIC membership spans around 100 countries of the world with a combined population in excess of 6.5 billion people and a combined GDP in excess of $30 trillion. The global industry including construction is estimated to be worth over $22 trillion. This means that FIDIC member associations across the various countries represent an industry that is worth over $8.5 trillion. Through its comprehensive range of market-leading construction contracts, FIDIC also provides the industry with a framework of contractual documentation and procurement guidance which has underpinned many of the world’s landmark construction and infrastructure projects. FIDIC’s standard construction contracts are highly regarded and widely used across the international engineering, construction and infrastructure industry.FIDIC’s key role and that of its member associations around the world is to promote the essential and beneficial role that the engineering consultancy sector plays in improving people’s quality of life through the promotion of quality, integrity and sustainability in the infrastructure industry and the projects and services it delivers on a global scale. In so doing, FIDIC plays a leading role in a global industry sector that does so much to benefit the lives of citizens in every continent around the world.Find out more at fidic.org
Organiser
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FIDIC is transparent and accountable to its members, stakeholders and clients. Information on the deliberations of our board, committees and task groups are made available via the FIDIC website and we issue regular press releases and statements on FIDIC’s work.FIDIC is governed by a set of statutes and bylaws which have been agreed by member associations and are updated as required and ratified at the general assembly meetings during the annual conference.These statutes and bylaws govern a range of issues including membership, the election of the board and the running of various committees and operations.
We extend our sincere appreciation to our local supporting partners whose invaluable support has been integral to the success of the FIDIC Global Infrastructure Conference 2024. Their profound understanding of the regional landscape, regulations and culture has enriched the conference, infusing it with practical insights. The dedication of our local partners has ensured that every aspect of the event is finely tuned to meet the specific requirements of the local infrastructure community.Join us in acknowledging these exceptional partners whose backing forms the cornerstone of this remarkable event.
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Conference media partners
FIDIC’s media partner for the conference is Infrastructure Global(IG), the news and information platform for the international construction and infrastructure sector.IG is passionate about global infrastructure and the contribution it makes to the quality of life of citizens around the world. The global infrastructure market totalled US$3.1 trillion in 2017 and is expected to reach US$4.4 trillion in 2022, growing by 7% on an annual average basis. This is a massive sector providing significant economic and social benefit on a world scale.IG aims to provide a platform for the sector on an international basis to report its latest news, provide analysis and thought leadership through comment, opinion and feature articles and to give a voice to the companies, organisations, people and personalities that work in one of the most important business sectors on the planet.With new technology and digitisation speeding up work processes quicker than ever before, there is an opportunity for those at the cutting edge of infrastructure to take a leadership role and shape the future of our world. IG offers the global industry and all those who work within it the chance to promote their work and insight to an international audience, raising awareness of that work and the companies behind it.During the conference, IG will be reporting live, including on social media, and interviewing speakers and participants on the key issues facing the industry.If you work in the international construction and infrastructure sector, IG wants to hear from you. Send your news, views, comment, opinion and features to the team and make sure that what you are doing is reported in Infrastructure Global.You can email Infrastructure Global at editorial@infra.globalFollow IG on Twitter at @infraglobal1 and on LinkedIn here.