Jeevadaramu Addepalli
Before pursuing my Master of Engineering Management at CQUniversity, I had laid the foundation for a solid career in mechanical engineering. I completed my undergraduate degree in mechanical engineering and began working in India across various roles that involved design, fabrication, and project coordination. These early experiences helped me understand the practical challenges of engineering delivery, especially in fast-paced manufacturing and industrial environments. During this period, I worked with companies like Infosys and others in engineering and IT services. I was part of multidisciplinary teams that handled production, supplier communication, quality checks, and client-side support.
My roles gradually transitioned into responsibilities that required more than technical execution—I was involved in process improvement, vendor management, and cross-functional decision-making. It became clear that to progress further in my career, I would need formal training in leadership, strategy, and business systems that underpin technical projects. I was actively working while exploring options to further my education. I wasn’t just looking for any postgraduate degree; I was seeking a program that could bridge the gap between engineering practice and managerial leadership. I wanted to build competencies in project management, operations, procurement, and business analytics, allowing me to move into leadership roles and handle complex, multi-stakeholder projects.
After completing my studies, I transitioned into Health, Safety, and Environment (HSE) leadership roles with time. Over the past decade, I managed workplace safety systems and compliance requirements across various high-risk sectors. I implemented and audited ISO 45001-based frameworks, led incident investigations, and trained workforces to ensure a safety culture. Much of my HSE experience was in remote or high-risk environments, including mining and infrastructure projects. I oversaw emergency preparedness, risk mitigation, and contractor safety, building systems that were practical, effective, and compliant with regulatory expectations.
My work now involves end-to-end project management, procurement, and sourcing across engineering, mining, and manufacturing sectors. I oversee the delivery of capital and OPEX projects, manage supplier relationships, negotiate contracts, and ensure timely, cost-effective procurement of materials such as CNC-machined, casted, and forged parts. I also develop business continuity plans, WHS documentation, and tender submissions. Through Chaim Consulting, I offer outsourced CAD, Adobe design, and web development services to support SMEs in digital transformation and cost reduction. My role requires technical insight, commercial acumen, and cross-border coordination to deliver high-quality outcomes for clients in Australia and beyond.
