meet the boss

MEET THE BOSS: FLORA WAMBETI

WAMBETI LEGAL PTY LTD

Wambeti Legal is a law firm that specialises in construction law, initial contract negotiations, contract management, risk management and commercial advice.

According to Flora Wambeti, Principal, Wambeti Legal Pty Ltd, "We provide intelligent strategies and solutions for small to medium businesses involved in the engineering and construction industries.

"We work with clients in various industries, including construction, oil and gas, energy, technology, engineering, and others."

Wambeti Legal's construction law specialities include initial contract negotiations, contract management, risk management and commercial advice.

WHY FLORA WAMBETI LAUNCHED INTO BUSINESS OWNERSHIP

After 15 years of experience in Tier 1 and 2 companies in several sectors, including construction, and armed with a Master of Laws from Monash University, Wambeti saw first-hand what small and medium-size businesses were willing to sacrifice to win tenders and jobs from a large Tier 1 company. According to Wambeti, decisions made to tender in haste or even in fear can be devastating for an SME. The experienced in-house lawyer had witnessed the results of ill-informed decision-making by smaller businesses, often unknowingly and with good intent. Moreover, the compassionate Wambeti felt helpless by being unable to help. With those accounts mounting over the years, Flora Wambeti decided to use her experience and expertise to help small and medium businesses navigate, with confidence and success, the complexities of construction law, and Wambeti Legal launched in 2021.

HOW IS WAMBETI SUPPORTING THE CIVIL CONSTRUCTION INDUSTRY IN SA?

"The civil construction industry has experienced shockwaves over the past couple of years due to COVID-19," notes Wambeti.

"We are supporting clients by helping them manage risk in their new and existing contracts. "Contracts in the civil construction industry require more compliance and documentation, and we are helping them with contract management." Wambeti continues, “The old days of managing a contract on an ad-hoc basis are long gone. Companies that succeed in winning repeat business have invested in building a solid customer relationship. One of the best ways to build that relationship is to invest time and resources into contract management.”

HOW HAVE YOUR SERVICES SUPPORTED CIVIL CONSTRUCTION FIRMS?

Wambeti supports clients in achieving specific bespoke legal solutions in their business. Wambeti explains, "For each client, their specific project is as important to us as it is for them, and it is fair to say that any project can make or break a client. For that reason, any project where our services are required is treated with care and attention.

"Our clients are typically small to medium businesses, and we see opportunities grow across Australia." Wambeti continues, "Irrespective of the size of your civil construction company, there are many opportunities to win new work in South Australia. I value and enjoy helping businesses that are keen to grow, and over time, I see Wambeti Legal being able to share in the growth journey of such a business.”

WHEN SHOULD YOU ENGAGE A CONSTRUCTION LAWYER?

In a commercial (or business) setting, law firms are often engaged when a company or person needs to engage in litigation. Wambeti says, "We understand that this is sometimes necessary when things have gone wrong.

"This approach, however, is a considerably expensive one and places enormous demands on your valuable time and resources. A well-run business should identify and manage risk more proactively rather than putting out the fires caused by the consequences of poor contract negotiation and management. "Our legal services cater to companies who deal in project work and those who must tailor their approach to each contract on a case-by-case basis or scope-by-scope basis.”

THE JOYS OF BEING A BOSS

As the business owner, Flora Wambeti oversees the running of the business. "I also collaborate with high calibre professionals in other key skill sets." Wambeti says her day-to-day activities can vary widely but can include: ф Tailoring templates for a customer to use for their contract management ф Taking meetings with clients ф Reviewing a contract and researching the relevant project ф Answering emails Flora Wambeti adds, "If I have time, I'll jot down some paragraphs for an article or blog on our website."

THE ACHIEVEMENTS OF BUSINESS OWNERSHIP

Flora Wambeti says that every client is unique, and she takes pride in helping them achieve a bespoke solution that suits their needs. "It is essential to make each client feel that they are unique. "I also believe that being customerfocused is one of the most important ingredients of being a good business owner. Some of the other crucial ingredients of running a successful business are having a clear purpose and finding your niche. Also, being adaptable, having an open mind, self-awareness and not being afraid of failure are crucial skills a business owner needs to succeed."

WHAT DO YOU LIKE ABOUT BEING YOUR BOSS?

Wambeti admits that there are many things to like about running your own business, including "being able to run my schedule". "As a boss, I control my career and my future, and I can be directly involved in helping others succeed in their business through my work," she says. “I enjoy a diverse learning experience with each client, and as a boss, I have a greater sense of satisfaction with my work."

WHAT CAN YOU EXPECT WHEN YOU WORK WITH WAMBETI LEGAL?

When you engage with Wambeti Legal for legal advice for your contract or project, the team takes the time to understand the scope of work and a business’ systems and structures. Wambeti says, "Once we understand your business and your objctives, we can provide bespoke legal expertise." One easy way to be confident in your choice to work with Wambeti Legal is to book an initial 15-minute complimentary session; obligation-free. Sessions are in person, by phone or by video conference. To book an initial complimentary session with Wambeti Legal, email hello@wambetilegal.com.au

/big-chief @bigchiefhireaustralia /bigchiefhire

When you need big equipment for big jobs - backed by the best safety, service and support - you'll find it all and more at Big Chief Hire. See our state-of-the-art range of trucks and earthmoving equipment available for hire now in South Australia, Victoria and Queensland.

Anytime, Anywhere – Big Chief will be there.