Brett McDowall
Director

Brett has been instrumental in the start up, growth and development of the firm. He oversaw the initial establishment of the business in the mid 90s and has put in place strong systems and processes, world leading software technology and a strong experienced team to ensure that Oxford continues to be known as one of Australia’s leading Construction and Engineering Recruitment specialists.

Brett’s initial training in IR and Business Management spawned an interest in the Construction sector which eventuated in him entering the Building and Civil Construction recruitment industry in Melbourne in 1985. He continues to work with some of the same clients today and his understanding of history, corporate cultures and industry changes over the past 26 years gives him a highly competitive advantage when it comes to the importance of employee success for both the individual and the client. Brett’s long term career within the construction sector and his long standing industry contacts is highly respected by clients who work at a senior decision making level as well as individuals who are also working in leading Corporate or Project Management positions. Senior industry contacts frequently contact Brett McDowall for his opinions on trends, current salaries paid, who’s who and a general outside market overview in permanent Corporate and Project staffing. Brett has a unique perspective about the direction the sector is taking, through his regular contact with Senior Managers running Construction businesses throughout Australia and Internationally.

When not recruiting or advising, Brett McDowall is interested in Rugby, Golf and drinking very good Australian and NZ red wines.

Alby Kunst
Recruitment Director

Alby who has been involved as a Contractor in the Construction industry for over 30 years will use his specific knowledge of Construction to assist Major Contractors in Australia and Internationally with the Senior search of experienced Project and Corporate Managers.

An avid surfer Alby also enjoys following all sports, looking after his German Shepherd and fishing.

Emile Bunt
Director for NZ Operations

A qualified accountant and ex CFO, Emile has found the Construction market to be extremely rewarding. With his specific knowledge of NZ regions and his contacts with senior individuals working for some of the world’s largest International Engineering and Construction Groups. Emile’s new challenge within Oxford is to continue to build the search division in the areas of Civil, Tunneling, Oil and Gas, Water, Waste-Water and Heavy Industrial/Process sectors.

Emile is a proud kiwi who also has a strong Dutch and Lebanese heritage through his parents, he loves being out on the water boating and fishing and is currently busy helping his son become a future All Black.

Tina Patrick
Manager – North America

Tina Manages the Oxford Recruitment USA office out of San Francisco. She has recently moved there after working with Leighton Contractors NSW/ VIC in HR for the last 6 years.
Tina’s role is to source and select USA based civil, energy and heavy industrial construction personnel to relocate and work in Australia.

Tina’s interests are travelling, current affairs and remote wilderness camping.

Andrea Norton
Recruitment Manager

A native Canadian from Vancouver, Andrea manages the Office and Admin Support side of the Oxford business which includes the permanent and temporary placement of individuals into major Construction Projects throughout Australia.

With an industry background in the Energy and Construction sectors, Andrea has significant experience working in roles she now recruits for.

Trent Sherman
Senior Recruiter

Trent is involved in the recruitment for major projects and general roles to project management level. With his 6 years industry experience, Trent has established good contracts in the civil construction sector.
His strengths are in his ability to relate to individuals within the construction Industry and then utilise Oxford’s industry contacts in securing outstanding opportunities for individuals interested in improving their short and long term career options.

Outside of work Trent enjoys following and participating in various sports, including swimming, golf and rugby.

David Hastings
Talent Sourcer

David has recently moved from England to Australia, having completed a degree in History from the University of East Anglia. As a sourcer, he is responsible for discovering and identifying new talent for specific roles within the construction industry using his strong research skills.

Outside of work David enjoys grid iron and rugby union, and is slowly learning how to surf. He is a keen reader and enjoys live music.

Sam Lyons
Communications Co-ordinator

Sam has over 8 years communications, marketing and media experience with national and international companies. Sams responsibilities include sourcing appropriate local and international talent pipelines required for the sourcing of suitable construction personnel.

Outside of the professional environment Sam holds a keen interest in photography, movies and food.

Patrick Barclay
Search Associate

Patrick is currently in his fourth year of a bachelor of engineering (civil) & Bachelor of commerce (Finance). Patrick has worked overseas with Engineers Without borders and is a member of Engineers Australia.
Patrick is responsible for local and international search and research assignments in the areas of projects and people.

Patrick interest include competitive sports, especially cricket, food especially Indian cuisine and finance.

Byron Fairman
International Candidate Relations

Byron is currently completing a bachelor of law/psychology and has been working in customer relations roles for 6 years. Byron is responsible for maintaining close communication with our international candidates during all stages of the recruitment process.

Byron is a keen Queensland Reds and Wallaby’s rugby supporter and also enjoys basketball, reading and music (particularly early motown).