CQU PhD student Flavio Coelho has received a special commendation in the Professional Managers category, during the Australian Institute of Management (Gladstone region) Management and Business Excellence Awards.

The judges noted Mr Coelho's persistance and ability to apply his research in practical ways.

Mr Coelho's nomination was based on his recent research projects with major Gladstone industries, commercial organisations and community groups.

This research builds on his international education and practical experience in implementation and auditing of environmental, quality and safety management systems.

His PhD work has extended the scope. An integrated system is now available which goes beyond the individual company to include its supply chain and community groups affected by or interested in the operations.

Since being involved in the NIP (Network of Interested Partners) workshops facilitated by Flavio, Boyne Smelters Ltd is not only continuing his methods, but is also suggesting their extension into related companies Comalco and Rio Tinto.

NIP is a new concept and name that has been developed within his research to expand and clarify the concept of supply chain.

BSL Superintendent Strategic Procurement Peter Budd said Flavio’s advanced and state-of-the-art management tool helped companies and their suppliers to monitor and control performance according to sustainable principles.

“His project is being used by BSL and some of its key suppliers to benchmark and improve community and customer relationship management. We have implemented his methods in one of our supply chains,” Mr Budd said.

Flavio’s PhD supervisors include Rod Edwards from CQU’s Faculty of Engineering & Physical Systems and CQU Adjunct Professor David Moy from Brisbane.

The project covers the social, environmental and economic factors inherent in supply chains.

Participants of the NIP and project include Collex, Cleanaway, the Department of State Development, Port Curtis Water Watch, The Gladstone Observer, Central Queensland University and the Boyne Island Environmental Education Centre.