Meet Brendan, MEVCO’s Director of Vehicle Programs, leading innovation from Melbourne. With his extensive background in the automotive sector, Brendan is a driving force behind the development of cutting-edge solutions at MEVCO.
Can you share a brief history of your work experience?
I have 15 years in the automotive sector, starting in R&D on electronic parts, multimedia systems, and advanced safety systems, then moving into connected telematics. At Toyota Australia, I held three key roles:
- Head of Strategy for Connected Ecosystem: Focused on future connected vehicle products and services
- Head of Program / Chief Engineer for Next Connected Vehicle Platform: Led a $1.8B program on connected vehicle technology
- Chief Engineer for Next-Generation BEV Vehicle for AU Region: Led advancements in BEV technology
How has this experience led you to MEVCO, and how does it help with your role?
- My experience at Toyota is vital to my role at MEVCO:
Leading complex vehicle programs & digital transformations - Deep knowledge of automotive OEM processes & controls
- Managing cross-functional teams and delivering customer-focused products
- Driving innovation across global teams
Promoting sustainability and zero-emission technologies aligns with my personal goals for a better world for my kids.
Share your thoughts on your current role and challenges?
My role is dynamic, with each day presenting new challenges. Initially, we had minimal controls and ambitious goals. I’ve implemented processes to turn concepts into viable products. Balancing cost and time constraints is crucial. My approach helps us make swift, informed decisions, ensuring progress without compromising quality.
What excites you about your work?
I’ve always been curious about how things work, leading me to engineering. Seeing our solutions positively impact customers is incredibly rewarding. I enjoy mentoring team members and creating effective teams to tackle challenges and deliver exceptional results.
Thoughts on the future of mining Light Vehicles (LVs), challenges and opportunities?
Mining LVs are rapidly transitioning to Battery Electric Vehicle (BEV) powertrains, aligning with ESG goals and sustainability. BEVs are more efficient, easier to maintain, and safer, especially underground. Our challenge is managing the fossil fuel transition. Opportunities include predictive maintenance, live services, and adding new services as we deploy BEVs.
Can you tell us a little about your family, hobbies, and anything you’d like to share?
Family: Wife (Jayne), Kensi (4.5), Levi (2.5). Family is hugely important to me.
Hobbies: Played competitive sport from a young age, cricket, basketball & footy (AFL). I also built a custom smart home on an open-source platform, focusing on usability and new automations.
Thank you, Brendan, for your unwavering dedication and invaluable contributions to the MEVCO team. Your passion for innovation and sustainability continues to drive the future of mining EVs. We’re excited to see where your leadership will take us next!
