A planner in CPB Contractors’ tunnelling team in Sydney, Polly Sin joined the company after transferring from Leighton Asia, another CIMIC Group company. We caught up with her to find out about her move.
How did you start your career?
I graduated as a geologist and joined the CIMIC Group’s Leighton Asia in 2012 to work on a tunnelling project in Hong Kong. When that was done, I moved into a corporate planning role and at the end of 2020 I transferred to Sydney to work for CPB Contractors as a planner. I work with other engineers and gather all the information to make sure the work can be done on time.
How did you make the move from Hong Kong to Sydney?
I knew that the CIMIC Group was a big company and I thought there might be an opportunity to work in Australia, so in 2019 I came on a holiday and took the time to visit the office, meet the people and understand what sort of work they were doing.
Everything was good and the people were friendly, so I asked my manager in Hong Kong if there was the potential to transfer to Sydney.
Moving was a very brave thing for me and I amazed myself by jumping out of my comfort zone, but I’m so glad I did. You only live once, so if there is a chance to explore the world, you should go.
How have you found moving from Leighton Asia to CPB Contractors?
Transferring between companies has helped my career and I’ve learnt about different projects and new construction methodologies. I’ve worked with lots of different people and I’ve learnt so much more than I thought I would.
I got all the support I needed. CPB’s HR people have been great, very helpful and patient. I’ve been lucky to work in several teams and all the people I’ve worked with have been friendly and nice.
I have also grown as a person. I love Australia! And I love my life here so far.
What do you like about it?
I have to say Sydney did surprise me. Hong Kong is famous for being a multicultural city, but when I came to Sydney, I really saw what multiculturalism is. I am amazed by the diversity of this city and I’m enjoying it so much. I love the blue sky and the trees. I feel a positive energy and can’t wait to go to the Outback!
What’s your advice to other people thinking about a career move to Australia?
If you are ready for the next step in your career you should go for it. Once you take the first step, the second and third steps come so much easier.