Turning tension into trust: conflict avoidance in complex project environments

Richard Bayfield FICE, FCIArb

Richard Bayfield began his career working as a student at the Thames Barrier. He has held a variety of senior roles as a contractor, consultant and client. 

He is currently a vice president at the Institution of Civil Engineers. He is a former chair and honorary member of the Society of Construction Law. Recent roles include client director / advisor where he helps client organisations set up processes, communications, contracts and governance that are purposefully designed to achieve collaborative cultures which reduce the risk of project failure. 

Sue Barret

Sue is head of contracts and procurement at the Houses of Parliament Restoration and Renewal Delivery Authority, leading the Development of the Procurement Strategy for the programme.

Sue has worked in the construction industry for over 25 years, in a range of procurement and senior leadership roles. Her experience includes delivering enhancements to strategic network extensions, station capacities and interchanges, and station upgrade schemes. 

Veronica Flint Williams

Veronica joined the Environment Agency in 2010 after more than two decades in the private sector, where she specialised in the water industry’s commercial and contracting divisions.

A qualified civil engineer, she brings her technical expertise to the infrastructure and construction sector, ensuring projects deliver sustainable and resilient outcomes. Veronica is a Fellow of the Institution of Civil Engineers and is passionate about mentoring and inspiring the next generation of professionals.

Since joining the Environment Agency, Veronica has played a pivotal role in shaping its commercial strategies across current and future frameworks. As part of the Commercial Centre of Excellence, she sets the standards and best practices for engaging with construction delivery partners. Her work focuses on managing commercial and contractual risk, ensuring a balanced approach that supports successful project delivery through collaborative partnerships.

Edward Moore

Edward is the chief executive of ResoLex and an industry leader in operationalising collaborative environments on complex projects, with a particular focus on building effective foundations for strong, lasting relationships. He has supported outcome delivery through collaboration on multiple nationally significant programmes across the UK, including HS2, Crossrail, the New Hospital Programme, and the London 2012 Olympics.

Alongside his work in major projects, Ed serves as chair of trustees for Concordis International, a peacebuilding charity which helps facilitate dialogue in some of the world’s most challenging humanitarian environments. While far removed from infrastructure delivery, there is a consistent theme between the two roles: sustainable outcomes depend on trust, alignment, and shared purpose.