Executive Group

Phil Mehrten – Managing Director
Phil founded Probuild in 1987 and is widely regarded as a leader in the Australian construction industry. Under his expert guidance, the company has become a nation-wide group with a broad focus. Some of the projects he is particularly proud of include the new grandstand for the Victorian Racing Club at Flemington, Victoria Gardens Shopping Centre, Chadstone Shopping Centre and the Myer Bourke Street redevelopment.

Phil is a business management graduate of Harvard Business School, and a member of the Australian Institute of Management.

“Probuild has been built on long-term, client relationships. We attribute this to our personalised and collaborative approach, and our willingness to always go the extra mile to achieve the best quality outcome, delivered on time and on budget, for our clients.”

Ted Yencken – Chairman, Director
Ted joined the company in 1995, bringing a wealth of project management experience. He is dedicated to the general management of Probuild’s business and office support functions and has played a key role in the Group’s strategic planning – in particular its national growth initiatives. Ted is recognised for his vast experience in construction, his keen eye for detail and his unwavering commitment to the very highest levels of professionalism and integrity. He keeps a close eye on all facets of Probuild’s operations, and maintains a strong focus on fostering relationships with all clients.

“We only grow for one reason – that is to let our people grow and develop with us. That is why our strategic planning revolves around those people. We are committed to finding ways to assist them with career path development, and just as importantly, personal growth. We want Probuild to be a safe, secure and enjoyable place to spend a career.”

Michael Sheehy – Company Secretary/Chief Financial Officer
Michael joined Probuild in 2005. In addition to his role as Company Secretary, he oversees the Finance Team, comprising accounts payable, payroll, employee benefits and management accountant positions in his role as Chief Financial Officer. Michael has played a major role in shaping the company’s long-term national strategic plan. His financial expertise has been invaluable in developing sound economic strategies that will stand the company in good stead for many years to come.

“Every new project begins with our team comprehensively understanding the client‘s requirements, and from there, working with the client and their consultants to deliver the very best possible outcome.”

Geoff Thomas – Group Human Resources (HR) and Environmental Health and Safety (EHS) Manager
Geoff has a lengthy construction background and, prior to joining Probuild in 2007, was Director of Worksafe Victoria’s Construction and Utilities Division. He is passionate about promoting health and safety across the company and is actively involved in delivering Probuild’s award winning Work Life Balance Program. The program aims to promote a workplace culture that promotes a balance between work and family. This ground-breaking initiative has been recognised by the Federal Government and Industrial Relations Victoria.

“Probuild genuinely cares about its people, provides a safe environment in which to work, and offers great career opportunities and a supportive network. The company is committed to ensuring all employees have a balance between work and life away from work. Probuild is a great builder that achieves excellent results for clients and shareholders – and it does it with heart.”

Lance Sleeman – Commercial and Risk Manager
Lance joined Probuild in 2008 as an Operations Manager for the company’s Victorian projects. In 2010 he moved into the Commercial and Risk Manager position as part of our newly established Commercial and Risk Team. Lance’s priority is ensuring projects are successfully completed in terms of Occupational Health and Safety, time, cost, quality, and environmental and industrial relations parameters. Lance provides effective leadership for Probuild’s managerial and supervisory team.

“The greatest strength of any company is its people and Probuild is a fantastic company. We have a great group of like-minded, get-on-with-it kind of people, who roll up their sleeves and get on with what has to be done. They do this with a high degree if alignment between their personal values and the corporate values.”

Peter Southwell – State Manager, Victoria and Tasmania
Peter joined Probuild in 2001 and was appointed Victorian State Manager in 2005. He leads our Victorian operations and fulfils a key and active role within the national group. Peter provides support to our Directors and works closely with all of the business departments to ensure our greater objectives are met. Peter has an extensive level of industry experience and maintains a keen focus on client liaison, business development, preconstruction and commercial management while taking responsibility for all construction and operational matters, supported by our Construction Managers.

“One of the great things about construction is that it requires people to work together in teams that grow and develop throughout the life of a project, from inception through to tender, design, construction, completion and handover. Our success is a direct result of the efforts and commitment of the people who make up those teams.”

Eric Meyerowitz – State Manager, Western Australia
Eric is one of Probuild’s most experienced managers, and well placed to lead a dynamic team in one of Australia’s fastest-growing states. He joined Probuild in 2001 and progressed to the role of State Manager, WA in 2006. Eric has led major construction and infrastructure projects in Australia and South Africa, including power stations, health, pharmaceuticals, offices, retail centres, casinos and hotels.
Eric is highly regarded for his organisational skills, coupled with a supportive, pragmatic and empowering approach to management.

“Building Excellence is what we do best!!”

Michael Frost – State Manager, New South Wales and Australian Capital Territory
Michael joined Probuild in 2010, following a successful career with several first tier contractors both in Australia and in the UK. With more than 30 years’ experience in the building and construction industry, Michael is more than qualified to take up the reins as Probuild’s NSW/ACT State Manager. His industry experience covers a range of markets including residential, commercial, retail, education, infrastructure and industrial for both the private and public sectors.

Michael has a reputation for delivering projects on time and within budget.

“Probuild’s strengths are founded upon the passion and commitment to deliver, and to do what we said we would do.”