Mark Kirby

I hold a Doctor of Philosophy (PhD) in Construction Management from AUT (Nov 2025). I specialise in system-level productivity and quality management within the residential construction sector.
Academic Qualifications
• PhD Awarded in Construction Management: My doctoral research involved a systemic, mixed-methods (QUANT/ QUAL) investigation into the NZ residential crisis. The thesis used the Theory of Constraints (TOC) model to rigorously prove that the sector's Quality Management failure, more specifically a lack of quality culture, is the primary bottleneck limiting national productivity.
• Master’s In Construction Management 2019 (AUT- First Class Honours)
Published Conference Article and Presentations
• An investigation into quality management systems and factors affecting productivity: the New Zealand residential construction industry” ASA 2022.
• Exploring the interrelations between demographic factors and key variables influencing productivity in New Zealand. NZBERS 2025.
• Sustainable Productivity in NZ Residential Construction: Role of QM. GDI Conference 2025
Published Journal Articles
• Factors for improving productivity in the New Zealand residential sector- JEDT 2024
• A multidimensional analysis of strategies for improving New Zealand residential construction productivity. ASEJ 2025
Accepted Journal Articles
• Unlocking Productivity: The power of a quality culture in New Zealand housing. AJCEB 2025.
Published findings- The Property Foundation
• The Property Foundation Feb 2025 Newsletter- Published findings from my manuscript- A multidimensional analysis of strategies for improving New Zealand residential construction productivity.
Professional Qualifications and Experience
• 30 Years of Industry Experience: I possess over 30 years of hands-on experience in the construction industry, spanning New Zealand and Australia
• Role Progression: My career advanced from a Carpenter by trade to Senior Management and Consultancy roles, giving me a comprehensive perspective on workflow, quality control, and financial constraints from the ground level to the boardroom.
• Professional Certifications: I hold relevant, internationally recognized professional qualifications, including:
o Project Management Professional PMP
o MCIOB- Chartered Construction Manager
My unique expertise is bridging the conceptual gap between high-level QM theory and the operational realities of a fragmented construction market, making my findings particularly relevant and actionable for policy, industry, and the public.