Simon Willson - Marketing and Special Projects

With over 24 years in equipment hire and 15 years specifically in compaction, Simon brings extensive experience and strategic insight to Conplant. Since joining the company in February 2018, he has been instrumental in driving numerous initiatives across the organisation. 

Conplant Journey
Simon’s journey at Conplant exemplifies our commitment to fostering talent and embracing innovation. Over the years, his responsibilities have grown and transitioned through a variety of positions, from Integration Specialist to WA Regional Manager, before finding his niche in Marketing and Special Projects. “The ‘Special Projects’ part of my title means I get involved in all sorts of interesting challenges. One day I might be working on depot strategy, the next I’m diving into website development.”

Leading special projects and now the marketing team has given Simon unique opportunities to contribute to Conplant’s growth in diverse ways. From leading the seamless integration of Compaction Australia’s fleet to developing multiple digital platforms, including Conplant’s website reboot, his work spans multiple business areas.

Simon offers a diverse perspective on equipment investment decisions. One common misconception I encounter is about the true cost of equipment ownership, he explains. “There’s always a cost it’s just a matter of when you pay it. Whether it’s investing upfront in quality equipment, dealing with rapid depreciation of cheaper alternatives, or managing ongoing maintenance costs, understanding this timing is crucial for making informed decisions. 

He’s particularly proud of helping shape the company’s geographical expansion, having worked on both the WA expansion strategy and the Brisbane depot relocation project completed in 2024. These initiatives, along with contributions to Conplant’s industry recognition, including the HRIA Award win in 2022, reflect the collaborative spirit that drives our people, and our businesses, forward.

Simon maintains his industry knowledge through continuous engagement with industry bodies, social media, and white papers. He’s particularly excited about the future of construction equipment: We’re seeing fascinating developments in circular economies, biomimicry, and nature inspired design.

The focus on zero waste, energy efficiency, and sustainable materials is revolutionising how we approach productivity in construction. It’s about getting work done better, faster, and stronger while minimising environmental impact.

For those considering equipment investment, Simon emphasises the importance of thorough assessment: “Understanding when you’re prepared to allocate resources will guide you towards optimising total cost of ownership and operational efficiency. And of course, don’t forget to read our blogs for more insights!”