Leon Dimino & PPI Group: A New Chapter in Hydraulic Engineering Leadership
Welcome to the first post by hydraulic engineer and Managing Director of Sparks+Partners Consulting Engineers, Leon Dimino on the opportunity to join PPI Group.
On Wednesday, 19 February, I had an outstanding meeting with Executive Director of the Plumbing Products Industry Group, Nick Tripp to discuss joining the PPI Group as a leading advisor on hydraulic engineering. This invitation marks a significant opportunity to contribute to an organisation deeply committed to addressing industry challenges and driving innovation, which are both passions of mine.
PPI Group is THE association of Australian and New Zealand manufacturers and importers of plumbing products, associated valves, meters, fittings, and materials used in the fabrication of these products. Their extensive network, high-level government connections, and thought leadership opportunities align perfectly with my professional skills and the vision of Sparks+Partners Consulting Engineers to be trusted advisors in hydraulic and fire engineering. Supporting and consulting with PPI Group bridges gaps in the industry, particularly in the hydraulic engineering space, where there is a clear need for leadership and collaboration.
One of the most compelling aspects of this role is the chance to lead PPI Group’s efforts in tackling pressing industry challenges. From disconnects between product manufacturers and buyers to technical issues like PEX piping rejections and Legionella in heated water systems, there is no shortage of critical areas to address. With Sparks+Partners’ strong technical team and my experience in hydraulic and fire systems design, I am confident we can make meaningful contributions to solving these problems.
PPI Group’s global reach, with events across Australia, NZ, the Pacific Islands, Europe, and the US, offers a platform to share insights, collaborate with international experts, and elevate local and national industry standards. The potential to participate in the Plumbing Codes Committee and engage with high-level government officials, including the possibility of meeting with ministers, further underscores the significance of this opportunity.
I am particularly energised by the chance to bring my expertise to PPI’s Special Interest Groups, which focus on specific industry categories. Hydraulic engineering is ripe for innovation, and I am keen to lead initiatives that address issues such as fire safety, water supply, roofing standards, and installation faults, which currently account for around 20% of after-sales costs.
As a trusted advisor, I believe in the power of collaboration and knowledge-sharing to drive positive change. This role with PPI Group represents not only advancement for Sparks+Partners, our team, and my professional input but also a chance to contribute to the broader industry in a meaningful way.
The next steps involve presenting my application to the PPI board. Upon approval, I am ready to integrate into PPI’s activities and take on a leadership role in my field of expertise: hydraulic engineering. Confident that we can address industry challenges, foster innovation, and set new benchmarks for excellence.
This is an exciting new chapter, and I am excited to embark on this journey with PPI Group.