Andrea Chao

I am a partner in our office in Amsterdam focusing on complex construction projects in the Construction & Infrastructure practice. These are projects that require innovative and collaborative solutions to ensure success.

My specialism relates to construction and procurement law, with a specific focus on complex circular economy, utility, water (safety), infrastructure, energy, and other construction and infrastructure projects.

I am of the view that construction contracts should primarily be used as a tool to ensure a fitting collaboration between parties and stakeholders (and individuals on their behalf) to meet project goals, rather than merely as a way to determine how to deal with projects gone sour. Collaboration between clients and contractors can for instance be improved by providing for a legal framework to stimulate communication, a proactive solution-driven attitude and positive behaviour. The goal is to prevent failure costs and allow for parties to be proud of their projects.

I am a member of the editorial board of the Dutch Construction Law review and a member of the Netherlands Council of the International Project Finance Association (IPFA). In addition, I have co-initiated and co-drafted the Dutch early contractor involvement model contract of Duurzaam Gebouwd (DG2020) and am chairperson of the international FIDIC (International Federation of Consulting Engineers) Task Group-17, which is assigned to prepare the new international model contract on collaborative contracting.

I regularly chair tender/advisory committees for construction projects, such as SBIR (Strategic Business Innovation Research) Evaluation Committee on Circular Overpasses, and the tender board of the water sanitation plant of Water Authority Rijnland.

In addition, on a frequent basis I publish (academic) articles, contribute to books, speak at national and international events, and am interviewed on developments within the construction sector.