24 CORPORATE VISION / April 2017 , Dr Davies M. Mulenga tells us what makes the perfect expert witness, and what it felt like to be awarded the prestigious title of Expert Witness of the Year 2017 - Chartered Civil Structural Engineer. Witnessing Expertise DM Mulenga Enterprise and Engineering Ltd provides expert witness support in forensic engineering for construction litigation cases worldwide. The company also specialises in civil structural engineering design, inspections and assessment including review of technical approvals along with entrepreneurship and structures asset management. Dr Davies M. Mulenga tells us more about the firm’s client base and its mission. “We work for legal firms and various clients which manage, maintain, and plan for residential, commercial, and industrial type buildings including highway bridges and structures,” he begins. “Our vision is to make an impact in improving people’s lives and grow to be one of the world’s most respected expert witness, engineering and structures asset management consultancies.” The role of an Expert Witness has proven to be key as they provide a technical analysis on a case. “It involves consideration of all evidence to be presented at trial and then advise the court on the areas where liability lies,” Davies embellishes. “He is able to explain complicated issues in a clear manner which not only delivers a distinction between facts and opinions but furthermore, achieve a reasonable settlement quickly and effectively. “Our expert support can help clients resolve and win cases, removing the need for hefty litigation costs and the time clients and their business need to invest in dispute resolution.” A successful expert witness should be able to provide independent, objective and unbiased evidence and would require solid legal and courtroom skills in addition to outstanding skills on the subject matter. Davies quotes Dr Chris Pamplin’s UK register of Expert Witnesses to give us more of an idea of the skills an expert witness should possess: • A sound knowledge of the subject matter in dispute, and, usually, practical experience of it • The powers of analytical reasoning required to fulfil his assignment • The ability to communicate findings and opinions clearly, concisely and in terms adapted to the tribunal before which evidence is being given • The flexibility of mind to modify opinions in the light of fresh evidence or counter-arguments • The ability to ‘think on one’s feet’, so necessary in coping with cross-examination, and a demeanour that is likely to inspire confidence, particularly in court appearances. Can you tell me about your story as an expert witness and the journey you have taken in this role? Davies’ journey as an expert witness started soon after he attained his PhD in Structural Engineering & Concrete Technology. He tells us more about the role and how he found himself on this fascinating career path. “To become an expert, you need to take the journey of learning more. Despite some challenges, I managed to have a very successful journey marked with great achievements in various high profile litigation disputes where my expert advice contributed to significant savings worth millions of pounds.” Davies is a dedicated, dynamic and highly motivated Chartered Civil Structural Engineer (CEng, MICE) combining more than 23 years’ international construction industry experience with a proven track record of delivering complex, multimillion pound projects on time, on budget and to exceptionally high standards. “I have expertise in structural materials, concrete technology, asset management and the research, design, construction, assessment, inspection and maintenance of buildings, floors, bridges, stadia, highways and rail infrastructure. I am also an expert in durability of concrete structures and Thaumasite Form of Sulphate Attack. “My extensive expert witness experience includes advising on the construction dispute of the £783m national football stadium at Wembley, London. I also supplied technical advice and a presentation at a Mediation to build Europe’s second largest stadium. “I have undertaken expert witness work worldwide, and I am fluent in English, German and Bemba with basic French language skills.” Recently, Davies and his firm were awarded the prestigious accolade of Expert Witness of the Year 2017, something which he describes as a stunning experience. “It took a while to believe I had won, but then I enjoyed my shining moment,” jokes Davies. “It certainly raises our company profile and credibility locally in the United Kingdom and internationally. “The recognition validates that I am capable of making impact in the engineering and expert witness world. “I am humbled to win the ‘Expert Witness 2017 - Chartered Civil Structural Engineer award’ and to be celebrated as one of the most successful, innovative and influential expert witness professionals within the UK and across the world.” With regards to the future, Davies aims to continue to provide the best expert witness services to meet client’s needs and to become the company of choice globally. “My dream is to work collaboratively and partner with industry leaders in engineering and law, to achieve our vision.” Company: DM Mulenga Enterprise & Engineering Ltd Name: Dr Davies M. Mulenga, Director Email:
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