Mr Vishwa Reddy, manager of Pacific Steel's Fiji Rolling Mill, was awarded the Champion of Innovation at the inaugural Fletcher Building Innovation Awards, held on November 3rd 2011 at Eden Park in Auckland. The award was jointly shared with Mr Travis Griffin from Stramit Building Products.

Mr Reddy's entry showcased an eclectic mix of innovations, cost saving and health & safety initiatives over the course of his eleven years he has been with the Pacific Steel Rolling Mill based in Fiji.

In 2004, the mill needed to replace their 6000 liter waste oil tank. By purchasing a used tank from BP for USD 1 and refurbishing it in house for USD 6,000 the company saved USD 40,000. Similar savings were made in 2008, when a temporary lathe was made on site to refurbish a commutator. The commutator now draws fewer amps which reduces Fiji’s electricity grid load, reducing energy costs. Eleven examples were provided to the judging panel of initiatives that were led by Mr Reddy.

From a total of 74 entries across 6 different categories, the Champion of Innovation Award is the only category that acknowledged the efforts of an individual employee.

Mr Andy Hamilton, judge and CEO of the ICEHOUSE, said that "Mr Vishwa Reddy stood out as a champion of innovation. Not just one example, but many examples built up over years of innovating for Pacific Steel and their customers. Working with very little resources, acting with leadership and just getting things done truly a great champion, the examples of his innovations are fantastic."

Champions in their own field, the independent judging panel also included Mr Murray Jack CEO of Deloitte, Mr Richard Aitken, chairman of Beca Group Limited and Mr Alan Jackson, non executive director of Fletcher Building.