The PMO Strategy and Execution Hub Podcast

S1.E26. Melicia Grant on The Strategic Role of the Chief Project Officer

In this insightful episode of The PMO Community Podcast, we’re joined by Melicia Grant, a project management thought leader with over 15 years of experience in the insurance and financial services industries. Melicia, who holds a Master of Science in Computer-Based Management Information Systems and multiple PMI certifications, shares her expertise on the rising importance of the Chief Project Officer (CPO) role.
Throughout the episode, we cover critical topics such as:
[2:52] The rise of the Chief Project Officer (CPO) role and why organizations need a dedicated CPO to oversee project portfolios.
[4:18] Case studies from Bombardier and the Australian Government Department of Defence, demonstrating how the CPO transformed project outcomes.
[8:20] Challenges organizations face when adopting the CPO role, including concerns of redundancy and overlap with other executive roles, and how to overcome them.
[10:48] The standardization of project management practices and how it contributes to better project outcomes across industries.
[12:40] The evolution of project management from an operational function to a strategic one, and what the future holds for the CPO role.
[15:32] How the CPO approaches risk management at an enterprise-wide level, providing a broader perspective on identifying and mitigating risks.
Melicia’s passion for advancing project management shines through as she shares valuable insights, case studies, and actionable strategies for implementing the CPO role. Whether you're a project management professional or a business leader, this episode provides a wealth of knowledge on the strategic value of the CPO in today's organizations.
#ChiefProjectOfficer #ProjectManagement #PMOLeadership #RiskManagement #StrategicAlignment #ProjectSuccess #Standardization #EnterpriseRisk #CPOInsights #BusinessLeadership #CaseStudies #FutureOfPMOs #PodcastEpisode #PMOCommunity #ProjectOutcomes

S1.E25. Mercy Momah on Closing Skills Gaps and Driving Innovation in PMOs

In this insightful episode of The PMO Community Podcast, we are joined by Mercy Mosunmola Momah, a highly experienced Project Management and Business Analyst professional with over 20 years of expertise across multiple industries. Mercy shares her extensive knowledge on leading complex, multi-million-dollar projects to success while challenging the status quo and driving innovation.
Key Discussion Points:
[2:15] Addressing skills gaps in PMOs: Mercy highlights a success story where implementing a learning and development plan made a significant impact.
[8:37] Managing scope creep: Effective strategies and tools to keep projects aligned with strategic objectives.
[13:37] Engaging stakeholders: How project managers can manage varying expectations and perceptions of value for successful outcomes.
[20:08] Enhancing performance management: Key strategies for improving accountability and fostering continuous improvement within PMOs.
[22:39] The future of PMOs: Mercy shares her vision for PMO evolution and emerging trends leaders need to prepare for in the future.
Throughout the episode, Mercy discusses how her expertise in problem-solving, program delivery, and innovation has helped organizations overcome major challenges and achieve outstanding results.
Tune in for Mercy’s forward-thinking perspectives on project management and how you can apply these strategies in your own work!
#PMOLeadership #ProjectManagement #InnovationInPMO #ScopeCreepSolutions #StakeholderEngagement #PerformanceManagement #SkillsDevelopment #PMOTrends #BusinessSuccess #ContinuousImprovement #LeadershipDevelopment #ProgramDelivery #ProjectSuccess #FutureOfPMOs #ValueDrivenProjects
 

S1.E24. Mayte Sivera on PMOs: From Bureaucracy to Strategy

In this insightful episode of The PMO Community Podcast, we are joined by Mayte Mata Sivera, a globally experienced PMO Director with a background in technology project management. Originally from Spain and now based in the USA, Mayte shares her expertise on transforming traditional PMOs into strategic drivers of success within organizations. With a passion for strategic alignment and continuous education, Mayte brings a wealth of knowledge on how PMOs can adapt to the evolving demands of the business world.
Key Topics Discussed:
Redefining the Traditional PMO: How Mayte successfully shifted a bureaucratic PMO into a true strategic partner for organizations.
The critical role of project governance in driving organizational alignment and success beyond just processes.
The rise of the Chief Project Officer (CPO): What differentiates the CPO from traditional project management roles, and why it’s critical for organizational success.
Continuous Education: How PMOs can create a culture of continuous learning and practical programs to foster team growth.
Leveraging AI and Technology: Specific AI tools and technologies that PMO leaders should explore to save time and enhance project outcomes.
Timeline:
00:00 – Introduction to Mayte Mata Sivera and her background in PMO leadership.
02:20 – Transforming traditional PMOs into strategic drivers: Mayte’s approach.
06:05 – The importance of project governance in aligning projects with organizational goals.
09:15 – The rise of the Chief Project Officer and its growing importance in modern organizations.
12:30 – How PMOs can foster a continuous learning culture.
16:10 – The role of AI and technology in enhancing project outcomes.
19:40 – Final thoughts and advice for PMO leaders looking to stay ahead of industry trends.
Hashtags:
#PMO #ChiefProjectOfficer #ProjectManagement #AI #Governance #StrategicAlignment #ContinuousLearning #Podcast

S1.E23. Joseph Fernandes on Transforming Teams and Securing Executive Support

In this episode of The PMO Community Podcast, we are joined by Joseph Fernandes, a Project Management Professional (PMP) and Certified Scrum Master (CSM) with over two decades of experience in the public and private sectors. Joseph is an expert in building high-performance teams, transforming project management practices, and fostering executive support for strategic initiatives. In this insightful conversation, Joseph shares his strategies for creating psychological safety, promoting team synergy, and aligning project goals with organizational objectives.
Key Topics Discussed:
How to build high-performance teams and the role of the PMO in driving this transformation.
The importance of executive support and how to get the C-suite to champion high-performing teams.
Differences in building high-performance teams in volunteer versus corporate environments.
How to apply Theory of Constraints and Agile methodologies in team-building.
The evolving role of PMO leaders in a world of remote work and digital transformation.
Timeline:
00:00 – Introduction to Joseph Fernandes and his background in project management.
02:16 – Building high-performance teams: How the PMO played a crucial role in transforming a disjointed team.
08:55 – Securing executive support: Strategies to get the C-suite to champion high-performance teams.
11:40 – The difference in building high-performance teams in volunteer teams vs. corporate teams.
14:00 – Using Theory of Constraints and Agile methodologies to drive team performance.
18:00 – The role of PMO leaders in adapting to trends like remote work and digital transformation.
Hashtags:
#PMO #ProjectManagement #HighPerformanceTeams #Agile #CPO #ExecutiveSupport #RemoteWork #DigitalTransformation #Podcast

S1.E22. Luca Del Carlo on Transforming Project Management: Insights on AI, Agile, and PMO Leadership

In this episode of The PMO Community Podcast, we are joined by Luca Del Carlo, a seasoned PMO leader with over two decades of experience in managing complex, multi-million-dollar projects across diverse industries. Luca’s expertise in Agile methodologies, AI integration, and strategic project alignment makes him a thought leader in the ever-evolving world of project management. In this conversation, Luca delves into the modern role of PMOs, the rise of the Chief Project Officer (CPO), and how technology is transforming project management.
Key Topics Discussed:
The critical role of PMOs in today’s fast-paced business environment.
Leveraging AI and advanced technologies to improve project outcomes and decision-making.
Ensuring strategic alignment between projects and broader business goals.
Exploring the different types of PMOs and how to choose the right model for your organization.
The role of the Chief Project Officer (CPO) and how it differs from traditional project management roles.
Timeline:
00:00 – Introduction to Luca Del Carlo and his background in PMO leadership.
02:05 – What is the modern role of PMOs, and why are they critical in fast-paced business environments?
05:00 – How can PMOs leverage AI and technology to improve decision-making and resource management?
07:50 – How can PMOs maintain strategic alignment when organizational priorities shift?
10:45 – Types of PMOs: Supportive, Controlling, and Directive—when each type works best.
13:55 – The rise of the Chief Project Officer (CPO) and the unique value they bring to executive teams.
Hashtags:
#PMO #ProjectManagement #AI #Agile #CPO #Leadership #Technology #Strategy

S1.E21. Nataliia Zarudnieva on The Next Generation of PMO Leaders: How Gen Z is Shaping Project Management

In this episode of The PMO Community Podcast, we are joined by Nataliia Zarudnieva, a certified PMP and an advocate for the next generation of Gen Z project managers. Nataliia shares how Gen Z is reshaping project management with their adaptability, technological expertise, and innovative approaches to leadership and collaboration. We also explore how AI, social media, and a digital-first mindset are influencing the evolution of PMOs.
Key Topics Discussed:
Gen Z’s adaptability and its influence on the future of project management.
Challenges Gen Z project managers face when working with older stakeholders.
The role of AI in building trust and improving decision-making.
The evolving role of the Chief Project Officer (CPO) for Gen Z professionals.
Timeline:
00:00 – Introduction to Nataliia Zarudnieva and her background.
02:00 – How does Gen Z’s adaptability shape the future of project management?
05:15 – What challenges do Gen Z project managers face when working with older stakeholders?
08:40 – How can AI and other tools empower Gen Z to build trust with stakeholders?
12:00 – How does the role of the Chief Project Officer (CPO) differ for Gen Z professionals?
15:10 – What role does social media play in Gen Z’s approach to project management and team collaboration?
18:00 – How can Gen Z leaders ensure strong stakeholder relationships without in-person interaction?
20:30 – What critical skills should Gen Z project managers develop to thrive in a tech-driven future?
Hashtags:
#PMO #GenZ #ProjectManagement #AI #DigitalTransformation #Leadership #CPO #Podcast #PMOCommunity

S1.E20. Sheeba Hasnain on Leading the Digital Shift: The Strategic Evolution of PMOs

In this episode of The PMO Community Podcast, we are joined by Sheeba Hasnain, a trailblazer in digital transformation and project management, with over 18 years of experience in the IT industry. Sheeba has held senior leadership positions, including Senior Digital Transformation Leader and Head of IT Operations, and has led large teams through complex projects. She is also a recipient of several prestigious awards, such as Women in IT and Business 2022 and Visionary Women in AI 2022.
Sheeba discusses the evolution of PMOs, their role in organizational strategy, and the challenges of resistance to change in project management. She also shares valuable insights on using KPIs to measure PMO success and how PMOs will evolve with advancements in digital transformation.
Key Topics Discussed:
The Genesis of PMOs and their evolution over time
How PMOs shifted from project execution to strategic alignment
The influence of PRINCE2 and PMBOK on PMO practices
Overcoming resistance to change and driving adoption of new PMO processes
The role of KPIs in demonstrating PMO success
A case study on the evolution of a multinational firm’s PMO
Timeline:
00:00 – Introduction to Sheeba Hasnain and her background
02:10 – What inspired Sheeba to explore the Genesis of PMOs and their evolution?
03:27 – Origins of PMOs and their initial structure
05:14 – How PMOs shifted toward strategic alignment
07:44 – The role of PMI’s PMBOK Guide and PRINCE2 in PMO evolution
09:35 – Strategies for overcoming resistance to change in PMOs
12:17 – Demonstrating ROI and effective KPIs for PMOs
16:00 – Case study: Evolution of a multinational firm’s PMO
18:40 – The future of PMOs in digital transformation and global standards
Hashtags:
#PMO #DigitalTransformation #ProjectManagement #PRINCE2 #PMBOK #Leadership #KPIs #Podcast #PMOCommunity

S1.E19 Hitesh Adesara on Driving Agile Transformation: The Strategic Role of the Chief Project Officer

In this episode of the The PMO Community Podcast, we are joined by Hitesh Adesara, a seasoned technology leader and FutureEdge50 Award winner, known for his expertise in Agile transformation and technology management across industries like IT, Financial Services, Insurance, and Healthcare.
Hitesh shares his deep insights on the evolving role of the Chief Project Officer (CPO) and how it will shape Agile transformation in modern organizations. As a CIO and an advocate for empathetic leadership, Hitesh explores the intersection of Agile methodologies with business strategy, offering practical advice for aligning organizational objectives with Agile principles.
Key Topics Discussed:
How organizations choose the right Agile framework to drive transformation
The evolving role of the Chief Project Officer (CPO) in facilitating Agile initiatives
Will the CPO replace the Agile Coach, or will they complement each other?
Strategies for CPOs to ensure alignment between Agile mindsets and organizational goals
The future of Agile methodologies and their impact on the role of the CPO
Timeline:
00:00 – Introduction to Hitesh Adesara and his background
02:15 – How do organizations choose the best framework and approach?
04:59 – What role will the Chief Project Officer play in Agile transformation?
08:47 – Can the CPO replace the Agile Coach, or do they complement each other?
11:55 – Recommended strategies for aligning Agile principles with organizational objectives
16:13 – The evolution of Agile methodologies and their impact on the CPO
#AgileTransformation #ChiefProjectOfficer #CPO #AgileLeadership #ProjectManagement #TechnologyLeadership #CIO #AgileMindset #Podcast #pmo

S1.E18 Jake McGaffin on From Project Manager to Chief Project Officer: Navigating Modern PMO Challenges

In this episode of the PMO Community Podcast, host Aina Alive speaks with Jake McGaffin, Vice President of Operations at PMI Olympia Chapter and an expert in project management, leadership, and innovation. Jake shares his insights into the evolution of PMOs (Project Management Offices) and the emerging role of the Chief Project Officer (CPO) in medium-sized enterprises.
We explore the key challenges and strategic advantages of PMOs, resource optimization, and risk management across multiple projects, and how the CPO can serve as a critical bridge between project managers and the C-suite. Jake also discusses real-world examples of successful PMO implementations and the future of project management with the integration of new technologies and methodologies.
Key Questions Discussed:
What prompted the initial creation of PMOs in businesses, and how has their role evolved in medium-sized enterprises over time?
How does the Chief Project Officer role transcend traditional project management boundaries in medium-sized enterprises?
What are the primary functions of a PMO in aligning project management practices with broader strategic objectives?
How does the CPO role differ from traditional project management, and what strategic benefits does it bring?
What challenges do medium-sized enterprises face without a centralized PMO, and how does a PMO address these challenges?
Can you share examples of successful PMO implementations in medium-sized enterprises and the key factors in their success?
How does a PMO aid in resource optimization and risk management across multiple projects?
What is the significance of cross-functional teams under a PMO, and how do they enhance project execution and innovation?
How does a CPO align projects with corporate strategy and manage resource allocation to prioritize strategic projects?
How do you see the roles of PMOs and Chief Project Officers evolving with the integration of new technologies and methodologies?
Tune in to this insightful episode for valuable takeaways on the future of PMOs and the rise of the CPO.

S1.E17. Luis Guardado on Stoic Leadership in Modern Project Management

In this insightful episode, we sit down with Luis Guardado, Vice-President of PMO LATAM and Global Governance at Concentrix™, to explore his unique approach to leadership. Recognized as the "Best PMO of the Americas" and one of CIO Time Magazine’s "Top 5 Revolutionary Business Leaders" of 2024, Luis shares his experiences on navigating corporate strategy and digital transformation across multinational organizations.
We dive deep into the following key topics:
Stoicism in Leadership – How does stoicism shape Luis' leadership style as a Chief Project Officer (CPO), especially in complex project management environments?
Decision-Making and Crisis Management – In today’s fast-paced project environments, how do stoic principles guide rational decision-making and crisis management strategies?
The Evolving Role of the Chief Project Officer – What does it mean to be a CPO in modern organizations, and how does this role influence corporate governance and global strategies?
Tune in for a thought-provoking discussion on leadership, stoicism, and the future of the PMO!