S1.E22. Luca Del Carlo On Transforming Project Management: Insights On AI, Agile, And PMO Leadership The PMO Strategy And Execution Hub podcast

33:35

What happens when AI becomes a job requirement—and human roles have to justify their own existence? In this eye-opening episode, Aina Alive welcomes back Gerard Pietrykiewicz to explore a bold internal memo from Shopify’s CEO ( https://www.forbes.com/sites/douglaslaney/2025/04/09/selling-ai-strategy-to-employees-shopify-ceos-manifesto/ ) that declares a hiring freeze unless a role cannot be done by AI. What does that mean for hiring managers, career paths, and the future of work as we know it? Together, Aina and Gerard unpack: Why polished answers in interviews might now be a red flag How to tell if someone is truly skilled—or just great at prompting ChatGPT What the disappearance of junior roles means for long-term talent development Why communication—not just technical skill—is now the top hiring priority What “AI-ready” really means—and how to test for it ethically This episode is your preview to a deeper conversation happening in our upcoming live webinar on May 1st: “Hiring for the Future: Building and Leading AI-Driven Teams” ( https://www.linkedin.com/events/hiringforthefuture-buildingandl7312833137795821568/ ) Whether you’re a hiring manager, team lead, volunteer, or future-focused professional—this one’s for you.…

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S2.E1.AI in Project Management: Tools, Risks, and the Future of PM with Gerard Pietrykiewicz 31:42

9 weeks ago31:42

31:42

In this episode, Aina sits down with Gerard, a seasoned program manager and AI enthusiast, to explore the real-world impact of AI on project management. Together, they break down practical use cases, risks, and misconceptions surrounding tools like ChatGPT, Copilot, and Gemini. Gerard shares how AI helps him handle technical documentation, generate slide decks, and save hours on routine tasks. They discuss the growing necessity of AI proficiency, privacy concerns, and how the role of project managers is shifting from administrative work to leadership. Is AI a threat or a powerful ally? Can PMs afford to resist adopting AI? Tune in for an honest, practical conversation packed with insights you can apply immediately. Plus, a sneak peek at their next episode on AI agents. What was discussed: AI Tools: "From your perspective as a project manager, program manager, and AI enthusiast, what are some AI tools that project managers should pay attention to?" Technical Documentation: "You mentioned to me a few cases where AI was helping you with technical documentation. Can you share with the audience how AI can help us create technical documentation, and if you have any examples, could you walk us through?" Privacy & Security Risks: "AI definitely helps us with learning technical dry documentation, but how do you feel about uploading it to ChatGPT, especially if companies have privacy and security settings that you cannot use documentation outside of the organization?" Risk Mitigation: "How can AI assist in risk mitigation by identifying gaps in documentation?" Time-Saving with AI: "You mentioned that you use AI to help you with time-saving. We all know AI can help with email replies and Excel reports, but you also mentioned slide decks, which I don’t utilize AI for yet. Can you tell us more about this?" Hallucinations: "We all know that AI loves hallucinating. How can project or portfolio managers verify the accuracy of AI-generated content?" Biggest Misconception: "What is the biggest misconception project managers have about AI from your perspective?" Workload Impact: "Here maybe my misconception comes into play. If AI takes most of our administrative work, will we be expected to manage more projects simultaneously than we already do?" AI Resistance: "What do you think happens to project managers who resist adopting AI?" #AIinPM #ProjectManagementAI #AIProductivity #ChatGPTforPMs #AIAgents #AIWorkflows #TechnicalDocumentation #PrivacyInAI #AIandLeadership #TimeSavingWithAI #FutureOfPM #AIMisconceptions #AIResistance #AinaAlivePodcasts #projectmanagement #portfoliomanagement #pmo…

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S1.E32. Demi Anderson on Transforming PMOs into Strategic Business Partners 18:39

26 weeks ago18:39

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In this episode of the PMO Community Podcast, Aina Alive hosts Demi Anderson, a strategic PMO leader, to discuss transforming PMOs from administrative functions to strategic assets that align with organizational goals. Demi shares insights on evolving PMOs, practical strategies for aligning with long-term business goals, the rise of the Chief Project Officer, and overcoming resistance to change. Key Moments: [3:10] The evolution of PMOs from administrative entities to strategic business partners , with a specific example of transformation. [10:55] Practical steps for PMO leaders to align initiatives with long-term organizational goals , including a real-world success story. [15:00] The rising prominence of the Chief Project Officer role and how it differs from traditional project management leadership. Hashtags: #PMO #StrategicLeadership #ChiefProjectOfficer #ProjectManagement #ChangeManagement #Innovation #Podcast…

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S1.E31. Farahana Jobanputra on Choosing the Right PMO Structure: Insights for Strategic Impact 35:08

27 weeks ago35:08

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In this episode of the PMO Community Podcast, Aina Alive interviews Farahana Jobanputra, a PMO expert with extensive experience across asset management, insurance, and capital markets. Farahana offers insights on choosing between centralized and federated PMO structures, strategies for transforming PMOs into strategic assets, and approaches for building executive alignment in uncertain economic conditions. She also shares a case study on a Canadian bank transformation and critical KPIs that PMOs should track to demonstrate business value. Key Moments: [2:23] How to assess centralized vs. federated PMO structures, with a real-world example of a company making this decision. [6:25] Strategies to shift PMO perception from administrative overhead to strategic asset. [9:17] Techniques for supporting portfolio prioritization and aligning projects with long-term business goals. [12:35] Building executive alignment and stronger relationships with leadership. [19:25] Case study: transforming a department from least compliant to most compliant in a Canadian bank. [23:24] Essential KPIs for PMOs to track to demonstrate business value and support decision-making. [28:20] Effective strategies for overcoming resistance to PMO changes in regulated industries. Hashtags: #PMO #ProjectManagement #PortfolioManagement #ExecutiveAlignment #KPIs #BusinessStrategy #ChangeManagement…

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S1.E30 Massimo Pirozzi on Redefining Project Success: Beyond Deliverables 24:20

28 weeks ago24:20

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In this enlightening episode of the PMO Community Podcast, Aina Alive sits down with Massimo Pirozzi, a globally recognized project management expert, to discuss how a value-driven approach redefines project success. Massimo shares his journey and expertise in focusing on value beyond project deliverables, guiding us through methods for aligning stakeholder expectations with organizational strategy. Key Moments: [00:01:20] Introduction to Massimo’s Background [00:02:05] What inspired Massimo to explore value beyond project delivery, and why is this shift essential in modern project management? [00:03:15] How does a value-based approach differ from traditional project management methods? [00:04:25] What strategies help project managers manage and align diverse stakeholder expectations effectively? [00:06:10] Massimo shares techniques for setting and agreeing on project priorities, even amidst organizational challenges. [00:07:50] With 30% of projects failing to meet their original goals, what steps can project teams take to improve structuring and planning? [00:09:30] Examples of key performance indicators (KPIs) that effectively measure perceived and delivered value in projects. [00:11:00] What crucial role does the PMO play in enhancing project value, and how can it adapt to support a value-driven approach? [00:12:40] Real-world examples where a value-based approach has successfully improved project outcomes. [00:14:05] Looking to the future, how will value-based project management evolve, especially with the rising complexity of projects and the role of the Chief Project Officer? Tune in to uncover actionable insights and practical strategies from Massimo Pirozzi that can transform your approach to project management by prioritizing value at every stage. Hashtags: #ValueBasedPM #ProjectManagement #PMOCommunity #ProjectSuccess #StakeholderEngagement #KPI #Leadership #Podcast…

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S1.E29 Michael Jablonski on Empathy, Innovation, and the Role of the Chief Project Officer 21:09

28 weeks ago21:09

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In this episode of the PMO Community Podcast, host Aina Alive speaks with Michael Jablonski, a seasoned project management professional with over 20 years of experience in the Education and Logistics industries. Known for his dedication to human-centric leadership and strategic alignment, Michael shares his perspective on the evolving role of the Chief Project Officer (CPO) and its importance in modern organizations. Episode Highlights & Timecodes: [03:21] – Emergence of the CPO Role : Michael discusses what’s driving the need for CPOs and how this role differs from traditional project management. [05:03] – The Strategic Value of the CPO : Michael shares how CPOs can position themselves as strategic partners within executive teams. [07:00] – Balancing Strategic and Human Goals : Insights on how successful CPOs balance high-level goals with nurturing team dynamics. [09:55] – Human-Centric Leadership : Michael explains what human-centric leadership means to him and why it’s essential in today’s project management landscape. [11:58] – Future of Human-Centric Leadership : Looking ahead, Michael shares his thoughts on the evolution of human-centric leadership within project management. [14:43] – Preparing for Future Challenges : Michael discusses how CPOs should prepare for the future, focusing on tools and strategies to stay ahead, especially with AI. [17:07] – Innovation Through Leadership : Michael’s “Innovation Huddles” and how creating similar spaces can foster creativity and drive impactful project outcomes. Hashtags: #ProjectManagement #Leadership #HumanCentricLeadership #Innovation #ChangeManagement #ChiefProjectOfficer #StrategicAlignment #CPO #PMOCommunity #MichaelJablonski #AinaAlive #PodcastEpisode #FutureOfWork #EmpathyInLeadership #AIInProjectManagement…

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S1.E28. Quincy Chapman on Navigating Leadership and Innovation 24:49

29 weeks ago24:49

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In this episode of the PMO Community Podcast, host Aina Alive sits down with Quincy Chapman, a senior leader known for his expertise in strategic innovation, operations, and change management. Quincy shares his incredible journey, from discovering his calling in project leadership to transforming underperforming operations into centers of innovation. Listeners will gain insights into pivotal moments that shaped Quincy’s leadership, including his unique approach to overcoming complex challenges, fostering unity and communication, and maintaining integrity through adversity. From tackling “villain” projects to celebrating small victories, Quincy offers actionable advice for aspiring leaders on building resilient, agile teams and inspiring cultural transformation. Tune in to uncover valuable lessons in leadership, creativity, and the future of project management. Episode Highlights & Timecodes: [03:40] – Discovering the Calling : Quincy discusses the moment he realized that project leadership was his true calling. [06:45] – Top Challenges in Software Development : Quincy describes his biggest challenges in software development projects and how he overcame them. [10:35] – Maintaining Integrity through Betrayal : Insights on how Quincy upheld his integrity while facing internal challenges and betrayal. [13:30] – Evolving as a Leader : Quincy reflects on a pivotal moment that required him to shift his leadership approach. [18:13] – Celebrating Small Wins : How recognizing and celebrating small victories impacted his team’s morale and productivity. [22:00] – Advice for Aspiring Leaders : Quincy’s advice for young professionals aiming for leadership roles in project management. Don't miss this inspiring conversation, and be sure to follow us on LinkedIn, Spotify, and Apple Podcasts for more insightful episodes! #ProjectManagement #Leadership #Innovation #ChangeManagement #TeamBuilding #StrategicLeadership #AgileMindset #PMOCommunity #QuincyChapman #PodcastEpisode #CareerGrowth #InspiringLeaders #ProjectSuccess #CelebrateWins #LeadershipAdvice…

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S1.E27. Dimitry Shlyonsky on Leveraging the P3O Personas Framework and the Rise of the Chief Project Officer 30:48

30 weeks ago30:48

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In this episode of The PMO Community Podcast , I’m joined by Dimitry Shlyonsky, a Director of IT PMO with extensive experience in managing global PMOs, large ERP programs, and sustainability initiatives. Dimitry, the creator of the P3O Personas Framework, shares his insights on how categorizing project managers based on their skills and experiences can significantly improve project outcomes and career progressions. Key Discussion Points: [2:00] Introduction to the P3O Personas Framework and its role in improving project outcomes by assigning the right project managers to the right projects. [5:30] Career progression in PMOs: A success story of a project manager transitioning from a Work Package Manager to a Portfolio Manager. [11:45] The critical role of financial tracking in project success, with a detailed case study from Dimitry’s chapter contribution. [16:15] How the P3O Personas framework adapts to support remote teams and Agile methodologies in a world of digital transformation. [20:55] The rise of the Chief Project Officer (CPO) and the challenges and opportunities for project managers aspiring to reach the C-suite. Dimitry offers a deep dive into leadership, mentorship, and the evolving landscape of PMOs in today’s fast-paced business environment. Tune in to hear how his framework is shaping the future of project management and how the role of the Chief Project Officer is emerging as a strategic necessity for organizations.…

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S1.E26. Melicia Grant on The Strategic Role of the Chief Project Officer 21:03

31 weeks ago21:03

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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…

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S1.E25. Mercy Momah on Closing Skills Gaps and Driving Innovation in PMOs 25:08

31 weeks ago25:08

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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…

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S1.E24. Mayte Sivera on PMOs: From Bureaucracy to Strategy 23:30

31 weeks ago23:30

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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…

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S1.E23. Joseph Fernandes on Transforming Teams and Securing Executive Support 21:52

32 weeks ago21:52

21:52

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…

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S1.E22. Luca Del Carlo on Transforming Project Management: Insights on AI, Agile, and PMO Leadership 18:44

32 weeks ago18:44

18:44

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…

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S1.E21. Nataliia Zarudnieva on The Next Generation of PMO Leaders: How Gen Z is Shaping Project Management 22:43

33 weeks ago22:43

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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…

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S1.E20. Sheeba Hasnain on Leading the Digital Shift: The Strategic Evolution of PMOs 20:14

34 weeks ago20:14