#Program Management

[nando161mando]

IT Job requires 45 years of IT Program Management experience.

[themanagementatheneum]

Blog No. 57 - Celebrating Republic Day: Lessons in Leadership and Governance from India’s Constitution

Welcome to The Management Atheneum, Blog No. 57!

Happy Republic Day 🇮🇳

Today, I reflect on the lessons in leadership and governance from India’s Constitution in my latest blog post, which takes a slightly different approach than my usual content.

I’d love to hear your thoughts as well, so please share your insights in the comments!

[juh-wasnt-deactivated19691231]

i forget if i’ve posted about this before. stop me

blameless postmortem culture has a lot to offer, but other people explain that plenty. here’s the catch: it only works if these two conditions are met:

1. everyone involved is doing their earnest best (or at least, meeting the effort expectations agreed in the team)

2. everyone involved is working toward the same set of goals

if either of these conditions is not met, you have a problem. if the root cause boils down to “jimmy didn’t want to deal with it so he didn’t”, unfortunately that’s a people problem. you may be able to engineer it a little bit, but you can never really prevent it.

if the root cause is “someone or some team was working toward a different goal from the rest of us”, that’s either a communication problem (benign) or a people problem (malicious). in the benign case you can engineer better communication models and depend on people Doing Their Best to prevent the problem. in the malicious case, you can attempt to limit the impact of a trusted adversary…but generally at great cost to productivity, which really means the adversary wins anyways.

now that i’m looking at it, this really condenses down to just one idea, since you could say that doing your best toward a counterproductive goal on purpose is simply not doing your best in context. but yeah. if your RCA reaches “so and so chose to do y instead of x” and the next “why” comes up with “because they don’t care about the success of the project”, you really can’t engineer that away.

[project-management-advisory-help]

Neurodiversity And Project Management Advisory | Kronos Group

A project team or project manager with lower emotional intelligence fosters behaviours that cause disharmony within the team. They may also lack tactful communication skills, and may fail to adapt quickly to changes in the environment due to their lack of perception.

Project managers or teams with higher emotional intelligence, on the other hand, fostered more productive and positive behaviours that were rooted in their interpersonal skills, ability to motivate and empathise with fellow team members, and perform better under pressure and increased stress. 

How does project management advisory foster emotional intelligence?

While emotional intelligence may be a skill that certain team members are more predisposed to than others, the individuals themselves are only one part in the process of creating a neurodiverse workplace that can benefit fully from the broad range of skills their team members bring to the table.

Organisations must have a framework and environment in place to allow these individuals to shine and take advantage of their skills and the opportunities they bring. 

The most sustainable way to achieve this is to ensure that the structure upon which your critical functions, including project management, are based are optimised. 

Optimisation ensures that your project management function is running as smoothly as possible while adhering to the most up-to-date industry best practices and technologies available on the market. 

Having this optimised and reliable base for your function creates room for higher value addition in the form of training programmes and transformation that will allow your teams to value characteristics such as emotional intelligence and empathetic communication. Characteristics that will drive future project success. 

Because of the innovative prowess of projects, and the teams that are assembled to complete them, embracing diverse thoughts and approaches will also enhance the innovative capability of your teams. An advantage that will drive the success of your projects even further. 

Project management advisory can help your company benefit from customised optimisation strategies geared towards your specific project management goals. This automatically sets the scene for sustainable project success.

The value of project management advisory is that these professionals are able to bring in a new perspective to your company. Their professional experience and insight into the challenges your project management function may face allow them to facilitate not just functional transformation but a transformation in corporate culture. 

Leverage project management advisory for contemporary business success

Embracing the changes wrought by revolutionary waves sweeping the industry is essential for any business looking to succeed in the current market.  Project management advisory and the project management transformation it helps create is an essential part of this transition.

[onlinecoursesbylearnkarts]

Why PgMP Certified Professionals Earn More Than Their Peers?

Companies need more than just skilled project managers in today's fast-paced project world. They also need program managers with a lot of experience who can handle big projects with many teams, deadlines, and goals. Professionals who are PgMP-certified stand out in this way, which is why they often get paid more than their peers who aren't qualified.

The Project Management Institute (PMI) gives out the Program Management Professional (PgMP) title, one of the most prestigious and challenging certifications in project management. It's made for professionals with a lot of experience in charge of several related projects that align with the company's strategic goals.

Program managers have to think about the big picture, not just one or two deliverables, as standard project managers do. They have to figure out how to handle dependencies and large-scale risks and ensure that all projects align with the overall strategy.

Value of PgMP-Certified Professionals in the Real World

The Earning Power: Project Management Salary Survey from PMI shows that workers with the PgMP certification make a lot more than their peers who are not certified. The average salary increase is as high as 33% in places like North America. This difference is because managing programs is more complex and requires more direction than managing individual projects.

Take the example of an IT program manager at a Fortune 500 company who is in charge of turning several areas into digital ones. For these kinds of projects to succeed, you must be very good at coordinating, managing stakeholders, and changing strategy across units. Getting PgMP training by Learnkarts proves that a person knows what they're doing and can lead others at this level, which makes them useful in high-stakes situations.

Why Do Companies Have to Pay More?

Companies are ready to pay more for professionals with the PgMP certification because the job has a direct effect on how well the business does.

Better resource allocation, higher ROI, and easier delivery of enterprise-wide goals are all signs of good program management. Employers know that people who have training in program management can handle not only tasks but also the complicated issues that come up between them, making sure that strategy is put into action.

In addition, the PgMP course is very challenging. You will need to have extensive experience in program and project management in order to pass the rigorous multiple-choice exam and expert panel evaluation. This ensures that certification is granted solely to highly experienced professionals who have demonstrated strong leadership abilities.

Widespread Interest

In particular, certified PgMP specialists are in high demand in the construction, healthcare, defense, information technology, and financial sectors. These companies often have large, complex projects that call for a centralized management structure with adaptable leadership. According to LinkedIn and PMI employment forums, the number of job ads requiring PgMP certification has steadily increased over the last five years. Its high value in the global job market is demonstrated by this.

The Chance to Learn and Grow

Business people who want to get this certification often use structured learning tracks like the Coursera PgMP course. There are five areas of performance that this full guide helps students get good at: program plan alignment, lifecycle management, benefits management, stakeholder involvement, and governance. It's not easy, but the long-term perks, like the chance to make more money, be seen as a leader, and get key roles, make it well worth it.

That being said

Getting your PgMP certification isn't just a piece of paper; it will change your job.

Now more than ever, cross-functional leadership and strategic alignment are crucial. People who are PgMP-certified are in an extraordinary situation to lead and achieve in this world.

Getting trained in PgMP is quickly becoming the best way for top project managers to improve their jobs. This is because people worldwide want it, and studies have shown that it can help people make more money.

[celoxisppm]

Celoxis: The Best Project Management Software for Businesses

Why Celoxis Stands Out as the Best Project Management Software

Managing projects effectively requires a robust solution that offers comprehensive project tracking tools, seamless collaboration, and real-time insights. Celoxis is recognized as one of the best project management software options, providing an all-in-one platform to streamline workflows, optimize resource allocation, and ensure project success.

Key Features of Celoxis Project Management Software

✔ Advanced Gantt Chart – Visualize project timelines, dependencies, and progress. ✔ Integrated Project Tracking Software – Monitor tasks, milestones, and KPIs in real time. ✔ Resource Management – Allocate workloads efficiently and prevent team burnout. ✔ Workflow Automation – Automate approvals, notifications, and repetitive tasks. ✔ Customizable Dashboards & Reports – Gain actionable insights with dynamic reporting. ✔ Budget & Expense Tracking – Keep financials under control and track profitability. ✔ Collaboration & Communication Tools – Enhance teamwork with built-in discussions and file sharing. ✔ PMO Software Capabilities – Align projects with business goals using a centralized project management office approach.

How Celoxis Helps Businesses Succeed

Celoxis is designed for businesses that require an end-to-end project management solution with flexibility, scalability, and powerful analytics. Whether managing a single project or an entire portfolio, Celoxis enables teams to work smarter, meet deadlines, and stay within budget.

Conclusion

For organizations seeking the best project management software, Celoxis offers a feature-rich, intuitive, and highly customizable solution. From Gantt charts to program management software capabilities, it is the ultimate tool for driving efficiency and achieving project success.

[procurement-transformation]

Adding value to the construction industry by transforming procurement

At Kronos Group, we give you expert-led insights to elevate the efficiency and success of your construction business by helping you restructure your procurement framework.

A study conducted by the Chartered Institute of Building (CIOB) revealed that more than 87% of executives at leading construction companies singled out an efficient procurement function as the primary driver for success.

These figures are not surprising given that the construction industry has become increasingly dependent on sourcing quality materials on time to deliver higher quality and efficiency in all its projects.

While there have been many concerted efforts from construction companies and raw material suppliers to streamline the procurement function, the implementation of these efforts has left a lot to desire, with many construction companies not experiencing the gains they anticipated. 

As the world shifts away from traditional methods of doing business, construction companies must account for the needs of the modern landscape to make their procurement function truly efficient. Today, this comes down to transforming procurement.

So, what does it take for businesses to start reshaping procurement?

The key is continuous improvement. This ensures that procurement is optimised for greater efficiency. As it happens, transforming procurement is the best way to launch a long-term system of adding higher value to business processes.

Our team of professionals at Kronos Group adds value to your critical business functions through targeted, practical, and efficient strategies to reshape procurement.

We ensure that transforming the procurement function takes every single aspect of your operations and objectives into consideration to deliver lasting, sustainable value and transformation.

[themanagementatheneum]

The Gnosis Series - Episode 20 - I nearly gave up on my career in insurance. Here’s why I didn’t.

Welcome to the Episode 20 of “The Gnosis Series” !! If you are new to my Gnosis series, here’s some background – Gnosis is a Greek word for Knowledge. This series includes short articles on Leadership, Management, Project Management and many more to enlighten / motivate my readers. A while back, I reached a breaking point. The headlines were daunting rising claims, market instability, and a…

[procurement-strategy-regulations]

Is your procurement strategy ready for upcoming EU regulations?

The procurement landscape is evolving, with stricter regulations reshaping business operations. The regulatory shift: What is changing? Businesses must now prioritise transparency, ESG reporting, and digital transformation. What are the biggest challenges in procurement management? Companies face supply chain risks, compliance burdens, and the struggle to balance costs with regulatory demands. How to stay ahead of compliance through a procurement strategy? Regular audits, supplier collaboration, and digital solutions are key. What is the business case for compliance? Beyond avoiding penalties, compliance strengthens supplier relationships, enhances sustainability credentials, and builds stakeholder trust—turning regulation into a competitive advantage.

The procurement landscape in the EU is continuously evolving, with stricter regulations ensuring fairness, transparency, and accountability. For organisations operating in both public and utility sectors, aligning with key directives—Directive 2014/24/EU and Directive 2014/25/EU—is not just a legal requirement but a critical component of a robust procurement strategy.

Failure to comply could lead to penalties, legal disputes, and reputational damage. As procurement professionals navigate these complex regulations, integrating compliance into their procurement management strategy is essential to mitigating risks and maintaining operational efficiency.

The regulatory shift: What is changing?

The European Commission is reshaping procurement to be more strategic, sustainable, and transparent. With six key priorities guiding this transformation, organisations must adapt to stay compliant and competitive:

Wider adoption of innovative, green, and social procurement – Encouraging procurement practices that align with environmental, social, and governance (ESG) goals.

Professionalising public buyers – Equipping procurement professionals with the skills and tools to make informed, strategic decisions.

Improving market access – Ensuring SMEs and cross-border suppliers have equal opportunities to compete.

Increasing transparency, integrity, and data-driven decision-making – Strengthening oversight and accountability in procurement processes.

Accelerating digital transformation – Streamlining procurement through e-procurement and digital tools.

Enhancing collaborative procurement – Encouraging joint purchasing efforts to drive efficiency and cost savings.

Beyond these priorities, businesses must also navigate evolving regulatory requirements such as:

ESG reporting: Stricter sustainability and corporate responsibility disclosures affecting procurement decisions.

Supply chain due diligence: Increased scrutiny on ethical sourcing, human rights, and environmental impact within supply chains.

These changes are not just policy updates—they redefine how organisations approach and view procurement management. Neglecting regulatory compliance could lead to severe financial penalties, contract loss, and reputational damage. More importantly, companies that fail to adapt risk falling behind in an increasingly competitive and regulated market.

By aligning procurement strategies with these evolving regulations, businesses can turn compliance into an opportunity—driving innovation, sustainability, and long-term success.

What are the biggest challenges in procurement management?

As procurement evolves, businesses face mounting pressures to comply with regulations while maintaining efficiency and cost-effectiveness. However, many struggle with fundamental challenges that can put them at risk.

Lack of supply chain resilience

With disruptions becoming the norm, resilience is critical—but many organisations are unprepared. A recent survey found that only 57% of companies have a supply chain risk mitigation plan, leaving them vulnerable to geopolitical shifts, climate events, and supplier failures.

For example, the global semiconductor shortage exposed the fragility of supply chains, halting production for industries from automotive to consumer electronics.

Supplier transparency and compliance risks

Ensuring suppliers adhere to ethical and regulatory standards is a growing challenge. A survey revealed that 60% of procurement leaders see a lack of transparency as a major risk. With ESG regulations and supply chain due diligence laws tightening, companies must have full visibility into their suppliers’ practices—or face penalties.

The EU’s Corporate Sustainability Due Diligence Directive (CSDDD) requires companies to assess human rights and environmental risks across their supply chains, with non-compliance leading to fines or legal action.

Compliance tracking and reporting burdens

Regulatory compliance demands extensive tracking and reporting, but many organisations lack the necessary systems. From ESG disclosures to procurement data management, the complexity of meeting multiple regulatory frameworks can overwhelm procurement teams.

For example, under the EU Taxonomy Regulation, businesses must classify their economic activities based on sustainability criteria, adding layers of reporting complexity.

Balancing cost pressures with regulatory demands

Regulatory compliance often requires investments in sustainable sourcing, ethical labour practices, and digital transformation. Yet, procurement teams must balance these costs against budget constraints and competitive pricing pressures.

For example, businesses in energy-intensive industries face rising costs due to carbon reduction requirements while still needing to maintain profitability and competitive pricing. 

The growing complexity of procurement means businesses must rethink their strategies. Investing in data-driven decision-making, supplier risk management, and digital transformation will be key to overcoming these challenges while staying ahead of evolving regulations.

What is the business case for compliance?

Compliance is often seen as a regulatory burden, but in reality, it is a strategic advantage. With the average cost of a supply chain disruption reaching $310,000, the financial risks of non-compliance are too significant to ignore.

Elevate your procurement strategy with Kronos Group

Elevate your procurement management strategy with procurement consulting from Kronos Group. We help businesses optimise costs, enhance supplier relationships, and drive long-term value through tailored solutions. With industry expertise backed by innovative strategies to improve efficiency and ensure sustainable growth. Whether you need support with sourcing, contract management, or process optimisation, we provide the insights and tools to strengthen your procurement function. Partner with Kronos Group and unlock the full potential of your procurement operations.

[hotzimbabwejobs]

Country Director Opportunity at Plan International in Sudan - February 2025

Plan International is seeking an exceptional and experienced leader to serve as their Country Director in Sudan. This is a high-impact role with the opportunity to lead transformative change and champion girls’ rights.   About Plan International: Plan International is a global development and humanitarian organization dedicated to advancing children’s rights and equality for girls. They work in…

[rajuradhakrishnan]

Blog No. 56 - Unlock Your Potential with Our Exciting New Services!

We are thrilled to announce the launch of our brand-new Services page, designed specifically to cater to your needs and help you achieve your goals! At The Management Atheneum, we understand that navigating the complexities of personal and professional growth can be challenging. That’s why we’ve curated a range of services tailored to empower you on your journey. Our Services page features…

[supply-chain-risk-analysis]

Why is a supply chain risk analysis crucial for procurement excellence?

Geopolitical unrest remains the top concern for supply chains, affecting 58% of business leaders, followed closely by shortages in raw materials at 44%. These disruptions have led to significant challenges for companies, from delayed shipments to increased costs. In fact, 52% of business leaders believe they could improve their supply chains to better handle such risks.

Supply chain risk analysis plays a critical role in achieving procurement excellence. By identifying vulnerabilities and proactively addressing them, businesses can enhance resilience, reduce operational costs, and optimise relationships with suppliers, ultimately strengthening their competitive edge in an unpredictable world.

Is there an evolving role of risk analysis in modern procurement?

Procurement has undergone significant changes in recent years, driven by globalisation, heightened supply chain complexity, and the swift integration of new technologies. These developments have resulted in a highly interconnected and unpredictable environment, where disruptions—stemming from geopolitical tensions to natural disasters—can swiftly affect supply chains with unprecedented consequences. Traditional risk management strategies, which typically concentrate on addressing immediate threats, are inadequate in this evolving context.

In response to supply shortages and erratic demand, approximately 64% of companies now maintain extra inventory as a precautionary measure, underscoring the increasing necessity for flexible and innovative risk management strategies.

To succeed in the current landscape, procurement leaders are shifting from a reactive to a proactive approach to risk management. This transition entails utilising predictive analytics, real-time data, and scenario planning to foresee potential disruptions before they materialise. By recognising vulnerabilities early and incorporating resilience into supply chain strategies, organisations can enhance their pursuit of procurement excellence.

The need for this transformation is urgent: only 2% of leaders express confidence in achieving 80–100% of their strategic goals. Embracing a proactive stance on risk analysis is not merely advantageous; it is crucial for navigating uncertainty, minimising costs, and strengthening supplier relationships.

How does risk analysis drive procurement excellence? 

Consider the implications of relying entirely on a single supplier for a vital product component, only to encounter an unforeseen disruption that halts production, escalates expenses, and diminishes customer satisfaction. This situation has regrettably become increasingly common for companies operating within the current volatile supply chain environment.

Factors such as natural disasters and geopolitical tensions have intensified the risks associated with procurement, highlighting the inadequacy of traditional, reactive strategies. To maintain a competitive edge, organisations must adopt a proactive approach—one that leverages risk analysis to foresee potential challenges, minimise costs, and foster more robust relationships with suppliers.

[project-planning-consultants]

How project planning consultants improve and impact project success rates

Project planning consultants improve and impact project success rates by aligning projects with organisational goals through strategic frameworks and advanced methodologies. They excel in risk management, resource optimisation, and leveraging data-driven decision-making and predictive analytics to address challenges proactively. 

By integrating change management processes and enhancing stakeholder engagement, consultants minimise resistance and streamline execution. Their focus on ROI ensures that projects deliver significant financial benefits and align with broader strategic objectives. Ultimately, how project planning consultants improve and impact project success rates through their comprehensive approach to planning, ensuring both immediate and sustainable success.

Project planning consultants emphasise ROI by developing processes and methodologies that ensure initiatives deliver significant financial benefits. With 14% of organisations focusing on ROI, consultants build project management maturity models and frameworks that integrate ROI assessment into the planning phase. 

This approach helps organisations prioritise projects based on their potential ROI, ensuring alignment with strategic goals and maximising financial impact. By embedding ROI considerations into their planning, consultants support sustainable success and foster long-term project management capabilities.

Get in touch with Kronos Group to improve project success rates

Engage with Kronos Group for professional project management consulting and improve the success rates of your projects. With a strong emphasis on enhancing ROI, we excel in creating and implementing advanced project management methodologies that are in harmony with your strategic objectives. 

Get in touch today to elevate your project management capabilities and drive significant, measurable results for your organisation.

[pmotool]

Break Down Silos, Build Success: Celoxis for Cross-Functional Project Management

Cross-functional teams are the engine of innovation, bringing diverse skills and perspectives to tackle complex projects. However, this very diversity can breed challenges: communication breakdowns, siloed data, and resource bottlenecks can derail even the most promising initiatives. The solution? Project management software designed for seamless collaboration, and Celoxis stands out as a powerful platform to empower your cross-functional teams.