Episode description

📢 “Surround yourself with smarter people than you. As a project or programme manager, you are the conductor, not the orchestrator.” 

In this episode, Richard Pharro, CEO of APMG International, speaks to Ross Bowyer, a highly experienced project manager who has overseen strategic development activities, capability development, and the overarching development of people.

Ross currently manages projects within the Department of Conservation in New Zealand. In this episode, we not only learn about Ross’ managerial experience, but also about the wildlife unique to New Zealand, as well as his personal philosophy regarding his work in conservation. Ross explains “benefit to the community or species will always be prioritized,” with particular consideration for endangered species.

Ross begins by talking us through his favourite investment in the PPM sector of New Zealand – Project Predator Free 2050. Predator Free 2050 operates with the purpose of safeguarding New Zealand’s native species from extinction, allowing them to thrive by eradicating threat.

In the same vein, we learn how Ross manages to build sustainability, like the example above, into commercial business cases, emphasising the importance of “increased engagement” and focusing on the “qualitative not the quantitative.” We also learn why Ross considers project and programme adoption to be an “investment” as opposed to an expenditure, and how this perspective can reap successful business outcomes. 

Ross further offers his expertise regarding what it is that makes a successful leader, how to manage people effectively, and crucially, the three things he wishes he knew when he was first starting out in his career.

Listen in to gain some invaluable tips from our leading expert of the week. 

🔗 Connect with Ross: linkedin.com/in/ross-bowyer-mapm-06896619
📝 Find out more about how a Project/Programme Management certification can help you advance your career: apmg-international.com/product/agilepm and apmg-international.com/product/agilepgm
📝 Find out more about APMG certifications: apmg-international.com/services/certifications-solutions