December PM Mixer: Year End Roundtable Rewind

lorenaflorian0
Dec 12
3 min read

The December PM Mixer was an engaging close to the year, bringing together project management professionals for an evening of reflection and shared learning. Designed as an interactive experience, the event encouraged attendees to rotate through themed discussion tables hosted by some of our past panelists and keynote speakers.

Leading Through Complexity: Coaching and Strategy for Project Managers

The discussion led by Tim Collins explored a question that resonates deeply with today’s project leaders: What’s harder for project managers—managing complexity in projects or managing complexity in people? The conversation revealed that complexity is not the same as being complicated. Unlike complicated tasks that can ultimately be broken down into its parts, complex projects involve unpredictable outcomes and intricate interdependencies that demand adaptive leadership. Tim emphasised that trust is the cornerstone of navigating this complexity—trust within teams, trust in leadership, and trust in the organisation itself.

Participants agreed that building this trust requires transparency and a shared sense of purpose. Expectations are set by establishing ways of working and committing to spend time team building together. Leaders who can adapt their style to suit diverse cultures and team dynamics are better equipped to foster collaboration and clarity. It’s not just about communication effectively but listening actively to hear what others are truly saying.

Emotional intelligence also emerged as a critical skill, with many noting that while logic can persuade, empathy and active listening often achieve deeper engagement. Ultimately, a shared vision acts as the North Star, guiding teams through uncertainty towards successful outcomes.

Bridging Projects and Business Strategy

Vicky Bartolacci’s table tackled a familiar challenge: How often do project managers feel they’re speaking a different language from the business—and what would it take to bridge that gap? The discussion highlighted that misalignment often stems from biases, differing levels of knowledge, and the late involvement of project managers in strategic conversations. When project managers are not engaged early, tasks risk becoming disconnected from organisational goals, creating friction and inefficiencies.

The group explored practical ways to overcome these barriers, starting with clarity of roles and responsibilities and a strong understanding of the “why” behind every task. Education and shared terminology were seen as essential tools for reducing language gaps between delivery teams and business stakeholders. Executive sponsorship also emerged as a game-changer, with leadership advocacy helping to align priorities and secure the resources needed for success. In the end, bridging the gap is less about process and more about people—how we communicate across the organisation and externally.

The Future of Project Management Credentials and Standards

Marc Denis led a forward-looking conversation on the evolving role of certifications and continuous professional development in shaping project management careers. Certifications remain a vital way for professionals to demonstrate currency and credibility, particularly as project language changes over time and between countries. Attendees noted that while credentials validate knowledge, experience cannot be overlooked. In fact, the interplay between experience and certification is becoming increasingly important, with many professionals using certifications to validate their experience.

The discussion also touched on differentiation in a competitive market. With master's degrees becoming commonplace, certifications offer a unique point of distinction and a structured pathway for ongoing learning. Marc emphasised that maintaining up-to-date credentials is not just about compliance—it’s about signalling adaptability and commitment to excellence in a profession defined by change.

As we wrap up 2025, the December PM Mixer was a fitting reminder of the value these events bring to our community. Throughout the year, our mixers have provided a space for candid conversations, shared insights, and professional growth—connecting practitioners across industries and experience levels. The contributions of our facilitators and attendees have made these sessions a cornerstone of learning and collaboration, and we are excited to continue this tradition in 2026.