Innovate to Elevate: Pioneering Project Management Growth with Christine Aykac
In an era where technological advancements and innovative methodologies are disrupting traditional project management landscapes, this intensive session is designed to illuminate the pivotal role of invention in reshaping project management for unmatched growth and transformational outcomes. This session will discuss what innovation in project management entails, break down the innovation concept and present tactical strategies that project managers across industries can employ to foster an innovative mindset. The emphasis will be on multifaceted benefits, ranging from enhanced operational efficiency to substantial cost reductions and beyond.
Attendees will leave with practical strategies, deep insights, and the motivation to infuse their projects with innovative practices. The session underscores that innovation transcends industry boundaries and is the universal catalyst for project success.
Chief Project Officer - Finally a Seat at the Table with Jeff Mandhart, MOL, PMP®, DASSM®, SAFe® SPC, CSM®, SFC™
This presentation will identify and define the role of a Chief Project Officer (CPO) and explain how it differs from other executives, like the Chief Financial Officer (CFO) or Chief Operating Officer (COO). We will also discuss the importance of having a single accountable leader for project success and outline steps for a CPO to excel in this role.
Our presenters:
Christine Aykac is a dynamic, engaging problem solver and change agent who brings realism, openness, and enthusiasm to practitioners globally. She has over 25 years of experience managing programs and providing assistance in utilizing technologies and knowledge assets. Christine’s experience enables her to utilize the best suitable methodology to ensure the teams’ success. Her objective is to spark positive change in the business world through thought-provoking dialog and interaction through her training materials, books, blogs, speaking and consulting engagements.

Jeff Manhardt, MOL, PMP®, DASSM®, SAFe® SPC, CSM®, SFC™ is from Buffalo, N.Y., and recently promoted from Director of Project Management to Senior Director, 3rd Party AI & Citizen Development for Compass Group - a global food service company based in North Carolina with a curiosity for what is possible and over 18 years of success achieving project, program & Portfolio management objectives while utilizing situational leadership to manage international teams. He has led 3 PMOs, dozens of projects & programs and is an acquisition specialist.
Jeff’s award-winning, results-oriented, people-driven leadership approach has culminated with projects, programs & portfolios delivering real business value. Jeff received his Master of Arts in Organizational Leadership (MOL) from Medaille University, is a 2013 LIMC graduate, frequent conference speaker, and former adjunct professor at the University of Buffalo, Canisius College, Daemen College & Medaille
University.
Date / Time of Event
Thursday, March 20th, 1:00 PM/CT 2:00 PM ET; Nashville breakout room begins at 12:30 PM CT.
Registration deadline
Wednesday, March 19th at 1:00 PM CT
Location of Event
Zoom Presentation
Cancellation Deadline/Refund Policy
There are no cancellations or refunds for this program. If you can't join us live, complete learning on your own schedule by listening to the recording and self-reporting your PDU.
PDU Category / Hours
Two (.5) PDUs are provided with this program. PDU information is shared by ProjectBites and self-reported by individual participants.