Path To Power: the Executive Suite is No Longer Off-limits to Project Managers

  PM Network  

Project managers have long been saddled with an image of detail-obsessed techies who can’t envision the big picture. But as more companies see the profession improving their bottom line, highperforming project managers are finally gaining power, influence and that longelusive entrée to the executive suite. This is not to say it’s always a simple or straightforward process, but those talented—and ambitious—project managers who make the right moves at the right time just might make it to the very upper echelons.

Robert Miklos is one of those fortunate few.

“The opportunities at this level are few and far between,” says Mr. Miklos, PMP, director of the project management office at Idaho National Laboratory (INL), Idaho Falls, Idaho, USA. Managed by Battelle Energy Alliance, the INL is the Department of Energy’s lead laboratory for nuclear reactor technology.

“To advance to an executive level, there are critical skills you need, including outstanding communication, vision and exceptional leadership,” he says. “Leading the organization and the management of projects means you also need to stay current with project management practice across every industry.”

Over his career, Mr. Miklos says he has always strived to do something different in project management—and to be recognized for …

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