It takes more than just bold vision, good planning and diligent execution to see a project to fruition. When it comes to major project management, clearly defining the roles between management and leadership can mean the difference between success and failure.
The lifeblood of any major project, managers undertake specific tasks and oversee parameters like timelines and budgets to ensure processes are on track. This includes facilitating efficient operations to meet project objectives by providing a purpose and direction that employees can trust.
Leaders on the other hand, are the thread that bind a project together — inspiring teams, ensuring alignment in goals and possessing the courage to implement and navigate change. They provide clarity of vision and ideas, empowering and guiding the team to realise their full potential.
One thing is certain — both management and leadership need to work in sync. Strong leadership at the top can spur collaboration, communication, accountability and help assert the right level of authority needed for managers to ensure smooth execution of goals.
In this report, we examine the intrinsic relationship between both roles by defining the key characteristics they play in ensuring project management success. Key topics include:
Leading major projects
Managing large projects are almost similar to running a major organisation. They have a clear set of goals, well-defined culture, cost considerations and operating frameworks aimed at bringing a specific vision to life. Ensuring project success means having leaders with specialised knowledge and experience to ensure success at every stage.
Cultivating leaders at all levels
Creating a culture of leadership across the organisation means fostering ownership at every level — regardless of job scope. Putting in place mechanisms to help leaders share thier skills and experiences can accelerate an organisation's vision and goals.
Creating a culture that leads
Transparency, accountability, and effective communication lie at the heart of strong leadership. Successful leaders are able to work with both internal and external stakeholders to ensure alignment of vision even in the face of evolving needs and demands.
Managing organisational change
Managing a major project requires a clear and defined leadership approach at every stage. From adapting to various project pressures to ensuring a smooth transition from one stage to another, leaders need to put in place strategic action plans and processes to keep the team on track in achieving success.
Breaking down silos
Strong communication is the bedrock of any successful project. A clear communication line beween leaders and managers ensures that team members are aligned on project deliverables and understand exactly what’s expected of them. That includes internal communication between project teams and boards as well as with external contractors, investors and business partners.
For more insights on effective leadership and management, download our guide.
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