Biggest Challenges Faced By A Project Director At A Global Logistics Provider
Tony, a Project Director, reframes challenges as "the work that needs to be done," identifying the most significant part of work as maintaining stakeholder satisfaction by understanding their diverse interests and using effective communication, even while acknowledging that "sometimes you have a stakeholder who you just cannot do no matter how you do it." Ultimately, Tony finds fulfillment in honing communication skills to keep stakeholders happy, contributing to a positive project environment and a sense of accomplishment.
Stakeholder Management, Communication Skills, Diplomacy, Project Management, Relationship Building
Advizer Information
Name
Job Title
Company
Undergrad
Grad Programs
Majors
Industries
Job Functions
Traits
Tony Anammah
Project Director
Global Logistics and In-Country Support Services Provider
University of Nigeria
Masters in Procurement, Logistics and Supply Chain Management, University of Salford Manchester, United Kingdom
Medical, Sciences & Related
Consulting & Related Professional Services, Manufacturing, Operations & Supply Chain
Operations and Project Management
Video Highlights
1. Managing diverse stakeholder interests is a critical aspect of the role, requiring the ability to understand and fulfill their different needs related to the project.
2. Effective communication and interpersonal skills are essential for gauging the mood of stakeholders and using the right words to maintain positive relationships.
3. Striving to ensure all stakeholders are satisfied with the project's progress and the professional's performance is a key focus, even when dealing with difficult individuals.
Transcript
Q6: Biggest challenge in your role.
I don't see challenges as challenges for the world, but as the work that needs to be done in that area. The biggest work I have to do is how I keep all the funders, strategic partners, and government officials I work with happy.
These individuals have different interests, and my role is to ensure we are fulfilling those interests regarding the project. Project management involves keeping various stakeholders happy, and this requires significant effort.
You need to know the right words to gauge the mood of the room during meetings. This keeps me on edge, but I love it because it means I'm developing my skills in maintaining positivity.
Sometimes, there's a stakeholder who is difficult to please, no matter what you do. However, in my current role, I can honestly say I can't recall any stakeholders I relate to who haven't been happy or acknowledged I'm doing a good job.
So, my biggest challenge – and I dislike using that word – is keeping everyone happy. Especially those who may be difficult to please. I believe everything else takes care of itself. I would say that is the most important, biggest aspect of my role.
