Strategy, AI and the Rise of the Chief Project Officer
An exclusive interview with co-authors of The Evolution of the PMO:
The Rise of the Chief Project Officer – Part 5
(https://www.amazon.com/dp/B0DY5VY4KV)
INTERVIEW
by Aina Aliieva (Alive)
International Correspondent, PM World Journal
Toronto, Ontario, Canada
General Introduction
A year ago, we set out to redefine project management leadership through a collaborative writing challenge. Earlier this year, we were thrilled to announce the release of “The Evolution of the PMO: The Rise of the Chief Project Officer,” now an Amazon bestseller. This groundbreaking book brings together insights from 40 global authors, each offering unique perspectives on modern project management complexities.
This article follows part four published in the July PMWJ. It captures more of the essence of our year-long collaboration and invites you to engage with the dynamic conversations driving innovation in project management
Interviews
Introduction
The traditional PMO was once synonymous with governance and reporting. But in 2025, that definition is outdated. Organizations increasingly look to PMOs to safeguard value, align portfolios with strategy, and integrate disruptive technologies. The emergence of the Chief Project Officer (CPO) signals a recognition that project execution is no longer a back‑office concern — it is the driver of transformation.
This round of interviews showcases voices from North America, the Middle East, and Central Asia, each offering practical insights on how PMOs can meet the demands of a fast‑changing world. Their stories highlight not only models and tools but also the mindsets needed to thrive in the future economy.
Here, we bring together insights from Farahana Jobanputra, Abdelhalim Hafed, Anara Asylbekova, Saad A. AlShayiah, and Mohammad Ali Shalan. Collectively, they reveal how PMOs are redefining leadership, adopting artificial intelligence, and elevating their role to the executive table. Note that backgrounds of the interviewees can be found at the end of this set of interviews.
Updated and Expanded Interviews
Aina: Farahana, in your writing and talks, you highlight the debate between centralized and federated PMOs. How should leaders decide which model fits best?
Farahana: It comes down to context. Centralized PMOs work well for organizations with early or mature practices where authority, training, and governance can roll up under one banner. They bring consistency, cost efficiency, and streamlined execution.
On the other hand, federated models shine in large, complex enterprises where specialized skill sets, and rapid adaptability are needed. In fact, I often see hybrid models — an Enterprise PMO holding minimum standards, with federated PMOs empowered to tailor approaches to their business lines.
The real question is not “which model is right” but rather “which model aligns with our maturity, complexity, and strategic goals.” What I remind executives is that the choice isn’t binary. The strongest organizations know when to tighten governance and when to allow flexibility. A centralized model might deliver reliability in compliance, while federated PMOs inject speed and responsiveness into fast‑moving business lines.
Ultimately, leaders should not ask, “Which model will control the organization better?” but instead, “Which model will enable the organization to deliver value consistently and strategically?” That shift in perspective makes all the difference.
Aina: Many still see PMOs as administrative overhead. What strategies can leaders use to shift perceptions?
More…
To read entire interview, click here
Aliieva, A. (2025). Redefining the PMO: Strategy, AI and the Rise of the Chief Project Officer. An exclusive interview with co-authors of The Evolution of the PMO: The Rise of the Chief Project Officer – Part 5; PM World Journal, Vol. XIV, Issue VIII, August. Available online at: https://pmworldjournal.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/08/pmwj155-Aug2025-Aliieva-Redefining-the-PMO-Interviews-Part-5.pdf
About the Interviewer
Aina Aliieva
Toronto, Ontario, Canada
Aina Aliieva (Alive) is an experienced Agile Coach and a Business Consultant with 20 years of experience in different industries, from hospitality and tourism to banking and engineering, a Founder & CEO at Bee Agile and a CEO & VP of Marketing at The PMO Strategy and Execution Hub.
She is a keynote speaker on Agile, Project Management, Negotiation, People Management, and Soft Skills topics. She was a guest instructor at NASA in 2022 & 2023 with topics on Conflict Resolution & Negotiation and Facilitation Techniques.
Her book, “It Starts with YOU. 40 Letters to My Younger Self on How to Get Going in Your Career,” hit the #1 position in the #jobhunting category on Amazon and is featured in a Forbes Councils Executive Library.
She also contributed to the books “Mastering Solution Delivery: Practical Insights and Lessons from Thought Leaders in a Post-Pandemic Era”, “Green PMO: Sustainability through Project Management Lens” and “Agile Coaching and Transformation: The Journey to Enterprise Agility”.
Aina was also a Finalist in the Immigrant Entrepreneur of the Year category in 2021 by the Canadian SME National Business Award
She can be contacted at https://www.linkedin.com/in/aina-aliieva/
To view previous interviews and articles by Aina, visit her author showcase in the PM World Library at https://pmworldlibrary.net/authors/aina-aliieva/
