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In an increasingly complex and interconnected world, the role of the Project Manager is rapidly evolving, going far beyond mere planning and operational management of projects. To face today’s challenges and anticipate tomorrow’s, the Project Manager must develop a range of advanced skills, from emotional intelligence to creativity, from decision-making ability to strategic vision. These intelligences, when harmoniously integrated, enable the transformation of every project into a platform for growth, innovation, and positive change.
Emotional intelligence, with its ability to create authentic connections and motivate the team, forms the foundation of human and inclusive leadership. But alone, it is not enough. It must be integrated with sharp strategic intelligence, capable of linking the team’s daily activities to the long-term goals of the organization. The rapid technological evolution also makes technological intelligence essential, enabling the use of advanced tools such as artificial intelligence and the Internet of Things to optimize processes and resources.
At the same time, social and cultural intelligence proves crucial in managing global and diverse teams, while decision-making intelligence allows quick and informed choices even in conditions of uncertainty. In a constantly transforming context, adaptive intelligence becomes an indispensable tool for facing sudden changes and turning them into opportunities. Finally, creative and ethical intelligence complete the profile of the modern leader: the first finds innovative solutions to the most complex problems, while the second ensures that every decision is guided by a strong sense of responsibility and sustainability.
Today’s Project Manager is no longer just an executor, but a leader of change, capable of harmonizing emotions, strategies, and innovations to generate lasting value. This new approach to project management not only meets the needs of an ever-evolving world but also paves the way for a more just, sustainable, and collaborative future.
Emotional intelligence is a fundamental pillar in project management, especially in an increasingly complex and dynamic work environment. It represents the ability to recognize, understand, and manage one’s emotions and those of others and is essential for creating a positive and stimulating work environment. A Project Manager with high emotional intelligence can connect with their team, establishing a climate of trust and collaboration that is crucial for the project’s success.
Being in tune with people’s emotions does not only mean being empathetic, but also knowing how to read between the lines, picking up non-verbal cues and moods that may affect the team’s performance. Active listening is a key component: dedicating genuine attention to the opinions and needs of team members helps build strong relationships based on respect and mutual understanding. This attention not only strengthens individual motivation but also fosters a sense of collective belonging, where each person feels valued and an integral part of the project’s success.
Antonio Bassi Is an Electronic Engineer by training, certified Project Management Professional (PMP), member of the Steering Committee of the Project Management Institute – Northern-Italy Chapter (PMI-NIC) from 2004 to 2008, Lecturer in Project Management in academic settings, President of the Project Management Association (APM-Ticino), author of numerous books and articles on project management, former member of the UNI team for the definition of ISO21500 standards for Project Management, with 20 years of experience as Project/Program Manager on innovative projects across various market sectors. He can be contacted at antonio.bassi@supsi.ch
The intelligences of the Project Manager
The key to innovative leadership
ADVISORY
By Antonio Bassi
Lugano, Switzerland
In an increasingly complex and interconnected world, the role of the Project Manager is rapidly evolving, going far beyond mere planning and operational management of projects. To face today’s challenges and anticipate tomorrow’s, the Project Manager must develop a range of advanced skills, from emotional intelligence to creativity, from decision-making ability to strategic vision. These intelligences, when harmoniously integrated, enable the transformation of every project into a platform for growth, innovation, and positive change.
Emotional intelligence, with its ability to create authentic connections and motivate the team, forms the foundation of human and inclusive leadership. But alone, it is not enough. It must be integrated with sharp strategic intelligence, capable of linking the team’s daily activities to the long-term goals of the organization. The rapid technological evolution also makes technological intelligence essential, enabling the use of advanced tools such as artificial intelligence and the Internet of Things to optimize processes and resources.
At the same time, social and cultural intelligence proves crucial in managing global and diverse teams, while decision-making intelligence allows quick and informed choices even in conditions of uncertainty. In a constantly transforming context, adaptive intelligence becomes an indispensable tool for facing sudden changes and turning them into opportunities. Finally, creative and ethical intelligence complete the profile of the modern leader: the first finds innovative solutions to the most complex problems, while the second ensures that every decision is guided by a strong sense of responsibility and sustainability.
Today’s Project Manager is no longer just an executor, but a leader of change, capable of harmonizing emotions, strategies, and innovations to generate lasting value. This new approach to project management not only meets the needs of an ever-evolving world but also paves the way for a more just, sustainable, and collaborative future.
Emotional intelligence is a fundamental pillar in project management, especially in an increasingly complex and dynamic work environment. It represents the ability to recognize, understand, and manage one’s emotions and those of others and is essential for creating a positive and stimulating work environment. A Project Manager with high emotional intelligence can connect with their team, establishing a climate of trust and collaboration that is crucial for the project’s success.
Being in tune with people’s emotions does not only mean being empathetic, but also knowing how to read between the lines, picking up non-verbal cues and moods that may affect the team’s performance. Active listening is a key component: dedicating genuine attention to the opinions and needs of team members helps build strong relationships based on respect and mutual understanding. This attention not only strengthens individual motivation but also fosters a sense of collective belonging, where each person feels valued and an integral part of the project’s success.
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How to cite this work: Bassi, A. (2025). The intelligences of the Project Manager: the key to innovative leadership, advisory, PM World Journal, Vol. XIV, Issue II, February. Available online at https://pmworldlibrary.net/wp-content/uploads/2025/02/pmwj149-Feb2025-Bassi-the-intelligences-of-the-project-manager.pdf
About the Author
Antonio Bassi
Lugano, Switzerland
Antonio Bassi Is an Electronic Engineer by training, certified Project Management Professional (PMP), member of the Steering Committee of the Project Management Institute – Northern-Italy Chapter (PMI-NIC) from 2004 to 2008, Lecturer in Project Management in academic settings, President of the Project Management Association (APM-Ticino), author of numerous books and articles on project management, former member of the UNI team for the definition of ISO21500 standards for Project Management, with 20 years of experience as Project/Program Manager on innovative projects across various market sectors. He can be contacted at antonio.bassi@supsi.ch
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