Learn more about the role of PMO Coordinator!

Can you tell us a bit about your background and how you came to join our company?

Kris: I studied psychology at university, which might seem unrelated to IT, but it has given me a unique perspective on project management. Before joining FletcherTech, I worked in various PMO roles, which helped me develop a strong foundation in project coordination and governance. I transitioned to the corporate IT industry because I was excited about the innovative projects and inclusive culture.

Can you describe a typical day in your role?

Kris: My typical day involves a mix of Business-As-Usual (BAU) tasks and various initiatives aligned with our team goals. BAU activities include supporting governance for IT funding requests from businesses, collaborating with Portfolio Managers to refine project delivery guidelines, inducting new Project Managers, or answering general queries. However, I usually spend more time on PMO initiatives than on BAU tasks in my day. These initiatives often involve developing new processes, implementing tools to enhance efficiency, and promoting best practices across the organization.

Can you describe more about the initiatives that you are doing in the PMO Team?

Kris: Sure! For example, this year FletcherTech shared its AI policy for Fletcher Building. The PMO team has been developing governance structures and processes to ensure that this policy is embedded and applied across FletcherTech and group-wide. I also collaborate with the Communications Team to promote the new Fletcher Building AI portal and raise awareness about AI-related topics.

Another initiative I am involved in is piloting Microsoft 365 Copilot. We are exploring its value by testing several use cases to determine how Copilot can assist with various tasks and improve efficiency.

This year, the PMO team has refreshed the Workforce Planning process and reporting by leveraging ServiceNow and Microsoft PowerBI tools. We are actively working together to ensure workforce planning becomes a business-as-usual activity, helping all teams stay on track with their rolling 3-month forecast.

What do you like the most about your job?

Kris: I love the people and growth opportunities at FletcherTech. The team here is incredibly supportive and collaborative, which makes for a positive and motivating work environment. Learning from top professionals and working on cutting-edge IT projects keeps me at the forefront of technology.

Additionally, FletcherTech offers excellent learning and development opportunities. Our company invests in its employees’ growth through various training programs, workshops, and mentorship initiatives. This commitment to professional development has been instrumental in my career progression. I truly appreciate the developmental opportunities provided, as they have significantly enhanced my skills and confidence.

I also love the company’s inclusive culture and strong support for women. FletcherTech actively promotes diversity and inclusion, ensuring that everyone feels valued, respected, and recognized. Programs like the Women’s Mentorship initiative and Social Committee events that celebrate cultural diversity make me feel embraced and empowered.

Can you talk more about your learning and development experience here?

Kris: In the past two years, I’ve participated in two key professional development programs: “Building Future” and “Step Up.” These programs have been vital for my growth and provided excellent networking opportunities within Fletcher Building. This year, I’m receiving ongoing one-on-one coaching from a Senior Project Manager, allowing me to shadow an IT project and gain practical experience. Additionally, FletcherTech has given me access to Google Cloud training materials, I recently just completed an Introductory Generative AI Learning Path, and I’m on-going with more training classes. These experiences have significantly enhanced my soft skills, such as leadership, communication, and emotional intelligence, as well as my technical abilities.

What skills do you think are essential for success in your position?

Kris: As someone without an IT background, I believe the ability to learn quickly and stay resilient is important. Continuously acquiring new knowledge and skills is essential, along with keeping up with industry trends and market developments. Effective communication is also key to fostering successful collaboration.

What advice would you give to someone from a non-IT background looking to excel in this industry?

Kris: Embrace continuous learning and stay curious. Don’t be afraid to ask questions and seek mentorship from experienced colleagues. Building a strong foundation in project management principles and developing good communication skills will also be beneficial.

Can you share an example of a training or development program that has significantly impacted your career?

Kris: The “Step Up” program for frontline leaders has had a significant impact on my career. It provided me with essential leadership skills and strategies to effectively manage and motivate teams. Additionally, the program included an Emotional Intelligence assessment, which offered valuable feedback and insights into my decision-making processes and communication skills. This experience has been instrumental in my professional growth, equipping me with the tools needed to excel in my role.

What are your goals for the future within the company?

Kris: I aim to continue growing within FletcherTech, taking on more leadership responsibilities and contributing to larger, more complex initiatives and projects. I’m also keen to further explore the integration of AI in project management to drive efficiency and innovation.