Insight to Impact: APM Theory in Action and Transforming Leadership

 

 

 

This event, held on 29 October 2025  was co-hosted by the Association For Project Management (APM) Scotland Network, Anturas Consulting, and JCI Edinburgh. They explored the fascinating contrasts between project management theory and its application in practice. Expect lively discussions, shared insights, and valuable strategies to bridge the gap for greater project success.

In today’s fast-paced and complex project environments, the ability to translate structured knowledge into real delivery impact is what sets effective professionals apart.

In this presentation, we explored how early to mid-career project professionals can move beyond theoretical understanding and actively build confidence, capability, and credibility in delivery roles.

The session focussed on bridging the gap between qualifications and influence, offering practical approaches to developing key competencies through reflection, action, and workplace application — using tools and frameworks like the APM Competency Framework to guide professional growth.

The first presentation was ideal for those seeking to grow their professional impact, develop their career trajectory, and move from competence to practical influence on real-world projects.

Additionally, APM Fellow Gordon MacKay talked about the importance and benefits of evolving from command-and-control project management to leadership that engages and empowers.

The session also explored the mental health and wellbeing impacts of these different leadership styles, promoting adult-adult over parent-child relationship building for effective stakeholder engagement and collaboration.

The second presentation was aimed for those about to take on, or who have recently taken on, a leadership position.  

The speakers have very kindly allowed their presented material to be made available for viewing. The slides on Slideshare are now available in our APM resources area and also embedded below for reference.

Speakers:

Ayo Alagbe,  Advisory Associate Director, Anturas Consulting  Linkedin

A Chartered Project Professional and Fellow of the Association for Project Management, Ayo holds certifications in project, programme, and portfolio management. His expertise spans the entire project and programme management lifecycle, from conceptual planning and risk management to adapting delivery methodology to align with business goals. He has a proven track record of implementing governance frameworks aligned with industry best practice to improve performance, and of establishing and embedding delivery standards to enhance efficiency, consistency, and positive outcomes. 

Ayo’s experience extends across both public and private sectors, with work on transportation, utilities, and transformation initiatives. He thrives on creating value and solving complex organisational problems by applying lessons learned from diverse sectors to develop efficient, scalable solutions.

Ayo is passionate about delivering impactful results and fostering collaboration. He is motivated by the opportunity to apply programme management to achieve sustainable, meaningful, and transformational change. Ayo thrives on leading teams through transformative initiatives by building trust, encouraging collaboration, and aligning efforts towards shared goals. His dedication lies in consistently exceeding expectations and leaving a lasting, positive impact on clients and teams alike.

Gordon MacKay Capability Lead, Project Management Capability, Sellafield Ltd Linkedin 

Author: APM Published ''Evolving Project Leadership From command and control to engage and empower' (2021), and 'Practical Leadership' (2006), through ILM and Elsevier Publishing. Secured APM Accredited Nuclear Project Management Chartership Assessment for Sellafield Ltd. 

Completed BA(Hons) Organisation Studies 1985, Lancaster Uni, ; MBA OU 2000, BSc (Hons) 'Environmental Sciences' OU, 2012;  all informing every aspect of my life and work. 

Committed to, and Passionate about Lifelong Learning, and encouraging others to realise their True Potential.