Project Management Institute Executive and Leadership Team

September, 2026

Leadership Overview

Project Management Institute has 10 executives leading key functions including organizational strategy, board communications, financial oversight, and regional chapter leadership.

Dedicated to advancing project professional careers globally, Project Management Institute empowers changemakers through recognized standards, certifications, and digital tools to maximize organizational impact across diverse international markets.

Leadership Roles at Project Management Institute

  • Chief Executive Officer - Raymond Mercier
  • Chief Executive Officer, Board Communications Events Lead - Lila Sidhwa
  • Chief Executive Officer, Board Communications - Eugene Nichols
  • Chief Executive Officer & President - Paul Madison
  • Chief Financial Officer - Janine Van Staden
  • President, Pmi 2006 Chapter (Houston) - Don Grosskreutz
  • President, Pmi (Emeritus, Nashville) - Ruby Reyes
  • President - Edward Spector
  • Keystone Chapter Past-President - Jesse Middaugh
  • President - Steven Haack
  • Raymond Mercier - Chief Executive Officer

    Raymond Mercier, the Chief Executive Officer at Project Management Institute, directs the overarching strategic vision for this global not-for-profit organization. Mercier architects long-term growth initiatives that expand the reach of project management standards and certifications to professionals in nearly every country. By aligning organizational resources with the evolving needs of changemakers, the Chief Executive Officer ensures that the institute remains a primary authority in professional development. Raymond Mercier maintains constant engagement with the Board to refine the mission of strengthening organizational success through innovative ways of working. This leadership role involves overseeing the integration of digital publications and online courses into the broader service portfolio. Through rigorous focus on operational excellence, Mercier drives the expansion of the institute's global footprint, ensuring that project professionals possess the necessary skills to navigate complex business environments and deliver measurable value in their respective industries.

    Lila Sidhwa - Chief Executive Officer, Board Communications Events Lead

    Lila Sidhwa, the Chief Executive Officer, Board Communications Events Lead at Project Management Institute, manages the critical intersection of executive governance and high-impact stakeholder engagement. Sidhwa designs comprehensive communication frameworks that facilitate transparent dialogue between the Board and the global community of project professionals. By coordinating large-scale events, the Chief Executive Officer, Board Communications Events Lead amplifies the institute's thought leadership and promotes the adoption of new project management methodologies. Lila Sidhwa ensures that every event serves as a platform for knowledge exchange, directly supporting the mission to advance careers and organizational success. This role requires precise synchronization with internal teams to deliver digital publications and educational content that resonate with international audiences. Through strategic event planning and clear communication channels, Sidhwa strengthens the institute's reputation as a vital resource for changemakers seeking to maximize their professional impact on a global scale.
    Lila Sidhwa

    Eugene Nichols - Chief Executive Officer, Board Communications

    Eugene Nichols, the Chief Executive Officer, Board Communications at Project Management Institute, governs the flow of information between the executive leadership and the Board to ensure alignment with the organization's for-purpose mission. Nichols architects robust communication strategies that clarify the institute's strategic objectives for stakeholders worldwide. By maintaining rigorous standards in reporting and governance, the Chief Executive Officer, Board Communications supports the effective deployment of certifications and online courses. Eugene Nichols facilitates critical discussions regarding the future of project management, ensuring that the institute adapts to shifting market demands. This leadership function involves monitoring the efficacy of global outreach programs and providing the Board with actionable insights derived from industry trends. Through consistent focus on transparency and strategic clarity, Nichols enables the organization to maintain its status as a premier provider of tools and communities for project professionals seeking to enhance their organizational contributions.

    Paul Madison - Chief Executive Officer & President

    Paul Madison, the Chief Executive Officer & President at Project Management Institute, oversees the daily operations and long-term sustainability of the organization's global initiatives. Madison drives the execution of the institute's core mission by integrating advanced project management standards into diverse professional sectors. As the Chief Executive Officer & President, Madison manages the balance between not-for-profit objectives and the need for scalable, high-quality educational offerings. Paul Madison coordinates with other executive leaders to ensure that digital publications and community resources remain accessible to changemakers in every country. This role involves identifying new opportunities for market expansion and strengthening the institute's influence on organizational success. By fostering a culture of continuous improvement, Madison ensures that the organization provides the necessary skills for professionals to thrive. Through strategic oversight of global operations, the Chief Executive Officer & President secures the institute's position as a leader in professional development and project management excellence.

    Janine Van Staden - Chief Financial Officer

    Janine Van Staden, the Chief Financial Officer at Project Management Institute, manages the fiscal health and resource allocation necessary to support the organization's global mission. Van Staden architects financial strategies that fund the development of new certifications, online courses, and digital tools. By overseeing the budget for international operations, the Chief Financial Officer ensures that the institute maintains the capacity to serve project professionals in nearly every country. Janine Van Staden collaborates with the executive team to prioritize investments that yield the highest impact on organizational success and career advancement. This leadership role involves rigorous financial planning, risk management, and the optimization of revenue streams from membership and educational offerings. Through precise fiscal oversight, Van Staden provides the stability required for the institute to innovate and expand its reach. The Chief Financial Officer directly supports the long-term viability of the organization by ensuring that financial resources align with the strategic goals of the institute.

    Don Grosskreutz - President, Pmi 2006 Chapter (Houston)

    Don Grosskreutz, the President, Pmi 2006 Chapter (Houston) at Project Management Institute, leads regional efforts to foster professional growth and community engagement within the North American market. Grosskreutz architects local initiatives that translate global standards into actionable practices for project professionals in the region. By facilitating networking opportunities and educational workshops, the President, Pmi 2006 Chapter (Houston) strengthens the local ecosystem of changemakers. Don Grosskreutz ensures that chapter activities align with the broader mission of the institute, providing members with access to essential tools and thought leadership. This role involves managing local partnerships and promoting the value of certifications to regional organizations. Through dedicated leadership, Grosskreutz drives the adoption of best practices, helping professionals maximize their impact within their specific industries. The President, Pmi 2006 Chapter (Houston) serves as a vital link between the global organization and the local community, ensuring that the institute's resources effectively support regional career advancement and organizational success.

    Ruby Reyes - President, Pmi (Emeritus, Nashville)

    Ruby Reyes, the President, Pmi (Emeritus, Nashville) at Project Management Institute, provides seasoned guidance and strategic mentorship to regional chapters, focusing on the long-term sustainability of professional communities. Reyes architects programs that preserve the institutional knowledge of the Nashville chapter while integrating modern project management methodologies. By leveraging emeritus status, the President, Pmi (Emeritus, Nashville) supports the transition of leadership and ensures continuity in the delivery of educational resources. Ruby Reyes facilitates connections between experienced professionals and emerging changemakers, fostering a culture of continuous learning. This role involves advising on regional strategy and promoting the institute's global standards to local stakeholders. Through a focus on community building and professional development, Reyes enhances the impact of the institute within the regional market. The President, Pmi (Emeritus, Nashville) remains a key figure in maintaining the strength and relevance of the organization's local presence, ensuring that project professionals have the support needed to succeed.

    Edward Spector - President

    Edward Spector, the President at Project Management Institute, directs the operational execution of strategic initiatives designed to advance the project management profession. Spector architects frameworks that streamline the delivery of certifications and online courses to a global audience. By overseeing the implementation of new digital publications, the President ensures that the institute remains at the forefront of industry thought leadership. Edward Spector collaborates with other leaders to align regional activities with the organization's overarching mission of strengthening organizational success. This role involves managing cross-functional teams to improve the accessibility and quality of professional development tools. Through a focus on operational efficiency, Spector drives the growth of the institute's community and enhances the value provided to changemakers. The President plays a central role in ensuring that the organization's offerings meet the evolving needs of project professionals, ultimately supporting the institute's goal of maximizing impact in every country around the world.

    Jesse Middaugh - Keystone Chapter Past-President

    Jesse Middaugh, the Keystone Chapter Past-President at Project Management Institute, provides strategic continuity and advisory support to the regional leadership team. Middaugh architects initiatives that leverage past successes to improve current chapter operations and member engagement. By focusing on the long-term health of the Keystone community, the Keystone Chapter Past-President ensures that local professionals continue to benefit from the institute's global standards and certifications. Jesse Middaugh facilitates the sharing of best practices and encourages the adoption of new ways of working among regional members. This role involves mentoring current leaders and maintaining strong relationships with local industry partners. Through a commitment to professional excellence, Middaugh supports the institute's mission to advance careers and strengthen organizational success. The Keystone Chapter Past-President remains an essential contributor to the regional strategy, ensuring that the institute's resources are effectively utilized to empower changemakers and drive professional growth within the local market.

    Steven Haack - President

    Steven Haack, the President at Project Management Institute, leads the development and deployment of specialized programs that enhance the professional capabilities of project managers. Haack architects strategies to increase the adoption of the institute's globally recognized standards across diverse business sectors. By focusing on the integration of new tools and digital publications, the President ensures that members have the resources required to navigate complex project environments. Steven Haack collaborates with the executive team to refine the institute's approach to organizational success and career advancement. This role involves managing the delivery of educational content and fostering a vibrant community of changemakers. Through a focus on innovation and quality, Haack drives the expansion of the institute's influence and ensures that the organization remains a primary resource for professionals worldwide. The President directly impacts the institute's ability to deliver value, supporting the mission to enable project professionals to maximize their impact in every country.

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    Frequently Asked Questions Regarding Project Management Institute Top Executives and Leadership Team

    Who leads Project Management Institute?
    Project Management Institute is led by Raymond Mercier (Chief Executive Officer), along with executives such as Lila Sidhwa (Chief Executive Officer, Board Communications Events Lead) and Eugene Nichols (Chief Executive Officer, Board Communications).
    Who is part of Project Management Institute’s executive team?
    The executive team of Project Management Institute includes leaders such as Raymond Mercier (Chief Executive Officer), Lila Sidhwa (Chief Executive Officer, Board Communications Events Lead), Eugene Nichols (Chief Executive Officer, Board Communications) and other senior executives.
    How many executives does Project Management Institute have?
    Project Management Institute has 10 executives leading key business areas.
    What roles are included in Project Management Institute’s leadership team?
    The leadership team of Project Management Institute includes roles such as Chief Executive Officer, Chief Executive Officer, Board Communications Events Lead, Chief Executive Officer, Board Communications, Chief Executive Officer & President, Chief Financial Officer.