What we do, how we show up, and why it matters

What really makes a PMO successful? It’s rarely the frameworks or the tools alone – it’s the behaviours behind them.

This interactive session explores the behaviours that underpin effective PMOs, drawing directly from the PMO Competency Framework and insights from the Inside PMO research. We’ll look at behaviour at three levels:

• individual PMO professionals,
• PMO teams,
• and the PMO as an organisational entity.

Because behaviour isn’t just personal. When it’s consistent and collective, it shapes trust, influence, and outcomes.

Why behaviour matters

PMOs don’t operate in a vacuum. Organisational culture, pressure, incentives, and context all influence how a PMO behaves day to day.

We’ll explore why behaviours that work well in a portfolio PMO might not land in a project office or a centre of excellence, and how context changes what ‘good’ looks like. We’ll also look at the unintended behaviours PMOs can drift into under pressure – and what to do about them.

We’ll unpack:

• Why some PMO behaviours stick
• Why others create friction or resistance
• How small, intentional shifts can make a big difference to credibility and engagement

What to expect

This isn’t a one‑way presentation.

Expect discussion, reflection, and shared experience with people who understand the realities of PMO work. You’ll be encouraged to think about your own PMO context, challenge assumptions, and learn from others in the room.

You’ll leave with practical insight you can apply straight back in your PMO – whether that’s in how you influence, how your team works together, or how the PMO is perceived across the organisation.

Expect discussion, reflection, and shared experience – not a one-way presentation. This session is ideal for experienced PMO professionals who want to evolve their practice, learn from peers, and leave with practical insight they can apply straight back in their PMO.

We’ll keep you fed and watered throughout the session with drinks and nibbles.

Who’s leading the session

This session is led by Carol Hindley and Eileen Roden – co-authors of the PMO Competency FRamework both highly experienced PMO practitioners with a strong focus on how PMOs really operate in practice. They bring deep insight into PMO behaviours, capability development, and the realities PMOs face inside complex organisations. Expect practical perspectives, honest discussion, and facilitation that encourages shared learning rather than theory-heavy answers.

Event details

Location
Nationwide House
Pipers Way
Swindon
SN3 1TA

Timings
5.30pm – arrival and networking
6.00pm – session starts
8.00pm – finish

Tickets
Free for members
£10 + VAT for non‑members

Places are limited. Booking is essential.