#project management #Croatia #Vladimir Obradović #IPMA World #Zadar

Professor Vladimir Obradović Takes the Helm as IPMA World President

On October 6, 2026, a significant shift in leadership occurred within the International Project Management Association (IPMA World) as Professor Vladimir Obradović was unanimously elected as the new President. This decision signals a new chapter for IPMA, focused on enhancing the global impact of project management practices.

A Background of Leadership and Experience

Before stepping into the role of President, Obradović had an esteemed tenure as Vice President of IPMA. His experience allowed him to actively contribute to the organization's international outreach and development initiatives. His academic position as a professor at the Faculty of Organizational Sciences at the University of Belgrade further complements his professional qualifications, especially in project and programme management.

Obradović’s commitment to the field is complemented by his extensive involvement in IPMA’s global activities, underscoring his qualifications to lead IPMA into its next phase.

A New Leadership Team

Alongside Obradović, a new leadership team was assembled to foster the goals of the IPMA. Tim Jaques from the United States and Giovanni Pisano from Italy have been appointed as Vice Presidents, while Professor Mladen Vukomanović from Croatia has taken on the role of Chair of the IPMA Council of Delegates. This diverse team reflects a wide range of expertise and perspectives crucial for steering IPMA towards its ambitious goals.

Global Ambitions for IPMA

IPMA is poised to enter a new developmental phase aimed at enhancing its real-world application and visibility on an international scale. Central to this ambition is the goal of bolstering project management capabilities, particularly within the private sector. There is also a concerted effort to collaborate with governmental bodies and public organizations to refine the planning, management, and execution of major infrastructure projects globally.

“I believe that sustainability and artificial intelligence will be at the forefront of our priorities,” said Professor Obradović, highlighting key areas where IPMA plans to innovate and influence the project management community. The aim is not only to shape the future of project management practices but also to ensure that these practices contribute positively to global challenges.

Fostering Project Management in Diverse Fields

Given the growing complexity of global projects, the leadership under Obradović will emphasize developing more refined project management methodologies. These methodologies will be particularly relevant in sectors like infrastructure development and resource management, ensuring that projects are executed effectively while minimizing impact on the environment.

IPMA’s Global Reach: The International Project Management Association is a renowned federation comprised of over 70 national Member Associations from countries including Germany, China, the United States, and Japan. Each member association contributes to advancing professional standards and competencies in project management globally, reflecting the importance of collaboration across nations.

As Obradović leads IPMA into this transformative phase, his vision emphasizes not just growth but also responsibility toward a sustainable future, setting the stage for innovative practices that will define the next generation of project management.

In conclusion, the election of Professor Vladimir Obradović is a pivotal moment for IPMA, representing a commitment to not only advancing the profession of project management but doing so with a focus on sustainability, efficiency, and global cooperation. As global challenges mount, the role of effective project management becomes ever more critical, and under Obradović’s leadership, IPMA is well-positioned to meet these challenges head-on.