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

Unanimous Election Marks a New Era for Project Management

On October 6, 2026, the International Project Management Association (IPMA World) made a significant step forward by electing Professor Vladimir Obradović as its new president, marking a moment of unity and vision for the organization. Obradović's election, which came in an unprecedented unanimous vote, showcases the confidence held by member associations in his leadership capabilities and vision for the future of project management globally.

Having previously served as the vice-president of IPMA, Obradović is no stranger to the intricacies and demands of leading an organization that is pivotal in the advancement of project management worldwide. His tenure in various international committees has equipped him with unique insights into the dynamics of project management practices, making him well-suited to steer IPMA into a new phase of development.

Alongside Obradović, the new leadership team consists of Tim Jaques from the United States and Giovanni Pisano from Italy, both elected as vice-presidents. In addition, Professor Mladen Vukomanović from Croatia has assumed the role of President of the Council of Delegates, ensuring a diverse and experienced leadership core.

A Vision for Global Impact

Under Obradović's leadership, IPMA aims to bolster its international presence and influence, emphasizing the necessity of enhancing project management practices in both the private sector and public institutions. Key areas of focus will be the acceleration of project capacity building and improving infrastructure project implementation through global partnerships.

Obradović articulated, "Sustainability and artificial intelligence will be among IPMA’s top priorities, enabling us to support the global project management community and help shape the future of this profession." This forward-thinking approach is indicative of a leader who not only recognizes the challenges faced in modern project management but is also aware of the solutions that innovation and collaboration can foster.

The Role of IPMA

As a federation that represents over 70 national associations, IPMA plays a critical role in setting worldwide standards, fostering competencies, and enhancing professional practices within project and portfolio management. The significance of effective project management cannot be overstated, especially as organizations are increasingly tasked with navigating complex projects that necessitate strategic foresight and efficient resource allocation.

Obradović, who is also a professor at the Faculty of Organizational Sciences at the University of Belgrade, brings a wealth of academic and professional experience. His scholarly work combined with hands-on project management roles positions him uniquely to lead IPMA in advocating for continuous development in the era of digital transformation and sustainability.

Future Directions

The new leadership team under Obradović is expected to strengthen ties with global stakeholders, thereby enhancing collaboration with governments, private institutions, and non-profit organizations. IPMA’s renewed focus on sustainability reflects a global shift towards environmentally conscious practices in project management.

As the world faces unprecedented challenges, such as climate change and digital disruptions, the project management discipline must evolve to meet these demands. Under the guidance of Vladimir Obradović, IPMA is poised to become a frontrunner in promoting innovative practices that the modern project landscape requires.

In summary, Professor Obradović's election marks not just a new chapter for IPMA World, but a commitment to advancing the project management profession on a global scale. His vision for sustainability and integration of artificial intelligence will not only enhance the effectiveness of project delivery but also contribute to a more resilient and adaptable future for project managers worldwide.

As IPMA transitions into this new phase, all eyes will be on Obradović and his team to see how they will shape the landscape of project management in the years to come.