The importance of diversity and inclusion in project management

Dr Yvonne Thompson

President, Association for Project Management (APM)

Diversity is not just a goal — it’s a pivotal part of what makes the project profession thrive. The importance of D&I in project management cannot be overstated.

As APM’s new president, one of my key priorities is to help the project profession become more diverse and inclusive. Diversity has been woven into the fabric of my 40-year career. APM is already leading the way with impactful initiatives, including the Women in Project Management Interest Network, which champions inclusivity for everyone — regardless of race, gender or age; the Women in Project Management Conference; and educational outreach to raise awareness of project careers for people from all social and economic backgrounds.

Tackling the gender imbalance in leadership roles

Our most recent survey of project and programme professionals indicates a sizeable majority of people working in the profession are men. APM’s ‘Salary and Market Trends Survey’ reported that, while there are reasonably even splits for mid-level and administrative roles, the balance skewed heavily in favour of men when it comes to senior roles such as Head of Projects and Project Director.

The survey notes that the number of women in these roles is increasing, but this isn’t being observed everywhere. In addition, the gender pay gap in the project profession is 16% higher than the national average, and the number of females in leadership roles is at risk of stagnation.

One of my main goals is to combat this issue of stagnation and break down barriers for women in leadership and those entering the project profession. By fostering an inclusive environment that actively seeks to attract and retain more women, the profession can harness a broader range of skills, experiences and viewpoints.

In addition, the gender pay gap in the project profession is 16% higher than the national average, and the number of females in leadership roles is at risk of stagnation.

Diversity across project teams

Greater diversification is not merely a matter of equity but a strategic advantage. Research consistently shows that diverse teams bring a range of perspectives, experiences and problem-solving approaches. When project managers lead teams composed of individuals from various backgrounds, they benefit from a wealth of ideas and viewpoints. Inclusion in project management also ensures that all team members feel valued and empowered to contribute their ideas, which can significantly boost morale and productivity.

In a globalised world, projects often involve stakeholders from different regions, cultures and industries. A project manager who fosters diversity and inclusion is better equipped to understand and navigate these complexities. As project managers navigate an increasingly complex world, embracing diversity and inclusion is essential for achieving success.