The role of the project manger as lead partner in a project is quite challenging. You have to have an overall view of the project and its various activities, deliverables, deadlines, roles and responsibilities of each partner. You have to coordinate and monitor the progress of each work package, monitor budget and do time management. The project manager is the one who solves unclear issues and guide partners to do their part of the project, so that you all can succeed together.

I accepted the challenge of the project manager’s position as lead partner in ENRICHER hubs project, which started in the beginning of 2024. I am passionate about our Erasmus Plus funded capacity building in higher education project, which aims to enhance sustainable tourism in Georgia and Moldova. In close cooperation with our Haaga-Helia Enricher-team, I work to support the partners. The focus being on building a clear structure for collaborative platforms like the MS Teams channels, coordinating project mangers meetings and communicating with partners. These are typical tasks for a project manager in any project.

What is missing from the previous task list is one essential aspect, that is not always easy to manage: how to motivate and support people to do their best. Below is the essentials all project managers should be aware of, based on my experience.

1. Reserve time for building an open and positive atmosphere. Do not jump directly into the meeting agenda, without reserving time for small talk in the beginning. When we get to know each other, everything works more smoothly. Knowing each partner helps you also to create trust between people. Good relationships with your partners helps a lot if you face problems or challenges.
2. Communicate clearly and with respect. It is essential to get partners on the same page in the project. For that you need regular communication. Be also as clear as possible with duties and deadlines. Kindly remind your partners that they have to deliver what they are responsible for. The project plan and partnership agreement is your guideline. Co-create with your partners a Code of conduct for your project in the early phase of the project.
3. Show empathy and curiousity. Try to understand your partners and their cultural background. Work cultures are different. In all projects, there are challenging situations and we do not always understand each other. Arrange one-on-one meetings for discussions and for listening to the views of your partners. Try to learn from them as well and show that you care.
4. Be supportive and service-oriented. Do not forget the impact of your own attitude. Show in your daily work that you appreciate and care for your partners. Give them positive feedback for progress or any good efforts. Saying thank you is a small, but very important gesture. Try to help your partners when they have questions or concerns. Sometimes, you may not hold an immediate answer, but you can always promise to find one.

It is good to remember that a project manager does not have to solve everything alone. The project is not a ‘one-man show’. It is continuous teamwork together with partners and a collaborative learning process. Participating in an Erasmus Plus -project like ours is a great way to learn from different universities and different cultures, get a broader international network and to enhance important develepment or research work in an international environment. I definitely find the work meaningful.

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