Today’s motion gets to the heart of one of project management’s most debated dynamics:

👉 “An effective executive sponsor is much more likely to influence a successful project outcome than a competent project manager.”

Mary Elizabeth argues for the motion, highlighting the sponsor’s organizational power, strategic visibility, and ability to remove roadblocks at the highest levels.

Philip argues against, defending the frontline role of the project manager as the one who plans, leads, and delivers outcomes day in and day out.

Together, they unpack:

* The power dynamics between sponsor and PM

* What happens when one role is strong but the other is weak

* How sponsorship and leadership intersect (and sometimes collide)

Whether you think project success hinges on executive influence or day-to-day execution, this episode will sharpen how you see both roles and how to work smarter across the leadership divide.

🎧 Listen now and join the debate

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