The responsibilities of project and programme managers are being redefined by developments in artificial intelligence (AI), automation, hybrid work, and digital innovation. These factors are influencing the direction of project delivery, placing new demands on the people who lead them. As businesses allocate greater investment towards digital initiatives and adapt to new operational models, they are prioritising PMO professionals with a combination of technical proficiency and strategic oversight. This article explores the skills that will matter in 2025 and how organisations can secure the talent required to maintain delivery standards.

The Evolution of PMO Skillsets

Project and programme management has moved far beyond its former administrative function. Today’s PMOs play a central role in supporting commercial outcomes, requiring alignment between delivery and long-term business goals. Data-led decision making, stakeholder engagement, and governance have become everyday considerations, with PMO professionals expected to manage these elements while maintaining momentum across complex portfolios.

Automation and AI are now routine components of delivery frameworks. These technologies are refining how projects are planned and monitored, enabling greater accuracy in forecasting and resource allocation. As automated systems manage increasingly repetitive tasks, PMO professionals are expected to apply critical judgment in the areas that technology cannot cover, ensuring commercial objectives remain the primary focus.

The Must-Have PMO Skills for 2025

Research indicates that technological understanding is becoming an essential requirement for PMO roles. According to McKinsey, the demand for technological and data literacy skills is projected to increase significantly by 2030, with businesses seeking professionals who can work alongside automated systems to enhance delivery accuracy and reduce inefficiencies.

Strategic leadership remains fundamental. As projects become more complex and interdependent, professionals who can maintain oversight of multiple workstreams and ensure they contribute to broader business strategies will continue to be highly valued.

Interpersonal skills, including emotional intelligence, are equally important. Research from McKinsey highlights that communication, teamwork, and adaptability are now among the most important attributes for future workforces, particularly as teams become more dispersed across hybrid working models.

Change management is another core competency. PwC’s UK CEO Survey reports that 98% of UK CEOs intend to make significant changes to their business models in the next year, placing pressure on PMO leaders to guide organisations through these transitions while maintaining operational stability.

Finally, the ability to apply data insights in real-time to support decision making is now standard practice. Those who can interpret complex data sets and use them to direct project delivery will remain sought after.

Certifications and Qualifications

Formal accreditation continues to play an important role in demonstrating competence. Chartered status from the Association for Project Management (APM) remains widely respected, alongside certifications in agile methodologies such as Scrum Master qualifications.

Industry trends suggest a growing emphasis on complementary training in data analysis, automation, and AI applications. These areas are becoming embedded within project environments, and PMO professionals who can demonstrate proficiency are increasingly in demand. Portfolio management qualifications are also valued, reflecting the increasing need to manage multiple concurrent projects with strategic oversight. For those seeking insight into current salary expectations for PMO roles, 83zero’s Agile Product & Project Management Salary Guide offers a helpful benchmark for both professionals and employers.

Future-Proofing PMO Teams

Businesses seeking to maintain effective PMO functions are focusing on two parallel priorities: upskilling current teams and attracting talent with proven expertise. McKinsey’s research indicates that investment in reskilling and upskilling will be essential to keep pace with technological changes, with businesses identifying data literacy and critical thinking as areas requiring attention.

Supporting existing staff with structured development opportunities, particularly in AI, automation, and hybrid team leadership, helps organisations retain knowledge while strengthening future capabilities. The UK Government’s AI Opportunity Forum is prioritising workforce upskilling to support AI adoption in business, highlighting the need for ongoing development within PMO teams.

This commitment to continuous learning also enables teams to balance the efficiencies delivered by automated tools with the human judgment required for complex problem-solving. According to the PwC Executive Survey, businesses that successfully manage cost pressures while continuing to invest in technology and skills are better placed to maintain performance and resilience in the face of ongoing challenges.

Alongside internal development, securing external talent is equally important. 83zero’s expertise in identifying PMO professionals with these combined skills ensures that businesses can maintain delivery standards while adapting to new demands. By partnering with specialists who understand the current requirements of PMO functions, organisations can secure the professionals needed to manage large-scale projects while supporting broader business aims.

As AI becomes further integrated into project environments, the ability to balance human insight with automated processes will define successful teams. While technology supports efficiency, it is experienced professionals who provide the judgement, adaptability, and oversight that keep delivery aligned with strategic goals.

How 83zero Can Support Your Next Step

The role of PMOs is changing - professionals must continue developing their expertise to stay relevant in an environment shaped by digital innovation and automation. At the same time, companies are focusing on hiring project and programme managers with a future-ready skillset to meet growing demands and maintain consistent delivery across increasingly complex portfolios.

Whether you're looking for exceptional PMO talent you can trust or exploring your next PMO role to advance your career, 83zero can help - contact us today or take a look at some of our latest opportunities here, or speak to our specialist team.