Course Description: Similar to managing Scope, Schedule and Budget, the “Lead, Manage, Do” framework can help guide your thinking in how you show up to work each day as a Project Manager in that you can only be effective in two of the three areas at any one moment. You will continuously shift modes throughout the day and knowing what “mode” you’re in at the present moment – or where you’re headed in the next – can inform your approach to achieve your desired outcome.

Speaker: Mark Thole, PMP, PSPO

Speaker Bio: Mark Thole grew up around computers, beginning in the 1980s on a Radio Shack TRS-80 with a cassette tape drive for storage, where his father taught him to program in BASIC.

Combining that early technical foundation with a degree in Psychology from the University of Minnesota, Mark brings a unique perspective shaped by nearly 30 years of experience writing code and managing projects, programs, portfolios, and products. Over his career, he has worked with some of the world’s largest organizations, experiences he now shares with audiences seeking practical insight into modern leadership and delivery.

Mark is an experienced “4P” manager—project, program, portfolio, and product—with a career spanning nearly three decades in technology and project management. His 4P journey began unexpectedly when he was asked to take over a failing project, despite having no formal project management training. That pivotal moment sparked a passion for the discipline and set the course for his career.

Over the years, Mark has worked with organizations including Accenture, Technology Solutions Company, Gensler, and Organic Valley. He has held a wide range of roles, including full-stack developer, project manager, product manager/owner, Scrum Master, program manager, and studio director. His expertise centers on leading complex initiatives, developing innovative solutions, and helping teams deliver meaningful results.

Mark’s career highlights include developing custom applications for automotive leaders such as Nissan, Toyota, and GM, as well as creating a configurable program management SaaS platform at Gensler. Most recently, he served as Director of the Program and Project Management Office at Organic Valley, where he played a key role in the successful greenfield RISE implementation of SAP S/4HANA, IBP, and SAC. He currently serves as Managing Director of MP4 LLC.

Mark’s story reflects resilience, adaptability, and a relentless pursuit of excellence in the evolving field of project management.

Come join us at Viterbo for Mark's presentation as well as to mix and mingle with project management professionals, students and faculty.

PDUs
Earn 1 PDU (Professional Development Unit - .25 Ways of Working and .75 Power Skills) towards your recertification.

AGENDA

• 5:30 pm - 6:00 pm Networking and Meal
• 6:00 pm - 7:00 pm Presentation 
• 7:00 pm - 7:30 pm Q&A and Prize Drawing

ATTENDEES