Expert emphasizes importance of emotional intelligence in building high-performing project management teams

Emotional intelligence is increasingly recognized as a critical factor across several disciplines including project management, particularly in fostering high-performing teams. Research indicates that project managers who possess strong emotional intelligence can better navigate the complexities of team dynamics, leading to improved collaboration, communication, and overall project success. Olaitan Oyekunle, a Senior Project Manager and Scrum Master with over fifteen years of combined experience successfully leading projects across the financial services, energy, and IT sectors, emphasizes the profound impact of emotional intelligence on team performance.

Oyekunle believes that when team members feel understood and appreciated, they are more likely to contribute their best efforts, leading to enhanced productivity and innovation. “Team members are human and should be treated like one. Emotional intelligence is the cornerstone of effective project management. It allows leaders to understand their team members’ emotions, which in turn fosters a supportive environment where everyone feels valued.”

In discussing the relationship between emotional intelligence and high-performing teams, Oyekunle states, “A project manager’s ability to empathize with team members can significantly reduce conflicts and misunderstandings. This creates a culture of trust and collaboration, essential for any team aiming for high performance.” He highlights that emotional intelligence enables project managers to recognize and address issues before they escalate, ensuring that the team remains focused on their goals. Oyekunle believes that fostering open communication and encouraging feedback by project managers can cultivate an environment where team members feel empowered to share ideas and solutions.

Oyekunle further emphasizes that team members should have a voice and feel heard, “Successful teams are built on the foundation of emotional intelligence. When team members feel safe to express their thoughts and emotions, they are more likely to take risks and innovate.” He advocates for project managers to prioritize emotional intelligence training and development, as it equips them with the tools necessary to lead diverse teams effectively. Through an understanding and management of their own emotions, as well as those of their team members, project managers should create a cohesive unit that thrives on collaboration and shared success.

As a leader in project management, Oyekunle currently serves as a Project Manager at a top regulatory organization in the United Kingdom, where he has successfully led numerous high-profile organizational projects that have significantly contributed to the organization’s goals and objectives. His previous role as a project manager and product owner at PAYSURE Technologies Ltd further solidified his expertise in managing complex projects. Oyekunle’s career began at Polaris Bank Limited, where he held various positions, including Business Development Manager, Digital Banking, and Team Lead in Commercial and Investment Banking, showcasing his versatility and leadership capabilities.

Oyekunle’s academic credentials are impressive, holding a Master’s in Project Management from the University of Northampton with Distinction, a Master of Business Administration in Financial Management from Ladoke Akintola University of Technology, and an Advanced Certificate in Management Consulting & Project Management from the London School of Business & Finance. These qualifications have equipped him with a robust foundation in both theoretical and practical aspects of project management.

In addition to his academic achievements, Oyekunle is a member of several prestigious professional organizations, including a Fellow at the Project Management Institute (PMI), Fellow of the Institute of Professional Financial Managers (FIPFM), and a member of the Association of Project Management (APM). He is also a Fellow of the Institute of Credit Administration (FICA) and a member of the Nigeria Institute of Management (MNIM) and the Chartered Institute of Bankers of Nigeria.

Oyekunle has earned numerous certifications that further validate his expertise, including APM PFQ, PRINCE2, Professional Scrum Master (PSM), AWS Certified Cloud Practitioner, and certifications from the Association of Project Management (APM). These credentials reflect his commitment to continuous professional development and excellence in project management.