Project Management Institute Named Interim CEO

The Philadelphia-based organization appointed Johannes Heinlein to the role after Pierre Le Manh stepped down.

Updated on Oct. 1, 2026 in People

Isometric editorial illustration of a polished stone plinth and architectural column, symbolizing organizational structure and stability. — The Project Management Institute has appointed chief growth officer Johannes Heinlein as interim CEO following the departure of Pierre Le Manh. AI Illustration. Upload story photo >

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The Project Management Institute has appointed chief growth officer Johannes Heinlein as its interim president and chief executive officer. This leadership shift follows the departure of Pierre Le Manh, who resigned from the top post to pursue a new professional challenge.

Why it matters

The transition occurs as the organization navigates significant changes within the project management profession, specifically those driven by the rise of artificial intelligence. The board is currently overseeing a search process to select a permanent successor for the chief executive role.

Pierre Le Manh served as president and chief executive officer for a total of 4 years. His departure marks the end of a tenure that began when he joined the Philadelphia-based institute in September 2022.

The players

Johannes Heinlein

He is the current chief growth officer for the Project Management Institute who has been appointed as the organization's interim president and chief executive officer.

Pierre Le Manh

He served as the president and chief executive officer of the Project Management Institute for four years until he stepped down on September 30, 2026.

Project Management Institute

Headquartered in Philadelphia, this global organization provides professional development and certification for project management practitioners.

The details

The board of the Project Management Institute named Heinlein to the interim leadership position effective immediately upon the departure of Le Manh. The organization intends to release further information regarding its formal search for a permanent replacement in the coming months.

September 2022: Pierre Le Manh joined the Project Management Institute.
September 30, 2026: Pierre Le Manh departed his role.
September 30, 2026: Johannes Heinlein was appointed as interim leader.

Market Landscape

The transition aligns with the organization's strategic adaptation to the integration of artificial intelligence in project management workflows. By appointing a new interim leader, the institute aims to maintain stability while evolving its offerings to meet changing industry demands.

Members and clients should expect updates on the long-term leadership direction in the coming months as the search for a permanent chief executive proceeds. Standard service operations and professional certifications are expected to continue under the current interim guidance.

The takeaway

Leadership transitions in professional organizations often signal a shift in strategic priorities as they seek to address new technological challenges. Members should monitor board communications for updates on how future executive appointments might influence organizational policy.