Recognized by SME Business Review as one of the ‘10 Fascinating Women Entrepreneurs to Watch 2024,’ Jennifer McShane Bary has made her mark as a visionary in event planning and project management. As the founder and CEO of JMB Project Management, she has driven her company to prominence with innovative solutions like the trademarked ‘PMO-in-a-Box.’ With over two decades of experience, Jennifer’s career reflects a relentless pursuit of excellence, from her career-defining role as CIO at The O2 in London, where she managed high-profile events for world-renowned artists, to her ongoing efforts to redefine project management practices.

Jennifer’s approach combines strategic vision with meticulous attention to detail, turning complex challenges into meaningful successes. Her commitment to advancing industry standards is evident in initiatives like the Middle East Summit of Excellence, a platform she established to recognize and inspire leadership and achievement across the region. Her leadership, creativity, and forward-thinking approach continue to make her one of the most influential entrepreneurs of her generation.

Editor of SME Business Review, J. A. Magray, sat down with Jennifer McShane Bary to discuss her journey and create a detailed profile highlighting the key milestones that have shaped her impact in the industry. Here’s what Jennifer had to say.

Interview Excerpts

What sparked your interest in event planning and project management, and how has your passion for these fields evolved over the years?

My journey into event planning and project management was sparked by a deep-seated desire to create meaningful experiences and bring visions to life. Early in my career, I worked as a legal secretary, where attention to detail was paramount. This role laid the foundation for my love of organization and planning. Over the years, my passion evolved as I took on more complex projects, realizing the profound impact that well-executed events and meticulously managed projects can have on both individuals and organizations. My interest grew from organizing smaller gatherings to taking on large-scale events and projects that challenge my creativity, leadership, and ability to adapt to new and unexpected circumstances. The satisfaction of seeing a project or event come to fruition, knowing that every detail was meticulously planned, continues to fuel my passion.

Could you share some of the key challenges you faced in your journey, particularly while organizing large-scale events?

Organizing large-scale events is inherently challenging, and one of the most significant hurdles I have faced is managing the unpredictability that comes with such projects. Whether it's last-minute changes in logistics, unanticipated technical difficulties, or the need to quickly adapt to unforeseen circumstances, these challenges require quick thinking and problem-solving skills. Another challenge is coordinating the efforts of diverse teams and ensuring that everyone is aligned with the overall vision and objectives of the event. Communication is key and ensuring that all stakeholders are informed and engaged can be a complex task. Additionally, balancing the creative aspects of event planning with the practicalities of budget management and time constraints is always a challenge. However, these obstacles have taught me the importance of resilience, flexibility, and maintaining a calm demeanor under pressure.

How did your experience as CIO at The O2 shape your approach to managing high-profile events and complex projects?

My tenure as CIO at The O2 was a transformative experience that greatly influenced my approach to managing high-profile events and complex projects. The O2 is one of the world’s most iconic entertainment venues, and working there exposed me to the intricacies of managing large-scale events with global impact. I learned the importance of meticulous planning and the need for seamless coordination between various departments, including technology, security, and operations. This role also emphasized the importance of staying ahead of the curve in terms of technological advancements and integrating these into the event planning process. My experience at The O2 reinforced the value of strategic vision, where every decision is made with the end goal in mind. It also taught me the importance of adaptability, as events of this scale often require quick responses to changes and challenges.

Could you share a defining moment in your career that significantly shaped your path as an entrepreneur?

A defining moment in my career was the decision to apply for the role of CIO at The O2 in London. It was a bold move that pushed me out of my comfort zone and challenged my self-belief. The experience of managing one of the world’s leading entertainment venues was not only a tremendous learning opportunity but also a confidence booster. It was during this time that I realized my potential to lead and manage large-scale projects, which eventually inspired me to launch my own venture, JMB Project Management. This experience instilled in me the belief that taking calculated risks can lead to significant growth and new opportunities. It was a pivotal point that shaped my entrepreneurial journey, giving me the confidence to pursue my vision of creating a company that excels in delivering innovative project management solutions.

The Middle East Summit of Excellence Awards is a significant initiative. What inspired you to create an awards platform dedicated to celebrating achievements in the Middle East?

The Middle East is a region rich with innovation, creativity, and leadership across various sectors, yet I felt there was a need for a platform that truly celebrates these achievements on a grand scale. The idea for the Middle East Summit of Excellence Awards was born out of a desire to recognize and honor the individuals and organizations that are making significant contributions to the region's development. I wanted to create an event that not only celebrates success but also inspires others to strive for excellence. The Summit provides a platform for networking, knowledge-sharing, and fostering collaborations that can further drive growth in the Middle East. It’s about bringing together the brightest minds and recognizing the hard work and dedication that goes into achieving excellence, all while shining a spotlight on the region's potential.

JMB’s PMO-in-a-Box has been described as a game-changer in project management. What led to its creation, and how do you see it transforming organizations?

PMO-in-a-Box was created out of a need I observed in many organizations—there was a gap between strategic vision and execution. Many companies struggle with implementing effective project management practices that align with their business goals. PMO-in-a-Box was designed to bridge this gap by providing a comprehensive, ready-to-implement solution that standardizes project management practices across an organization. It’s a customizable toolkit that includes all the necessary processes, templates, and tools needed to establish or enhance a Project Management Office (PMO). The goal is to empower organizations to manage projects more efficiently, reduce risks, and achieve better outcomes. By streamlining processes and providing clear guidelines, PMO-in-a-Box helps organizations to not only manage their current projects more effectively but also to build a sustainable project management culture that supports long-term success.

How do you maintain a meticulous level of detail and strategic vision across the multiple roles and responsibilities you handle?

Maintaining a meticulous level of detail while keeping a strategic vision is about balance and effective time management. I rely heavily on structured processes and tools that help me stay organized and prioritize tasks. Delegation is also crucial; I trust my team to handle specific responsibilities, allowing me to focus on the bigger picture. Regular check-ins and status updates ensure that nothing falls through the cracks, while also giving me the flexibility to make adjustments as needed. Additionally, I make it a point to stay informed about the latest trends and developments in my fields of interest, which helps me maintain a forward-thinking approach. This combination of strategic planning, attention to detail, and staying connected with my team allows me to manage multiple roles effectively.

What advice would you give to other women looking to turn their passion into a successful business?

My advice to women looking to turn their passion into a successful business is to believe in yourself and your vision. Confidence in your abilities and the value of your ideas is crucial. Start by setting clear goals and developing a solid plan to achieve them. Surround yourself with a supportive network of mentors, peers, and advisors who can offer guidance and encouragement. Don’t be afraid to take risks—sometimes the biggest opportunities come from stepping outside your comfort zone. It’s also important to stay resilient in the face of challenges; every setback is an opportunity to learn and grow. Lastly, maintain a strong focus on delivering value to your customers or clients; their satisfaction will drive your success.

What are some of the trends you believe will shape the future of project management and event organization in the coming years?

I believe that technology will continue to play a significant role in shaping the future of project management and event organization. The use of AI and data analytics is already transforming how we plan, execute, and measure the success of projects and events. Automation tools will become more sophisticated, allowing for greater efficiency and accuracy in managing complex tasks. Additionally, the focus on sustainability is likely to grow, with more events and projects incorporating eco-friendly practices. Virtual and hybrid events, which gained popularity during the pandemic, are here to stay, offering new opportunities for engagement and reach. Finally, the emphasis on diversity and inclusion will continue to influence how we approach both project management and event planning, ensuring that these practices reflect and support a broader range of perspectives and experiences.

Jennifer McShane Bary, Founder & CEO, JMB Project Management