Quick Hits: Haryanni Masarip, PMI-ACP, PMP

Haryanni Masarip, PMI-ACP, PMP
Location: Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia
Title: Manager, project benchmarking
Organization: Petronas
Industry/Sector: Energy

What three adjectives best describe you?
Enthusiastic, adaptable and resourceful.

What’s the best project management advice you’ve received? 
Always be honest and transparent.

What do you now know that you wished you knew on your very first project?
It’s important to know what you don’t know, so don’t shy away from getting help.

Why does the world need project leaders?
Anyone can generate great ideas and point out problems, but project leaders make ideas happen and solve challenges.

What’s the most interesting project you’ve worked on?
A Petronas project to build an offshore platform for natural gas extraction and processing was eye-opening: The experience alone taught me a lot about what I don't know about project management—and that prompted me to pursue PMI’s Project Management Professional (PMP)® certification.

What advice do you have for new project managers?
Spend time on project planning because it greatly influences overall project success.

How has the pandemic affected your work habits or leadership style?
One of the things I've incorporated into my work routines is having regular nontask conversations with my colleagues. Maintaining emotional connections and bonding, which may be easily ignored while working virtually, is critical.

If you could give someone an honorary PMI certification, whom would it be? 
Boyan Slat from The Ocean Cleanup. He’s making a big impact in the world. His projects show us that when there is a will, there is a way.

How do you see the world of projects changing—and how are you futureproofing for those shifts?
I am a firm believer in learning, unlearning and relearning. Only by having a growth mindset and a passion to continuously improve your skill set will you be able to stay relevant for a long time.

How do you relieve stress?
Karaoke and painting are my go-tos.

What famous or historic person would you want on a project team?
Malaysian film director, author and screenwriter Yasmin Ahmad taught me the value of emotional intelligence. Her work, particularly on television commercials, exemplified the skills required to bring out the best in people, regardless of their differences, as well as the importance of creating a positive environment and a supportive culture.

What’s your project management mantra? 
You can have it all—just not all at once. So always plan and prioritize.

_{Photo credit: Tay Keen Meng}

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