On 16 September 2026, the PMI UK Chapter London Branch welcomed project professionals to the University of Westminster for an engaging session entitled “Coaching Skills Every Project Manager Needs (Even if You’re Not a Coach)”, presented by Career and Leadership coach Hanh La-Bell.
Hanh is the founder of The Quiet Advantage and specialises in supporting introverted professionals. Her career spans more than 20 years across global corporations and start-ups, progressing from hands-on technical project management to Programme Lead and Head of PMO roles. She has delivered digital transformation, data and CRM systems, marketing technology and systems migration programmes with budgets exceeding £1 million across sectors including finance, travel, retail and publishing.
Drawing on this extensive experience, Hanh explored a reality familiar to every project professional: Project Managers often spend more time managing people than managing plans, yet relatively few receive formal training in the interpersonal skills that can make the greatest difference.
The session translated core coaching techniques, including active listening, asking powerful questions and providing constructive feedback, into practical approaches that Project Managers can apply immediately in stakeholder meetings, status updates and difficult conversations. These skills can help build stronger project teams, improve stakeholder relationships and increase a Project Manager’s influence and effectiveness.
The subject was particularly relevant to professionals who lead without necessarily being the loudest voice in the room and who want their influence to arise from substance, confidence and the quality of their interactions rather than from volume.
The presentation concluded with a lively and engaging Q&A session. Those present showed considerable interest in the topics discussed, raising thoughtful questions and sharing their own perspectives, while Hanh responded enthusiastically and welcomed the opportunity to engage in a stimulating exchange of ideas.
Appreciation to the entire London Branch team for organising and delivering another valuable in-person event for our professional community.
Special recognition must be given to Alastair Hare for his important contribution to the organisation of the event and for generously providing refreshments for those attending. His commitment and practical support helped to create a welcoming environment in which participants could learn, exchange experiences and strengthen their professional connections.
The occasion also provided an opportunity to recognise Dwina Menam Ritonga, who joined the London Branch team one year ago while completing her Master’s degree. During this year, Dwina proved herself to be an exceptionally active, dependable and effective member of the team, a real performer whose contribution has been greatly appreciated. Having now completed her Master’s degree, Dwina is leaving the United Kingdom to return permanently to her home country, Indonesia. Although we are sorry to see her leave, we congratulate her warmly on completing this important stage of her professional journey and thank her sincerely for everything she has contributed to the London Branch and the wider PMI UK Chapter community.
We wish Dwina every success and happiness in the next chapter of her life and career in Indonesia. She leaves with our gratitude, our admiration and our very best wishes for the future.
Franco Guarrella
President PMI UK Chapter