This episode is about the leadership superpowers required to run the biggest projects in the world. We’re joined by Tim McManus, a global expert in mega- and giga-project delivery who has led massive construction and infrastructure programs across continents. With experience across energy, transportation, and sports, Tim shares what changes at mega scale and why it demands a different kind of leader. Hear the stories and ask yourself if you have what it takes.
1. 00:00–03:41 | Introduction & Background
Tim’s path into mega- and giga-projects and his global career.
2. 03:41–05:00 | Early Leadership Lessons
The shift from managing projects to leading people.
3. 05:34–07:00 | Learning From Mentors
Why great leaders learn from those around them.
4. 07:12–07:39 | What Are Mega & Gigaprojects?
A clear definition across asset classes.
5. 07:52–08:22 | Global Scale & Impact
Why these projects exceed expectations worldwide.
6. 09:30 | A Light Moment
A humorous take on “mega projects.”
7. 09:50–11:00 | Beyond the Budget
Complexity, risk, and long-term impact.
8. 11:58–13:18 | Crossrail Case Study
Workforce challenges and strategic vision.
9. 13:23–14:50 | Strategic Project Approach
Why planning sets the foundation.
10. 14:57–18:15 | Defining Success
Legacy, people, and professional growth.
11. 18:15–19:22 | Industry Outlook
Why now is a compelling time in construction.
12. 19:58–22:23 | Favorite Megaproject
What made it stand out.
13. 23:36–24:30 | Common Challenges
Where mega- and giga-projects struggle.
14. 24:33–25:12 | The Planning Gap
Why planning is rushed at great risk.
15. 25:45–26:45 | Lessons Learned
The value of experience and insight.
16. 26:46–30:26 | Olympic-Scale Lessons
Leadership insights at extreme scale.
17. 30:49–31:00 | Legacy Benefits
Delivering lasting value.
18. 31:17–34:00 | Leadership Mindsets
Why many large projects lack leadership.
19. 35:00–35:40 | Choosing the Right Leader
How leaders are selected.
20. 35:40–37:00 | Leadership Traits
Communication, credibility, vision, and risk.
21. 37:23–End | Developing Your Skills
Continuing growth through learning and education.
Additional Resources
PMI Managing Mega-projects: https://bit.ly/4reLYdX
PMI Managing Giga-projects: https://bit.ly/4a9IFPr
The Art of Project Leadership (McKinsey): https://bit.ly/3ZiTw3z
Managing Big Projects – Tim McManus: https://bit.ly/3LSzv0k
Columbia Global Leaders in Construction Management: https://www.glcm.info/
Bent Flyvbjerg, How Big Things Get Done: https://www.linkedin.com/in/flyvbjerg/
Project Insight Website
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