Organisations across finance, healthcare, and energy are scaling technology-led initiatives that require experienced oversight. In these environments, the stakes are high, the work is intricate, and the risks of failure are costly. McKinsey observes that the emergence of digital-first organisations has forced traditional industries to re-examine their operating models “for greater speed, customer experience, and flexibility” (McKinsey). For many businesses, meeting these expectations hinges on the ability of project and programme managers to coordinate large-scale, business-critical work.

Sectors facing stringent regulatory requirements and sustainability goals rely on PMOs to ensure compliance and deliver operational improvements without disruption. Healthcare providers, for example, must integrate new systems while safeguarding patient data, while energy companies manage the transition to lower-carbon operations under demanding deadlines.

Further pressure comes from backlogs of work that have been delayed by the pandemic. Businesses that paused projects are now resuming them all at once, creating a high volume of overlapping work. Managing such intense periods of delivery is difficult in any environment, but it becomes even more complex when hybrid and remote working models are involved.

Organisations have adjusted their structures, with McKinsey noting that “highly efficient organisations… use collaboration technologies rather than managerial hierarchies to disseminate information” (McKinsey). However, without experienced PMO professionals ensuring communication, accountability, and momentum, even the most well-designed frameworks risk stalling.

As digital initiatives become larger and more ambitious, businesses increasingly require PMOs who understand how to balance strategic goals with practical delivery. Without that leadership, the likelihood of missing key deadlines or falling short on outcomes increases significantly.

 

The Hiring Challenges Businesses Face

While demand for PMO talent grows, the supply of experienced professionals is failing to keep pace. Organisations are finding it difficult to recruit individuals who can manage complex, high-value projects and maintain oversight across dispersed teams.

Salaries for experienced professionals have risen sharply, and with multiple organisations targeting the same individuals, candidates can be selective about the roles they take. Similar trends can be observed in related fields, such as product management, where salary growth reflects ongoing competition for specialist expertise (LaunchNotes). Businesses are not only contending with a limited pool of experienced candidates but are also facing rising employment costs due to policy and tax changes, making strategic workforce planning increasingly important (PwC).

Retention poses a further challenge. The pace and pressure of delivery can result in burnout, particularly for programme managers responsible for large, cross-departmental initiatives. Many leave roles in search of better support, clearer progression, or more balanced workloads.
In cybersecurity specifically, McKinsey notes that “gaps in cybersecurity provision continue to grow,” making skilled leadership essential in this high-risk area (McKinsey). Businesses managing sensitive data or critical infrastructure increasingly rely on PMOs with specialist knowledge in security, creating further competition for a limited pool of qualified professionals.

Organisations are also seeking PMO professionals who can manage the nuances of hybrid teams, coordinate across time zones, and maintain high standards in remote environments. According to Gartner, the function of a PMO is often to address “the IT organization’s inability to deliver IT projects on time, on budget and in scope” (Gartner). As delivery models become more dispersed and complex, that purpose has only become more vital.

 

How Companies Can Secure the Best PMO Talent

In a competitive hiring market, securing the right PMO professionals requires a considered approach.

Working with a specialist recruiter such as 83zero can provide access to an extensive network of experienced project and programme managers, including those with proven expertise in leading major digital change, regulatory compliance, and cybersecurity initiatives. With deep sector knowledge and insight into candidate expectations, 83zero helps businesses identify talent that aligns with their specific needs.

Beyond recruitment, organisations should be reviewing how attractive they are to prospective candidates. Competitive salaries and benefits are essential, but so too are clear pathways for career development, meaningful progression opportunities, and an investment in skills enhancement.
In high-risk areas such as cybersecurity, this is particularly important. As McKinsey notes, the gaps in provision are growing, and businesses must ensure they have capable leadership in place to manage those challenges.

Retention strategies also need focus. Creating working environments where PMO professionals feel supported, recognised, and able to progress reduces the risk of losing experienced staff to competitors. This might include formal mentoring, access to training, or greater involvement in strategic decision-making.

Ultimately, the organisations that succeed in attracting and retaining top PMO talent are those that understand the demands these professionals face and provide the support and recognition needed to keep them performing at their best.

 

How 83zero Can Support Your Business

Project and programme managers are central to the success of digital transformation, regulatory compliance, and large-scale change. Yet, as demand for their expertise increases, securing the right talent requires both strategic hiring and long-term retention planning.

With over a decade of experience supporting organisations across technology, finance, and consultancy, 83zero connects businesses with project leaders who combine technical understanding, sector knowledge, and proven delivery skills.

Partner with 83zero secure outstanding professionals who drive successful outcomes in today’s most complex programmes, ensuring your projects remain on track, meet strategic objectives, and deliver lasting value across every stage of delivery. With proven experience across high-pressure environments, our specialists provide the oversight, structure, and adaptability needed to manage competing priorities, safeguard timelines, and maintain quality — even when challenges intensify.