Rüdiger Geist
Rüdiger Geist is a senior project management professional with over 30 years of experience in PMO leadership, project and program management, and risk management across diverse industries. He has achieved several high-level project management certifications, including IPMA Level B, PMP®, and a Master’s Certificate in Project Management from George Washington University. His qualifications are further enhanced by his certifications as a CMMI and SPICE assessor, solidifying his expertise in process improvement and project governance.
Rüdiger has a proven track record of successfully leading large-scale programs and complex projects, particularly in the areas of IT, financial services, government, and media. His roles have included managing complex multi-million dollar programs, such as his work at Credit Suisse, where he was responsible for overseeing a global project portfolio spanning multiple continents. He developed and implemented PMO structures that ensured effective governance, streamlined communication, and consistent delivery of projects within scope, time, and budget. His ability to lead both traditional and agile projects has allowed him to adapt to varying project needs and environments, ensuring the successful completion of high-stakes initiatives.
One of Rüdiger’s core strengths lies in his experience as a program and portfolio manager. For instance, he managed the implementation of a Project Portfolio Management (PPM) system for a leading Swiss research organization, where he led the evaluation and deployment of PM tools and methodologies to optimize resource allocation and risk management. His leadership on these large programs often involved steering cross-functional teams and managing key stakeholders, including executive management and board members. Additionally, Rüdiger has led programs in digital transformation, where his agile management skills enabled the seamless delivery of projects such as CMS systems for media companies and eGovernment solutions for Swiss cantons.
In the area of risk management, Rüdiger has been instrumental in developing and implementing risk management frameworks that identify potential project threats early and establish mitigation strategies. This was particularly evident in his work for Credit Suisse, where he played a key role in managing risks across a portfolio of global IT infrastructure projects. His structured approach to risk management has repeatedly ensured that projects remained on track and within budget, despite complex external and internal challenges.
As Managing Director of Spirit at PM GmbH, Rüdiger has led numerous consulting engagements, providing coaching, training, and hands-on leadership in project management. He has introduced PMO systems, implemented PPM methodologies, and conducted training programs that have enhanced the project management capabilities of many organizations. Notably, he developed the award-winning haptic project management simulation "Swiss Island®," demonstrating his ability to innovate in the field of project management education.
In terms of technical skills, Rüdiger has deep expertise in MS Office and various project management tools, including PM software solutions, which he has utilized to streamline operations and improve project delivery. He is also highly proficient in data analysis and the use of databases, which further supports his project controlling and portfolio management efforts. His self-driven, highly organized, and solution-oriented approach makes him a reliable leader capable of handling the most complex projects with ease.
Fluent in both German and English, Rüdiger is comfortable working in international environments, where his excellent communication and negotiation skills have earned him recognition from clients, colleagues, and stakeholders alike. His strong leadership, combined with his extensive experience in project, program, and risk management, positions him as a key asset for any organization seeking to optimize its project outcomes and align them with strategic business goals.