Insights from a Dynamic Project Management Duo

As the year comes to a close, it’s the perfect time to reflect on the stories of success. Behind every successful project lies a story of collaboration, determination, and mutual respect. In this interview, we shine a spotlight on Risto Sindeliev, Head of Delivery and Zeljana, Senior Project Manager at Qinshift a dynamic duo whose complementary skills and shared vision have driven remarkable achievements. From navigating complex challenges to celebrating milestones, they share valuable insights into their teamwork and the strategies that keep their projects on track.

Here’s an in-depth look at their journey and the lessons they’ve learned along the way.

1. What brought the two of you together as a team, and how did your collaboration on these projects begin?

Risto: Our partnership began with a shared commitment to delivering exceptional results for our clients while building a strong and cohesive internal culture. My focus lies in steering the overall strategy and ensuring optimal resource allocation, while Zeljana takes charge of the detailed execution and stakeholder engagement. By combining our strengths, we’ve developed a harmonious approach that balances big-picture alignment with operational excellence, making our collaboration both efficient and impactful.

Zeljana: What initially brought us together was a major project that required a perfect fusion of strategic delivery planning and hands-on project management. It was clear from the start that our complementary skills were key to the project’s success. As we collaborated, we quickly developed mutual respect for each other’s strengths. Over time, this respect turned into a strong synergy that has become a hallmark of how we approach every challenge.

2. How do you ensure effective communication and alignment between teams and clients? Risto: Transparent communication is at the core of how we operate. We organize regular alignment meetings, both internally with our teams and externally with clients, to ensure that expectations remain clear, progress is tracked, and potential issues are identified early. To support this, we use collaborative tools that provide real-time updates and insights, fostering trust and accountability across the board.

Zeljana: I build on this by making sure every team member and stakeholder has a voice. During stand-ups and retrospectives, I encourage open dialogue to surface ideas and address concerns early. When working with clients, I prioritize relationships, fostering an environment where feedback flows naturally. This proactive approach ensures that any potential misalignments are resolved quickly, maintaining harmony and focus.

3.?What challenges have you encountered during your projects, and how did you overcome them?

Risto: A frequent challenge we encounter is adapting to evolving client demands without losing sight of the project’s scope. We tackle this by embracing an agile mindset, continuously reassessing priorities, and staying flexible while keeping the ultimate objective in focus. This approach allows us to pivot when necessary while maintaining clarity and momentum.

Zeljana: Another common challenge has been resource constraints during critical phases. To navigate these situations, we place a strong emphasis on early risk identification and mitigation. By fostering a cross-functional team culture, we’ve created an environment where people are willing to step up and adapt, ensuring that no one feels overwhelmed and that the project keeps moving forward.

4.?Can you share a defining moment in the last year that highlights your success as a team?

Risto: A defining moment for us was the successful delivery of a particularly complex, high-stakes project with a tight deadline. It demanded innovative thinking, constant communication, and an unwavering commitment from everyone involved. Seeing it through was a testament to the strength of our collaboration and the trust we’ve built within the team. Zeljana: I’ll always remember the energy and camaraderie on the night we finalized the delivery. Seeing the excitement and pride within the team, coupled with the client’s heartfelt appreciation, was unforgettable. It reaffirmed the importance of our partnership and reminded us why we strive for excellence in every project.

5.??How do you celebrate achievements and milestones within your team?

Risto: Celebrating achievements is a priority for us, as it helps boost morale and keeps the team motivated. We ensure that every milestone, big or small, is acknowledged—whether it’s through a simple shoutout in a meeting or an organized team event. Recognizing these moments not only fosters appreciation but also creates lasting memories for the team. Zeljana: In addition, we like to tailor celebrations to the team’s preferences. This might include fun virtual events, themed gatherings, or personalized “thank you” packages. These gestures, though sometimes small, make a big impact by strengthening the bond among team members and reinforcing a sense of accomplishment.