J. LeRoy Ward

J. LeRoy Ward, PMP, PgMP, Executive Vice President, Product Strategy & Management, ESI International, brings more than 35 years of expertise in project and programme management to the refinement of ESI’s portfolio of learning programmes. He works closely with ESI clients worldwide to guide the assessment, implementation and reinforcement of knowledge and skills that allow for the effective measurement and successful adoption of learning programme objectives.

LeRoy’s experience in a range of industries including energy, information technology, construction and government enables him to help executives communicate the business benefits of effective project management. And, his wisdom and practical experience often prove invaluable in developing governance structures, analysis of methodologies and implementation of global standards.

A dynamic and popular subject matter expert, LeRoy presents frequently on project and programme management, business analysis, and related topics at events around the world, including serving as a regular presenter at PMI® Global Congresses.

In addition to speaking, LeRoy is a respected author and media commentator, and has recently authored the Dictionary of Project Management Terms, 3rd edition as well as the PMP® Exam: Practice Test and Study Guide, 8th edition among other publications. In addition to being quoted by media outlets from the Financial Times and PM Network to NBC news, he regularly authors articles that appear in a broad range of publications including Chief Learning Officer, Project Manager Today, and Human Resources Magazine.

LeRoy actively supports the advancement of the project management and professional development professions. Currently, he is an active member of the Project Management Institute (PMI®), where he has recently distinguished himself by being one of the first 100 professionals to achieve the Programme Management Professional (PgMP®) certification. He was one of the first 500 professionals to achieve the Project Management Professional (PMP®) certification. He also is an active member of the American Society of Training and Development as well as numerous other professional organisations.

In the past, he has served as a member of the Advisory Board for the Graduate Program in Project Management at The George Washington University, as well as a member of the Editorial Board for PM Network, the premier magazine for global PM professionals. LeRoy also has been an adjunct professor at The George Washington University and The American University, both in Washington, DC.

LeRoy holds bachelor’s and master’s degrees from Southern Connecticut State University as well as a master’s degree with distinction from The American University, where he was inducted into Phi Alpha Alpha, the National Honor Society for Public Affairs and Administration. Prior to joining ESI in 1991, LeRoy held various project management-related positions with the U.S Federal government.