APM approved route to chartership for Atkins’ project managers

Atkins, a member of the SNC-Lavalin group, and an APM corporate partner, has become the first consultancy to achieve APM recognised assessment for its route to Chartership, with the development of its Atkins Certified Project Professional (ACPP) standard.

Recognising the value of professional project management accreditation for personal and professional development, and in the services it provides to its clients, Atkins is now enabling its project managers to work towards becoming a Chartered Project Professional (ChPP) through a two-track support approach: the company is both a Recognised Assessment provider for Route 2 Chartership applications, for those who successfully achieve the Atkins Certified Project Professional (ACPP) standard; while also continuing to support those applying directly via Route 3 to APM.

Atkins’ Delivery Director, Paul Johnson, who is the driving force leading the APM-approved route, said: “That Atkins is the first consultancy to have achieved this route to professional project management accreditation is a testament to the focus we have on the development of our people. We are building a cadre of like-minded professionals focused on developing the profession through Atkins’ people, tools and processes, and on acting as role models for those new to the profession.”

Paul added: “I’m passionate about developing the next generation of project professionals and creating a continuous improvement environment, so gaining this accreditation makes me hugely proud. Within the consultancy space, it gives us a unique selling point, and demonstrates both the benchmark we work to, and the level of talent we are aiming to attract to join us.”

Atkins Principal Consultant, Mike Hooper, led the development of the ACPP certification process and its formal recognition by the APM, and is now the ACPP Lead Assessor. Describing the role of chartership in enabling businesses and individuals to demonstrate their professional commitment to raising standards of knowledge and technical competency, he said: “Atkins is committed to furthering the project profession, in partnership with the APM. We are a corporate member of the APM, with a number of our staff volunteering for the organisation. The increasing number of Chartered professionals within the business reflects our great reputation for professionalism and reliable delivery, and assures our clients that we will continue to live up to our reputation and develop beyond it.”

A member of the recent Atkins’ cohort to gain ACPP accreditation, Business Consultant Julie Sobers has 15 years’ experience of delivering multi-million pound complex projects, programmes and portfolios across a range of sectors. Julie discussed why she chose to gain chartered status: “To have chartered status through Atkins’ recognised assessment scheme as a project professional is significant. It is a badge of recognition, not just within Atkins and my clients, but one that is identifiable across sectors and other chartered bodies.”

Describing her experience, Julie said: “I found the framework process for the ACPP journey very well structured and coordinated, with clear guidance and support all the way through. Being part of a cohort with access to mentors was very beneficial – it helped challenge my thinking, and we were able to share experiences and support each other.” She also found the assessment process enjoyable, saying: “The interview was very positive and well facilitated: I enjoyed the thought-provoking discussions that enabled me to fully demonstrate my experience and application of knowledge.”

Principal Consultant, Dawn Anstey, also achieved ACPP accreditation recently. Dawn’s ACPP journey enabled her to consolidate her knowledge and experience, including 16 years at Atkins, and to document her career journey and achievements. Dawn said: “It was a detailed process, requiring a lot of commitment, but it was well worth it. It allowed me to achieve chartership – something I have wanted to gain for some time – with the right direction and support. Chartered status demonstrates that you are recognised as an accomplished and certified project professional.”

Mike concluded: “Atkins is proud to have achieved Recognised Assessment for its ACPP standard, and we look forward to many more of our people achieving Chartership with the APM though this route.”

Rebecca Fox, Director of Membership and Business Development Membership at APM says, “We are delighted to see Atkins as a valued corporate partner, committed to the development of its people through its recognised assessment routes to Chartership.  It’s vital that we continue to see increased professionalism within the project profession, and growing numbers of Chartered Project Professionals in the workplace. Atkins is putting this into practise by giving its project managers the opportunity to develop themselves professionally, and we would urge other companies to consider applying to APM’s Recognised Assessment Scheme.”