The PMI Thailand Chapter proudly presents the journey of Paul Cook, a seasoned professional whose passion for learning and dedication to excellence exemplify the true spirit of project management.
A Dynamic Professional
Paul Alistair Cook, PMP®, is the Business Development Director for Progesys Inc. in Southeast Asia, where he combines technical expertise, strategic foresight, and a passion for people to drive successful project outcomes. Trained initially as an Electrical Engineer, Paul’s career spans diverse industries—from electronics and oil & gas to project management consultancy—showcasing his adaptability and relentless pursuit of professional growth.
After working in the electronic manufacturing sector and later managing service operations in the oil industry, Paul faced a pivotal career moment in 2015 during the global downturn in oil. Rather than be discouraged, he embraced this challenge as an opportunity to reinvent himself—a decision that would lead him to the world of project management.
Discovering PMI and the PMP® Certification
Paul’s first steps into project management began after he joined Progesys in 2016. Based in Bangkok and new to the field, he often found himself struggling to articulate the value of the services his company offered. With no formal training available in-house, he took matters into his own hands and discovered the PMI Thailand Chapter.
Attending monthly events and engaging with local professionals opened Paul’s eyes to the powerful tools and frameworks offered by PMI. It was during one of these events that he learned about the PMP® certification. Intrigued by its rigor and relevance, he reached out to Dr. Petros Rigas of Project Victor to discuss the certification journey and what it would take to succeed.
With encouragement and a clear plan from Dr. Petros, Paul committed himself to a disciplined study regimen, utilizing the comprehensive materials provided by Project Victor (a PMI Authorized Training Partner in Thailand). He carried the two large study folders everywhere—from business trips to family holidays—and studied every single day. During flights, he used a PMP app on his phone to practice questions, reinforcing his learning at every opportunity.
After 10 months of focused preparation, Paul sat for the PMP exam in Bangkok on January 10, 2020, and passed on his first attempt.
“To be honest, I was quite emotional leaving the examination center. All the hard work and sacrifice had paid off.”
Since then, Paul has remained actively engaged with PMI and continued his learning through additional courses offered by Project Victor, including weekend classes in finance and contractual management.
Applying PMI Knowledge: From Vision to Execution
Now a confident leader in the project management consultancy space, Paul draws directly from the PMBOK® Guide and PMP practices in his daily work. Whether discussing Project Execution Plans, Commissioning Planning, or Operational Readiness, he uses PMI principles to communicate complex ideas, optimize client outcomes, and guide multidisciplinary teams across Southeast Asia.
Key tools and concepts that shape his practice include:
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Work Breakdown Structures (WBS): Helping clients manage large-scale projects in manageable, actionable components.
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Project Execution Strategies: Ensuring alignment from initiation to completion.
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Risk Management: Facilitating early detection and resolution of challenges.
Paul also embraces innovative practices, integrating AI tools to research clients, craft presentations, and provide bespoke solutions that position Progesys ahead of the competition.
“Communication is the response you get,” Paul says, reflecting his belief that clear, purposeful dialogue is at the heart of project success.
A Passion for Growth
Beyond certifications and strategy, Paul is a lifelong learner, avid reader, and passionate contributor to industry events. He often speaks at trade shows and conferences, sharing his expertise on project execution and championing the role of project management in transforming business outcomes.
“Fail to plan, then you’d better plan to fail.” – one of the guiding principles Paul lives by.
Inspiration for the Community
Paul’s journey is one of transformation, commitment, and vision. From an engineer seeking new purpose to a PMP-certified leader shaping industrial projects across Asia, his story reminds us that the power to grow lies in our hands—and that the PMI Thailand Chapter is here to support that growth.
Share Your Story with Us
At PMI Thailand Chapter, we celebrate professionals like Paul Cook who exemplify the best of what project management can offer. If you have a story of growth, achievement, or transformation through PMI, we invite you to share it with us.
📩 Submit your story at info@pmithai.org and let your journey inspire others!
Together, let’s continue to learn, grow, and lead the way in project management.