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Étienne Thobois, Chief Executive Officer of the Paris Organising Committee for the 2024 Olympic and Paralympic Games, emphasised the crucial role of self-honesty and ambition in ensuring the success of any project, regardless of its size or scope.

He highlighted that effective leadership, defined by clear and strategic decision-making, combined with an honest evaluation of a project’s value and a deep sense of pride in cultural heritage, serves as a cornerstone for achieving excellence and distinction in project delivery.

Thobois shared these perspectives during the closing session of the 10th Dubai International Project Management Forum (DIPMF), held at Madinat Jumeirah under the theme “Sustainable Future” from 13 to 16 January. The forum was held under the patronage of His Highness Sheikh Hamdan bin Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, Crown Prince of Dubai, Deputy Prime Minister, Minister of Defence, and Chairman of the Executive Council of Dubai. The session was moderated by Rosanna Lockwood, an international news anchor and specialist in business, economics, geopolitics, and sustainability.

During his address, Étienne Thobois shared the journey behind the successful organisation of the Paris 2024 Olympic and Paralympic Games. He explained how the organising teams achieved smooth coordination through consistent collaboration, and pre-event preparations as well as a clear assigning of roles, time management, and strategic planning. These measures ensured effective control throughout the project, culminating in a globally celebrated event.

Thobois identified key factors critical to the success of any project, including thorough planning, precise organisation, a clear and well-defined vision, and a commitment to excellence. He emphasised that these principles must be executed by skilled and professional teams driven by innovation, initiative, and a competitive spirit. He noted that the Paris 2024 organising team embraced these elements, leading to an event of exceptional success.

Thobois expressed his appreciation to the organisers of the Dubai International Project Management Forum for delivering an outstanding edition and creating a platform to highlight global successes like the Paris 2024 Games. He also commended Dubai’s remarkable infrastructure and the forum’s excellent organisation.