Introductions: James Butler IT Proj Mgr from Auckland, NZ

My name is [b]James Butler[/b]; we emigrated from the UK in 1995 looking for a better lifestyle and have found it “down under” here in New Zealand. I’m married to a gorgeous Welsh lass and have 2.0 dogs (Josh & Milo)

I’ve been working in the I.T. sphere for a major New Zealand Bank for the past 6 years and in that time have moved up from an Analyst Programmer to Project Manager, and aiming at being PMI qualified within the next 3 years (currently studying for CAPM).

My main aim is to glean knowledge of AGILE / PRINCE / PMI methodologies over the next 5 years so that I can use the most appropriate toolsets over future projects to reach successful outcomes. I aim to become a portfolio manager in due course and be a mentor to other up and coming PM's.

Project Management is 9/10ths communication, and as such a network like this is a prime tool to push the bounds when it comes to increasing my own personal efficiency. Reading the posts here I feel that I’ve grounded myself quite nicely in a collection of like minded individuals that want to take management to the next level. This will, in turn enable me to bring my designated projects to great conclusions.

Since being “broadband enabled, a couple of months ago, I’ve subscribed to a number of podcasts, all of which must be applauded for the knowledge that they impart to others.

Best ones I’m listening to at the moment, in ranked order are;
1. "Manager Tools - Members-Only"
2. "Controlling Chaos"
3. "Motivation to Move"
4. "David Maister's Business Masterclass"
5. "The Project Management Podcast"
6. "Lean Agile Straight Talk podcast"
7. "Shaw Project Management"
8. "The PMO Podcast™"
9. "My Thought Coach"

[b]Mike & Mark[/b]…. Your podcasts knocks [u]socks off the others[/u], keep up the great work, I’m spreading the word in my network of people down here in Auckland and have got a number of PM’s & Management types within the Bank hooked.

The single feed certainly makes life easier