President/Chief Executive Officer Candidate - Nathan Champion

 

Background:

I joined PMI-SVC in 2021 while transitioning from military service, looking for connection and community—and I found both. Earning my PMP felt like a milestone, but it was getting involved with this chapter that truly solidified my path in project leadership. My background includes 25 years in the military and current consulting work helping public and private organizations implement strategic initiatives, improve processes, and drive measurable outcomes. Along the way, I’ve learned that the best results come from strong relationships and clear purpose. I’m naturally drawn to solving problems, coaching others, and building systems that help people succeed. Volunteering with PMI-SVC has been one of the most rewarding parts of my professional life, and I’m excited about the opportunity to give back in an even greater way.

Qualifications:

If elected President of PMI-SVC, my focus for the next two years will be connection— authentic, consistent, community-driven. I believe value comes from personal relationships: connecting with members, recognizing and supporting our volunteers, and raising the PMI-SVC brand across our region.

 

I plan to personally call each Volunteer of the Quarter, hold biweekly check-ins with board members, and connect monthly with forum leaders to ensure they are supported and appreciated. I will continue growing partnerships with local businesses, government agencies, and professional organizations. I also plan to promote the good work of our chapter in professional journals, publications, and on social media—publicly recognizing the outstanding contributions of our volunteers and members.

 

As VP of Programs for the 2024–2025 term, and previously as Director of Military Outreach, I’ve led efforts that reflect this vision—hosting quarterly networking events, launching sponsorships, planning speaking events and two successful career fairs. I’ve also built partnerships with university business clubs at Sac State and UC Davis, and veteran’s groups, where we now regularly present to both students and service members.

 

With a PMP and strategic leadership experience, I’m committed to building lasting connections that strengthen our chapter and it’s value to our members

Video

https://drive.google.com/file/d/1XGObKnNT64bDY-Vq45_F4nI54Bzcnymc/view?usp=sharing

 

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Vice President of Finance Candidate - Palavalli Panduranga “Pandu” Gupta

 

Background:

I have been a Chapter Member since January 2023. I earned my Project Management Professional (PMP) certification in January 2018, which is currently valid through January 2030. My professional background spans over 24 years in the Information Technology industry, where I have been actively involved in multiple large-scale implementation projects across various sectors. Although I have not held the formal title of Project Manager, I have taken on key leadership and coordination responsibilities in several roles. These include Business Analyst, Team Lead, Development Lead, Deputy Test Manager, and Senior QA Consultant. In each of these positions, I’ve been responsible for planning, execution, risk management, stakeholder communication, and delivering outcomes aligned with project goals. My experience has given me a solid understanding of project management principles, and I continue to apply them in my daily work. I am passionate about driving team success and contributing to the overall growth of project initiatives.

Qualifications:

Since January 2023, I have served as VP of Finance for the Chapter, focusing on improving financial transparency, operational efficiency, and driving innovation. I streamlined bookkeeping activities to ensure accuracy and reduce manual work. I also developed an intuitive Expense Reimbursement App, which simplified and expedited the reimbursement process for volunteers and board members. A key initiative I led was the adoption of a PMI-SVC credit card by all board members—this centralized expense tracking and generated additional income for the Chapter through credit card rewards.

Looking ahead, my vision for the Chapter over the next two years is to build on these improvements by further enhancing operational efficiency, strengthening financial sustainability, and supporting initiatives that deliver lasting value to our members. I aim to leverage technology and data to inform decision-making and support strategic goals. With a proven record of delivering impactful results, a strong commitment to service, and a passion for continuous improvement, I am excited to contribute to the Chapter’s ongoing growth and success.

 

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Vice President of Member Relations Candidate - OA Arai

 

 

Background:

I have been a Chapter Member since 2021, starting as Director of Member Data Analytics under Adam’s leadership. In that role, I analyzed membership trends, supported outreach initiatives, and gained firsthand experience in chapter operations. This foundation helped me understand the importance of member engagement and prepared me for the responsibilities of Vice President of Member Relations. Yes, I am PMP certified. Professionally, I have over three years of project management experience in the financial services industry. I previously served as Assistant Product Manager at Tri-Counties Bank, where I led cross-functional teams to launch new features that improved customer experience. My work included competitive analysis, customer journey mapping, and stakeholder collaboration. Outside of work, I’ve led volunteer teams and improved onboarding processes to boost engagement. I’m passionate about building strong communities and creating data-driven strategies to support chapter growth and retention

Qualifications:

My vision for the Chapter over the next two years is to strengthen member engagement through inclusive, data-driven strategies that foster a sense of belonging and professional growth. I want to create more opportunities for meaningful connections. Whether it be through tailored events, improved onboarding for new members, or initiatives that spotlight member achievements and contributions. I will contribute to this vision by drawing on my experience as Director of Member Data Analytics, where I supported outreach initiatives and gained a deep understanding of our membership trends. My time in that role showed me how critical targeted communication and active listening are to a thriving chapter. As a PMP-certified professional with over three years of experience in project and product management, I’ve led cross-functional teams, improved user experience, and driven growth through customer insights. I also have experience managing volunteer teams and optimizing onboarding processes to boost retention and morale. I believe in continuously listening to members, adapting to their needs, and celebrating the diversity and strengths of our community. With your support, I will work to make our Chapter more engaging, responsive, and impactful for all members.

 

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Vice President of Programs - Jens Huelsermann

 

 

 

Background:

I am a PMP-certified senior manager with over 20 years of experience in the global rail industry, currently serving as Lead Rail Planning Advisor at DB E.C.O. North America. My background combines technical expertise in civil and systems engineering with strategic project delivery, stakeholder engagement, and team development. I’ve led complex transportation programs across Europe, Asia, and the U.S., including my current role on California’s high-speed rail project. I joined the PMI Sacramento Valley Chapter in 2023 and am eager to contribute more actively to our local project management community. Throughout my career, I’ve mentored young professionals and championed knowledge-sharing across cultural and organizational boundaries. I believe in practical, structured delivery—backed by curiosity, clarity, and collaboration.

 

Qualifications:

My vision is to position PMI Sacramento Valley as a vibrant, forward-looking hub that actively nurtures the next generation of project managers. Over the next two years, I aim to expand our academic outreach by forging strong relationships with local high schools, colleges, and universities—bringing project management into classrooms, career fairs, and mentorship programs. I want students to see PMI not as a distant professional network, but as an accessible community where they can grow, contribute, and lead.

I bring over 20 years of global project and program management experience, including mentoring emerging professionals across Asia, Europe, and North America. In my current role supporting California’s high-speed rail program, I lead large-scale planning efforts and work closely with diverse stakeholder groups. I’m known for building practical strategies and fostering high-performing teams.

Though new to the Chapter, I’ve long championed professional development initiatives and student engagement, from guest lectures to internship program design. I believe the Chapter can play a pivotal role in developing young leaders and creating long-term member value. I offer energy, structure, and a global perspective—and I’m eager to help make the Chapter more visible, more inclusive, and more inspiring to the next generation.