“Being Chartered is a hallmark of competency and integrity”

After Michael Hermin CMgr FCMI gains a new qualification, learns a new skill or completes a project, he can’t really stop. 

“I have the drive to do more, to keep adding value to my role and the organisation,” he says. “My wife jokes that the qualifications are just me collecting paperwork!”

As well as achieving Chartered Manager status earlier this year, Michael has completed a Postgraduate Certificate in Sustainability Practice to complement his other academic achievements and membership of professional bodies, of which CMI is only one.

Working under pressure

“I enjoy the structure of projects,” says Michael. “They have a clear beginning, middle and end. Working like this is transactional and I like that. It’s like a check-box. You think, ‘OK, what’s next? What’s the next challenge?’”

However, since becoming Chartered, Michael, who is on the autism spectrum, has become more transformational and strategic, rather than purely transactional and project-oriented. 

“I prefer environments where success is not necessarily guaranteed, so the pressure is on and that excites me. I like using my skills and knowledge to really make a difference. Working on projects which don’t necessarily remunerate well, but are mentally stimulating and challenging, is my passion.”