I joined a project that had failed for six years; not because it was impossible, but because it lacked structure and change leadership.
How She Navigated Leadership During Uncertainty
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I recognized my expertise when I stopped viewing my work as "just project management" and saw my real value in bringing structure and trust to complex environments.
Dr. Denise Meyer, Ed.D., MBA, MPM, MHRM, PMP · In Her Own Words
From How She Did It
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Her Story
About Denise
Dr. Denise Meyer, Ed.D., MBA, MPM, MHRM, PMP, is a senior enterprise transformation executive and organizational change leader with over 20 years of experience guiding enterprise technology transformations, building PMO structures, and leading cross-functional programs across healthcare, higher education, and consulting sectors. As the founder of Denise Meyer Consulting, Designs, and Project Solutions, she combines strategic vision with operational excellence to deliver sustainable outcomes that benefit people, systems, and institutions. Her expertise spans program management, organizational strategy, stakeholder alignment, and continuous improvement, with a focus on equity-informed leadership and innovation. Dr. Meyer earned her Doctor of Education (Ed.D.) in Organizational Change and Leadership from the University of Southern California, where her research examined the systemic and environmental factors contributing to the underrepresentation of women leaders in the male-dominated IT sector. She also earned an MBA, a Master of Project Management, and a Master of Human Resource Management, and is a certified Project Management Professional (PMP). Throughout her career, she has led high-impact initiatives, including a $50 million ERP transformation and the accelerated recovery of a critical applicant tracking system for a leading healthcare organization. Her global perspective was shaped early in her career through international teaching experience in Slovakia, strengthening her cross-cultural leadership and communication capabilities. Passionate about education, technology, and leadership development, Dr. Meyer continues to share her expertise as a program director, organizational change leader, and consultant. She has a deep interest in AI and enjoys mentoring others in its applications, particularly in healthcare and education. An avid traveler, she has explored all seven continents, bringing a global perspective to her work.
Her Interview
Ten minutes with Denise
01What do you attribute your success to?
I attribute my success to sustained self-motivation, a strong commitment to continuous learning, and disciplined dedication to the organizations and clients I serve. I have built trust through integrity, accountability, and consistent execution, while actively seeking diverse perspectives and embracing change. My leadership is grounded in inclusive excellence, with a belief that diversity of thought and experience is essential to sound decision-making, innovation, and long-term organizational performance.
02What’s the best career advice you’ve ever received?
The best career advice I received came early from my parents, who owned a business and led by example. I learned that effective leaders never ask others to do work they are unwilling to do themselves, and that respect and dignity are non-negotiable. That principle has guided my career and reinforced that trust, credibility, and influence are earned through integrity, consistency, and a genuine commitment to the people behind the work.
03What advice would you give to young women entering your industry?
Be intentional about your education, your credibility, and your voice. Invest continuously in learning, seek out environments and leaders who value both excellence and integrity, and do not underestimate the power of preparation. Build trust through consistent performance, advocate for yourself with confidence, and surround yourself with diverse perspectives. Most importantly, remain grounded in your values—your integrity and commitment to inclusive excellence will sustain your influence over the long term.
04What are the biggest challenges or opportunities in your field right now?
The biggest challenges in IT leadership stem from systemic and organizational biases, gender norms that undervalue women’s expertise, and structural barriers to advancement. Yet these challenges also create opportunities: implementing inclusive policies, fostering strong mentorship and sponsorship networks, supporting work‑life integration, and addressing intersectional experiences—all of which can accelerate gender equity and empower the next generation of women leaders in technology.
05What values are most important to you in your work and personal life?
Integrity, growth, and impact guide both my work and personal life. Integrity ensures honesty and accountability. Growth drives me to learn continuously and support others in reaching their potential. Impact keeps me focused on creating meaningful change—empowering teams, advancing goals, and positively influencing lives. These values define how I lead, live, and leave a lasting mark.
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