Biography:

Dr. Pitchiah “Dr. Pitch” Balasubramanian is a seasoned business technology leader with over 34 years of leadership experience across industries, including IT, healthcare, and consulting. He currently serves as Treasurer/CFO (2nd term) and Board Chair-Elect for 2025 at the PMI Phoenix Chapter. A proud PMI member since 1999, he celebrated 25 years of service in 2024.

Dr. Pitch holds several professional certifications, including PMP, PgMP, PMO-CP, and ITIL, reflecting his deep expertise in project, program, and portfolio management. His commitment to the profession is evident in his decades of volunteer leadership across PMI chapters nationwide, including Great Lakes, Pittsburgh, Chicagoland, and Phoenix.

A passionate advocate for lifelong learning, Dr. Pitch mentors high school students in STEM-based robotics competitions and teaches business, IT, and project management courses at the university level. He is also a frequent speaker at conferences across local, national, and international platforms. His key topics include AI and the future of work, sustainable project management, strategic leadership, and design thinking.

Known for his engaging and insightful presentations, Dr. Pitch brings energy, clarity, and real-world relevance to every discussion, inspiring the next generation of leaders and changemakers.

Current PMI Chapter Volunteer Position Held (if any):
PMI Phoenix Treasurer / Board Chair-Elect

Why are you running for the Board? 
I am honored to run for the Board Director position for the PMI Arizona Chapter. As a seasoned business technology leader with over 34 years of cross-industry leadership experience in manufacturing, transportation, banking financial services and insurance, hospitality and IT consulting, I bring both strategic vision and a deep commitment to service.

A proud PMI member since 1999, I celebrated my 25th anniversary in 2024 and have served in numerous volunteer and leadership roles across PMI Global and Local Chapters, including Great Lakes, Pittsburgh, Chicagoland, and Phoenix. Over more than two decades, I have contributed as a volunteer, manager, director, vice president, and board member—driving initiatives across membership, volunteer engagement, professional development, academic, corporate and community outreach, administration and operations, technology, and finance. These efforts have helped chapters earn multiple awards, including Chapter of the Year.

Currently serving my second term as Treasurer/CFO and Board Chair-Elect for 2025 at PMI Phoenix, I have led impactful transformation efforts, including revamping QuickBooks, implementing a real-time digital dashboard, and realigning investments to achieve a six-fold increase in interest income.

Beyond PMI, I actively engage in community service through mentoring in local school summer reading clubs, coordinating children’s museum science fairs, and volunteering in charity events.

With a passion for giving back to both the profession and the community, I am eager to continue contributing as the chapter embarks on its new journey as PMI Arizona. Together, we can strengthen our chapter’s value, expand our reach, and inspire the next generation of project professionals

What specific personal talents, skills, or experience will you bring to the PMI Arizona Chapter?
Strategic Leadership & Governance – Over three decades of cross-industry leadership experience guiding strategy, governance, and chapter operations to drive sustainable growth and member value. Financial Management & Operational Excellence – Proven expertise in budgeting, investment strategy, and financial optimization, including modernizing financial systems, implementing real-time dashboards, and achieving significant returns on investments. Membership & Volunteer Engagement – Skilled in growing membership, enhancing volunteer participation, and building inclusive, high-performing volunteer teams across multiple PMI chapters. Professional Development & Program Delivery – Extensive experience in designing and delivering training, workshops, and learning programs aligned with industry trends, including green project management, AI, and strategic leadership. Outreach & Partnerships – Strong track record in academic, corporate, and community outreach, fostering partnerships to expand chapter impact and visibility. Technology & Innovation – Proficient in implementing technology solutions to improve operational efficiency, event management, and member engagement. Community Engagement & Service – Passionate about mentoring students, supporting STEM initiatives, and leading community-focused volunteer activities.

How do you envision the new AZ Chapter fostering inclusivity and delivering meaningful value to all members?
I envision the new PMI Arizona Chapter as a vibrant, inclusive community where every member—regardless of background, career stage, or industry—feels welcomed, valued, and empowered to grow. Drawing on my experience across DEI, and various functional leadership role across different chapters, I will champion initiatives that provide tangible value and foster a strong sense of belonging.

Inclusivity starts with intentional outreach—expanding engagement to underserved communities, academia, and diverse industry sectors, while creating volunteer pathways for both seasoned professionals and emerging leaders. Through targeted professional development programs, we can offer relevant learning opportunities, from foundational skills to cutting-edge topics like AI, sustainability, and strategic leadership.

Leveraging technology, we can enhance accessibility to events, resources, and networking opportunities—ensuring value reaches members across Arizona including all branches, not just in greater Phoenix areas. Financial stewardship will enable us to reinvest in programs that directly benefit members, from scholarships to career advancement initiatives.

By building partnerships with corporations, academic institutions, and community organizations, we can expand resources and opportunities for our members while showcasing the value of the profession. My goal is to help shape a chapter culture where inclusivity, engagement, and professional growth go hand in hand.