An Accidental Project Manager

A Portfolio Life

What happens when a career takes you in directions you never planned?

Not every career follows a straight line. Sometimes, the most valuable lessons come from unexpected opportunities, unfamiliar challenges and the people we meet along the way.

In An Accidental Project Manager: A Portfolio Life, Eric Mowbray reflects on a working life shaped by change, experience and the many turns that come with working across different industries, cultures and projects. His journey offers a candid look at what it means to take on responsibility, adapt to new circumstances and find your feet when the path ahead is not always clear.

Drawing on experiences from overseas assignments, major projects and the personal relationships that shape our lives, Eric explores the realities of professional life beyond job titles and carefully planned career paths. His story highlights the importance of practical judgement, communication, resilience and understanding people, particularly when the challenges are as much about relationships as they are about getting the job done.

This is not simply a book about project management. It is a reflection on a portfolio life, built through a variety of roles, experiences and lessons that cannot always be learnt in a classroom. It offers insights for those navigating their own careers, working with diverse teams or wondering where an unexpected opportunity might lead.

Whether you are an experienced project manager, a professional finding your way through a changing career, or someone interested in the people and experiences behind major projects, Eric’s story offers an engaging perspective on work, life and the value of learning as you go.

Because sometimes, the career you never planned becomes the one that teaches you the most.