The Power of Partnership: How Perkins&Will Project Managers Build Trust, Balance, and Better Design with Koko Nomura and Nirmala Srinivasa

What makes a strong project management partnership—and how does it transform the way design projects unfold? In this episode of I Hear Design, host Robert Nieminen speaks with Koko Nomura and Nirmala Srinivasa, senior project managers at Perkins&Will, about their unique collaborative dynamic.

From navigating cultural and generational differences to leading teams through conflict with grace, Koko and Nirmala unpack how their complementary strengths create a “work marriage” that benefits colleagues, clients, and the design process itself. They also explore the evolving role of project managers, common misconceptions about the profession, and the importance of modeling open communication for younger staff.

Listeners will come away with practical strategies for:

• Building trust and respect among diverse project teams
• Embracing “creative abrasion” as a driver of innovation
• Leading by example to foster collaboration across generations
• Navigating conflict with empathy and resilience

Whether you’re managing projects, leading teams, or simply curious about the human side of design leadership, this episode offers a candid look at how partnership can elevate both process and product.