A Spotlight on POI’s Own Stephen Ko: Furniture Project Manager
At POI, success is built on teamwork and precise project management. Stephen Ko, our Furniture Project Manager, is one of the masterminds behind ensuring every project runs smoothly, from start to finish. His role is a delicate balance of coordination, problem-solving, and leadership. With a calm demeanor and a focus on details, Stephen keeps things moving, ensuring that no matter how complex a project may be, it gets delivered on time and to the highest standards.
Stephen’s day-to-day revolves around making sure that all the moving parts of a project come together perfectly. “I help our team succeed by ensuring the right people have the right information at the right time,” he explains. But it doesn’t stop there—Stephen is also responsible for minimizing the effects of any problems that arise along the way. Whether it’s adjusting schedules, reworking plans, or solving last-minute issues, his role is all about maintaining balance. For Stephen, the challenge is juggling multiple channels of information and constantly staying ahead of any potential issues.
Over the years, Stephen’s role has evolved from a project coordinator to a trusted leader. “I’ve taken on a lot more responsibility,” he says. He no longer just supports the team during installations; now, he engages meaningfully with clients, providing input to proactively solve problems before they escalate. Stephen has become the go-to person for managing the complexities of each project, and his ability to anticipate needs and address challenges has made him invaluable to the team.
While project management is often seen as a logistical role, Stephen emphasizes that it’s also about people. His passion for his work comes from seeing both internal and external teams grow and succeed. “I’m passionate about people,” he says. “I love seeing the team come together to deliver something great.” It’s this people-first mindset that has allowed Stephen to excel in his role, ensuring that every project is not just completed but completed with a collaborative spirit.
If Stephen could give advice to his younger self, it would be to embrace the inevitable challenges that come with the job. “Problems will always arise during projects,” he says. “The key is to address them proactively and keep a level head.” He’s also learned the importance of surrounding himself with a strong team of collaborators. In Stephen’s world, no one person can handle everything on their own, success is always a group effort.
Looking toward the future, Stephen sees the landscape of project management shifting. As the industry moves toward more cross-functional projects involving A/V, construction solutions, and facilities management, he knows his role will need to evolve too. “I’m broadening my scope and communication strategies to keep up with these changes,” he says. His focus is on ensuring that POI continues to deliver seamless, cohesive messaging to clients as the industry’s demands grow more complex.