A legacy of change
and innovation
CITI at 40: A Legacy of Change and Innovation
CITI has come a long way since its early days, shaping the world of project and programme management over the past four decades. Christopher’s charismatic and witty speech took us on a journey through the key moments that made CITI what it is today.
Beyond Method is learning constructed using our own best practice created from our inception as a specialist university institute; fusing the expertise of Cranfield University with the interests of six major users of change management: British Aerospace, British Gas, British Petroleum, British Telecom, Cable & Wireless and Longman.
Laying the foundations (1985 – 2004)
CITI started in 1985, born out of Cranfield Information Technology Institute with a bold ambition—to combine education, research, and consultancy to create real-world business impact. By 1990, it had launched an MSc in Business Process Management with Cranfield University and joined forces with Butler Cox Consulting group, later becoming part of CSC Index, the management consultancy arm of Computer Sciences Corporation Inc. (CSC)
During this time, CITI also kicked off an ongoing study into what makes a successful project manager, laying the groundwork for its future frameworks and methodologies.
Fast forward to the early 2000s, and CITI was shifting away from traditional classroom learning, moving towards a more strategic approach. The launch of CofEe Club created a space for executives and senior managers to exchange ideas and best practices in change management, helping to build a strong professional network.
Going global and growing influence (2005 – 2019)
The mid-2000s saw CITI expand internationally with the launch of PiCubed in South Africa, mirroring its UK approach to benefits management. During this time, the CITI Change Diamond® was introduced – a research-backed framework that, combined with its extensive expertise in delivering change across projects, programmes, and portfolios, transformed how organisations manage change.
By 2010, membership of CofEe Club exceeds the 500 mark at the time of the 20th meeting. With a limit of 50 members at each meeting, competition for places increased.
CITI had also secured its place at the heart of UK public sector project management, becoming the sole supplier of APM and Cabinet Office Best Practice PPM qualifications to the UK government through Civil Service Learning.
In 2019, a new CEO (Kay Sanders) brought a fresh focus on modernisation, leadership, and technology, setting CITI up for the next phase of its evolution.
The digital shift (2020 – 2025)
CITI’s global expansion took another leap in 2017, partnering with IQVIA across multiple continents and undertaking a long-term engagement with the Cayman Islands Government. This collaboration, which continues today, has seen CITI successfully deliver virtual classrooms, capability assessments, and eLearning assets.
With digital learning becoming the norm, CITI adapted quickly. In 2020, it refreshed its teaching materials in line with the APM Body of Knowledge 7th edition and launched CITI Virtual Learning Limited, making distance learning and exams more accessible than ever.
By 2025, CITI is still pushing boundaries. The “Partner of Choice” programme strengthens relationships with close associates, while a new digital platform enhances client and partner experiences. A major milestone came with B Corp Certification, reinforcing CITI’s commitment to social and environmental responsibility.
Looking ahead
Christopher’s engaging and humorous storytelling highlighted just how far CITI has come, making it especially inspiring for me as a new member of the team.
While the organisation has evolved, its mission remains the same – helping businesses deliver change successfully. As CITI moves into its next chapter, one thing is certain: the best is yet to come.
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