PM is charged with managing all aspects of the project. Unless he is a professional and has integrity there are many things that can go wrong. Not so truthful progress reporting will easily boomerang on the PM but the organization will have a delayed or a failed project.

Yes, professionalism and integrity are absolutely essential qualities for a project manager (PM). Here’s why:

Professionalism: A project manager needs to demonstrate professionalism in all aspects of their work. This includes maintaining a high standard of conduct, adhering to deadlines, communicating effectively, and respecting the contributions of team members. Professionalism fosters trust and confidence among stakeholders, which is crucial for successful project execution.
Integrity: Integrity is fundamental to the credibility and reputation of a project manager. It involves being honest, transparent, and ethical in all dealings related to the project. Project managers must uphold their commitments, act in the best interest of the project and its stakeholders, and make decisions based on sound moral principles. Integrity builds trust among team members, stakeholders, and clients, which is vital for collaboration and achieving project goals.

In summary, professionalism and integrity are not just desirable qualities but foundational to the effectiveness and success of a project manager. They help establish trust, maintain credibility, and ensure ethical conduct throughout the project lifecycle.