The role of project managers’ attributes in project sustainability management and project performance under China-Pakistan economic corridor

Purpose: Steered by upper echelon theory, this study aims to scrutinize the prevalence of project manager demographic factors (age, education and experience) in project sustainability management and project performance. Design/methodology/approach: We used a sample of 209 project managers/supervisor/team leaders who were working in the projects of the China-Pakistan Economic Corridor (CPEC). Findings: The results indicate that project manager demographic factors have a significant influence on project performance (except experience) and project sustainability management. Moreover, project sustainability management partially mediates the relationship between age, education and project performance while it fully mediates the path between experience and project performance. Practical implications: The research recommends senior, high educated and experienced managers for CPEC who promote sustainability and gain high project performance. Originality/value: A number of studies have been carried out to assess the relationship between top managers’ attributes and environmental activities. However, so far, none of the studies has paid attention to the CPEC and projects working in Pakistan.