Definition of a project manager
A project manager is a professional who leads the planning, execution, monitoring, and completion of a project. They align resources, manage risks, and communicate with stakeholders to ensure objectives are achieved on time and within budget. Project managers operate across diverse industries, using structured methodologies such as waterfall and agile to deliver successful outcomes. [source]
Core responsibilities of a project manager
- Defining project scope, goals, and deliverables
- Developing a comprehensive project plan using tools like a Gantt chart
- Managing project budgets, timelines, and resources
- Identifying and managing project risks
- Coordinating tasks across cross-functional teams
- Communicating clearly with team members, stakeholders, and senior management
- Tracking progress and adjusting plans as conditions change
- Ensuring project deliverables meet quality standards
Essential project management skills
Soft skills
- Communication skills: Clear communication with stakeholders and teams is vital.
- Leadership: Inspiring and guiding team members, resolving conflicts.
- Problem-solving: Identifying solutions to project challenges.
- Time management: Prioritising tasks and managing competing deadlines.
- Negotiation: Reaching agreements with vendors and stakeholders.
Hard skills
- Risk management: Identifying, analysing, and mitigating project risks.
- Project management software: Using tools such as MS Project, Asana, or Jira.
- Budgeting: Planning and controlling project budgets.
- Methodologies: Applying agile methodology, waterfall methodology, and hybrid approaches.
- Quality management: Ensuring outputs meet required standards.
Project manager certifications and training
- PMP (Project Management Professional): Offered by the Project Management Institute (PMI), this globally recognised certification sets industry standards. Details: PMI.org
- PRINCE2 (Projects IN Controlled Environments): A UK-based certification framework widely adopted in both government and private sectors.
- Agile certifications: For those specialising in agile methodology, options include Certified ScrumMaster (CSM) and PMI-ACP (Agile Certified Practitioner).
- Many employers value a blend of practical project management experience, formal certification, and relevant degrees (such as business, engineering, or IT).
Educational path to becoming a project manager
While there is no single path, the typical journey includes:
- A university degree in business management, construction, IT, engineering, or related area.
- Entry-level project coordinator or assistant roles to gain experience with project lifecycles.
- Securing practical experience with project management software, budgeting, and stakeholder engagement.
- Gaining professional certification (such as PMP or PRINCE2) to validate skills and enhance employability.
Salary and key industries for project managers
In the UK, the average project manager salary ranges from £40,000 to £55,000, depending on experience, industry, and qualifications (Indeed). Senior project managers or those in sectors like IT and construction may earn in excess of £70,000. Project managers are essential in industries such as:
- Information Technology (IT project manager)
- Construction (construction project manager)
- Healthcare
- Engineering
- Finance
- Marketing
Project manager job titles, responsibilities & qualifications
| Job title | Core responsibilities | Typical qualifications |
|---|---|---|
| Project manager | End-to-end project delivery, team management, project plan creation | Degree, PMP/PRINCE2, experience |
| IT project manager | Software development projects, agile/waterfall management | IT degree, agile certification, technical skills |
| Construction project manager | Site management, procurement, risk and safety | Engineering/construction degree, PRINCE2 |
| Senior project manager | Multiple projects, strategic planning, stakeholder engagement | Extensive experience, advanced certifications |
Common project manager specialisations
- IT project manager: Oversees software, infrastructure, and technology-related projects using frameworks like agile methodology.
- Construction project manager: Responsible for building projects, coordinating with contractors, managing project plans, and ensuring safety compliance.
- Healthcare project manager: Leads projects in hospitals or clinical settings, focusing on quality improvement, compliance, and resource allocation.
- Engineering project manager: Manages technical teams in mechanical, electrical, or civil engineering projects.
Key differences: Project manager vs product manager vs program manager
- Project manager: Focuses on delivering a specific project.
- Product manager: Responsible for a product’s lifecycle, vision, and market success (not just individual projects).
- Program manager: Oversees a group of related projects (a program), aligning them with organisational strategy.
FAQs
What does a project manager do?
A project manager plans, organises, and oversees the delivery of projects. They define project scope, build teams, assign tasks, manage budgets, monitor timelines, assess risks, and serve as the main communication link between stakeholders and project teams.
What qualifications do you need to be a project manager?
Most project managers hold a degree in a relevant subject, hands-on experience, and professional certification such as PMP or PRINCE2. Strong leadership and communication skills are also essential.
Is project manager a good career?
Yes, project management is a rewarding career with high demand across industries, opportunity for advancement, competitive salaries, and the chance to lead meaningful initiatives.
What is the average salary of a project manager in the UK?
According to recent data, UK project managers earn on average between £40,000 and £55,000 annually, though this varies by sector, experience, and qualifications.
What is the difference between a project manager and a product manager?
A project manager delivers defined projects within specific timelines, while a product manager focuses on the long-term success and lifecycle of a product or service.