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Project Manager

Project managers manage projects for one or more organisations, usually with the purpose of initiating or improving an aspect of business. Responsibilities are broad and include managing the strategic, financial, operational and technological implications of the project to ensure a successful outcome.

 

Tasks & duties

Project managers may do some or all of the following:

  • achieve project goals on time and to the required standard
  • manage the project team to ensure group and individual performance criteria are met
  • maintain an accurate and up-to-date project plan 
  • manage the project budget 
  • manage resources, such as staff, and risks and issues
  • communicate with stakeholders and ensure project team members develop a relationship with stakeholders
  • ensure suppliers deliver the products and/or services requested
  • ensure that all project documentation, such as the issues and risks register, is kept up to date
  • hire staff to work on the project

 

Skills & knowledge

Project managers need to have:

  • knowledge of project management methodology
  • skill in developing, piloting and implementing new business processes
  • an understanding of the strategic direction, structure and issues affecting the organisation they work for
  • the ability to identify risks and issues that could affect the project, and put in place effective solutions
  • excellent planning and organisational skills
  • ability to manage a team
  • leadership skills
  • negotiation skills
  • excellent communication skills
  • writing and presentation skills
  • basic computer skills, including the ability to use project management software tools

 

Entry requirements

There are no specific entry requirements to become a project manager. However, some employers prefer you to have a diploma or degree in project management. A degree in business and/or management may also be useful.

For project managers working in a specialised area, such as information technology (IT), it is preferred if they have qualifications in their field.

 

Secondary education

A tertiary entrance qualification is required to enter further study. Useful subjects include English, maths and computer studies.

 

Training on the job

Some skills are gained on the job. Project managers may attend conferences to keep up to date with their subject field and share information with other project managers.

 

Registration

Some employers prefer their project managers to be registered with an international professional project management organisation.

 

Useful experience

Useful experience for project managers includes:

  • work in a project team
  • work in an area of specialisation such as IT
  • business and management experience

 

Related courses

Building Construction Management
Business Management
Project Management

 

For more information, please refer to myfuture.

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