Project Manager
Job Description:Project managers are responsible for leading an entire project from initiation to completion.
Job Category:What you will do:
You could work on different types of project in almost any industry or sector like construction, IT or healthcare. You might be managing a large building development, introducing a new computer system or developing a new advertising campaign.
You’ll be:
- finding out what the client or business wants to achieve
- agreeing timescales, costs and resources
- drawing up a plan for each project stage, with clear goals
- negotiating with contractors and suppliers
- choosing and leading a project team
- checking in with team members to see how they’re getting on
- helping team members to achieve their individual tasks
- resolving any team conflict
- organising meetings and team updates
- constantly monitoring progress, quality and costs
- reporting regularly to senior managers and the client
- using specialised software and spreadsheets for planning, costing and
- analysing risks
Skills:
You’ll need:
- business management skills
- maths knowledge
- knowledge of computer operating systems, hardware and software
- to have a thorough understanding of computer systems and applications
As well as:
- leadership skills
- persistence and determination (ambition/drive)
- the ability to use your initiative
- to be thorough and pay attention to detail
- excellent verbal communication skills
- organisational skills
Entry Requirements:
To become a Project Manager, there are no specific subject requirements. However, having a strong educational foundation and developing relevant skills are essential for this role. Here are some suggested subjects and skills that can help you prepare for a career as a Project Manager:
- Mathematics: Mathematics provides essential quantitative and problem-solving skills, which are valuable for project planning, budgeting, and data analysis.
- English: Good written and verbal communication skills are crucial for effective project management, as you’ll need to interact with team members, stakeholders, and clients.
- Science or Technology: Subjects like Physics, Chemistry, or Information and Communication Technology (ICT) can help you develop analytical and technical skills relevant to certain project management roles.
- Business Studies: This subject can provide an understanding of basic business concepts, including project management principles.
Post School
Graduate traineeship
You could get into this career through a graduate traineeship, where you’ll usually start off as a Junior Project Manager. Any undergraduate degree is acceptable, although a degree in Business Studies or Project Management might give you an advantage.
If you’re considering this option, you could first take a Business Studies course at school to see whether or not it interests you.
Master’s degree
Another route is to complete bachelor’s degree in an area that interests you (if you plan on working for an I.T. company, for example, you might choose to complete a degree in I.T.) and then apply to a graduate business school to complete a Master’s degree in Project Management or something similar. Many graduate schools will require you to have a strong undergraduate degree.
Employment / Apprenticeship
You might be able to work your way up from a project support or administration role.
Many young people also get into this career through a higher apprenticeship in Project Management, lasting 2 years.
Working Hours and Environment:
You’ll spend most of your time in an office, working standard hours from Monday to Friday.
You may also spend time travelling to meetings and visiting contractors and suppliers.
Career Path & Progression:
With experience, you could move into senior management or become a freelance consultant.
In the UK, while you’re working, you could study for an industry qualification like PRINCE2 or Agile.
You could also get professional qualifications through:
- Association for Project Management (APM)
- Chartered Management Institute (CMI)
- Project Management Institute (PMI)
- If you’re working in the IT industry, you could get a certificate in project management through The Chartered Institute for IT (BCS).