What does a Project Manager do?

What does a project manager do?

Understanding the role of a project manager is a good start for anyone considering a career in project management. Whether you’re new to the field or looking to progress in your career, knowing what a project manager actually does day to day can help you determine if it’s the right path for you.

A project manager is responsible for overseeing a project from start to finish. This means identifying and defining the project's goals, planning the steps to achieve them, organising resources, and managing the team that brings the project to fruition. It’s a role that requires balancing multiple tasks to ensure the project is delivered on time, within budget, and to the standards of the stakeholders.

From planning to delivery, their role is both strategic and hands-on. If you already have some experience, obtaining a PMP qualification can boost your effectiveness and career progression.

Planning and organisation

The first task of a project manager is to create a detailed plan. This involves outlining the project's objectives, setting a timeline, and determining what resources are needed. Effective planning is critical, as it provides the game plan for the entire project. Project management courses focus heavily on these skills, ensuring you can lay a solid foundation for any project.

Team coordination

Project management is all about teamwork. A project manager must communicate effectively with team members and clients. This includes delegating tasks, resolving conflicts, and keeping everyone aligned with the project’s objectives. If you’re aiming for a role that requires strong coordination skills, Agile project management training can be particularly useful, as it focuses on team collaboration and flexibility.

Risk management

Every project comes with risks, and it’s the project manager’s job to foresee and mitigate them. This involves conducting risk assessments and developing strategies to deal with potential issues before they arise. Advanced project management skills are essential for this part of the role.

Monitoring and control

Once the project is underway, the project manager needs to monitor progress and make adjustments as necessary. This includes tracking milestones, managing the budget, and ensuring resources are used efficiently. Training for a PMP certification can equip you with the tools and techniques needed to manage this phase effectively.

Closing and evaluation

At the end of the project, the project manager ensures everything is completed as planned. This involves reviewing the final product, obtaining approval from stakeholders, and evaluating the project’s overall success. These final steps are crucial for learning and improving future projects.

Gaining the right skills and qualifications

If you’re looking to enter project management or enhance your career, investing in project manager training or exploring online project management programmes is a wise choice. These courses provide a comprehensive understanding of different methodologies and best practices, giving you the skills to succeed. With the right education and certifications, you’ll be well-equipped to take on the challenges of a project manager role.

With more businesses prioritising project delivery, PMP jobs are on the rise. Companies across sectors are partnering with recruitment agencies to find certified talent. This demand is especially noticeable in roles involving digital transformation and remote team leadership. 

Although experience is valuable, employers increasingly favour formal qualifications. Debates like PMP certification vs PRINCE2 are common, but many professionals pursue both to strengthen their CV. A certified Project Manager is seen as someone who’s not just capable, but committed to excellence.

The role of a project manager is diverse, requiring a blend of planning, coordination, risk management, and evaluation skills. By pursuing the best project management courses and obtaining the necessary qualifications, you can build a successful and rewarding career in this dynamic field.

Ready to take the first step toward mastering the art of project management? Explore our range of project management courses today and equip yourself with the skills and certifications needed to excel in your chosen career.