Project manager

A project manager is responsible for ownership of the project management plan (PMP), which provides the framework for delivering a project. 

They need to ensure that projects have an agreed timeframe, budget, and defined quality metrics, which are then reviewed at regular intervals. 

As the spearhead for the project itself, the project manager is responsible for delegating tasks, and creating team cohesion. 

They will need to manage stakeholder relations throughout the project, review priorities and expectations, and maintain the morale and motivation of the project team. 

These are some of the key traits that make a great project manager: 

• Interpersonal skills: project managers need to be able to engage both their team and a wide range of stakeholders. 
• Communication: Setting expectations and keeping relevant stakeholders in the loop are both key skills for project managers. 
• Adaptability: Project managers need to be prepared for various curve balls, whether it's changes in market demand, competitor activity or unforeseen challenges within the project. 
• Leadership: While project managers need to be across the details of their project, they also need to create a high performing team. Strong emotional intelligence and motivational skills therefore can define how good of a project manager someone is. 
• Commercial awareness: Alongside people skills, project managers need to be aware of the budgetary and commercial requirements of the project. This is particularly important for dealing with key stakeholders, such as the project sponsor.