Different Types of Project Managers: A Complete Guide

Project Management is an exciting and diverse arena, teeming with various Project Manager roles tailored to distinct industries, methodologies, and skill sets. Types of Project Manager is dynamic, adapting to the unique demands and hurdles of each project.

Whether you’re just starting out or have years of experience, getting to grips with the different Project Management positions is crucial. In this blog, we will explore the myriad Types of Project Managers—from those steering marketing campaigns to the ones orchestrating architectural marvels. Plus, we’ll give you a snapshot of their responsibilities, hallmark qualities, and typical industries they thrive in. Ready to dive in? Let’s get started and uncover more!

Table of content  

1) Who is the Project Manager?  

2) What Does a Project Manager Actually Do? 

3) Types of Project Managers

        a) Project Manager in the marketing field

        b) Project Manager in the architectural sector

        c) Manager of construction projects

        d) Project Manager for electrical projects

        e) Project Manager for systems

        f) IT Project Manager

        g) Engineering Project Manager

       h) Manager in a Project Management Office (PMO)

       i) Project Manager for Application Extender projects

       j) Senior Project Manager

4) Conclusion

Who is the Project Manager?

A Project Manager leads and completes projects within the scope, time, and budget constraints in Project Management. Their responsibilities include coordinating with teams, setting goals, managing stakeholders, and overseeing project outcomes. They are also responsible for the project’s success or failure, whether launching a new product, building a structure, developing software, or running a marketing campaign.

The Project Manager holds the project together and influence the project’s performance and quality. Without a Project Manager, communication and collaboration among the departments would break down, and the project would fall apart. Therefore, it’s important to understand a Project Manager's mindset, skills, and attributes and how they affect the work and productivity of everyone involved.
 

What Does a Project Manager Actually Do?

A Project Manager is the strategic leader who plans, executes, and finalises projects according to strict deadlines and within budget, ensuring the achievement of project objectives. They oversee the following tasks during the lifespan of a project:

1) Establishing the project’s scope: A Project Manager defines the boundaries and deliverables of the project. They ensures clarity and alignment with business objectives. This involves setting clear goals, deliverables, and success criteria.

2) Keeping to the schedule: They are responsible for creating a detailed project timeline and ensuring that the project stays on track. This includes managing deadlines and coordinating tasks to prevent delays.

3) Evaluating the cost of a project and keeping to a budget: Project Managers forecast the financial resources required for the project and manage the budget throughout its lifecycle, making sure that spending aligns with the initial estimates.

4) Project Resource Management (Including Teams and Employees): They oversee the allocation and utilisation of resources, including personnel, tools, and materials, to maximise efficiency and productivity.

5) Keeping track of the project’s progress: Monitoring the project’s advancement is key. Project Managers use various tools and methodologies to track progress and compare it against the plan.

6) Interaction with stakeholders: They maintain open lines of communication with all stakeholders, providing updates, gathering feedback, and adjusting project plans as necessary to meet stakeholder needs and expectations.

7) Identifying hazards: Risk identification and management are critical. Project Managers proactively pinpoint potential risks and develop strategies to mitigate them, ensuring the project’s smooth progression.

8) Troubleshooting: When issues arise, Project Managers are the first line of defence. They solve problems quickly and efficiently, often having to think on their feet to keep the project moving forward.

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Types of Project Manager 

There are various Types of Project Managers, each specialising in different areas and industries. Here's an overview of some common Types of Project Managers:

Project Manager in the marketing field  

This Type of Project Manager specialises in overseeing marketing campaigns and initiatives. They are responsible for defining project objectives and creating marketing plans. They manage teams and ensure that marketing efforts are executed efficiently and effectively. Marketing Field Project Managers focus is on achieving marketing goals while staying within budget and meeting deadlines. 

Average Income: £54,427

Project Manager in the architectural sector  

 Project Managers in the architectural sector are responsible for managing architectural design and construction projects. They ensure that projects meet architectural specifications, comply with building codes and regulations, and are completed on time and within budget. They coordinate design teams, Contractors, and other stakeholders involved in the construction process. 

Average Income: £104,677

Manager of construction projects

Construction Project Managers supervise the planning, execution, and completion of construction projects.  They allocate and manage resources, maintain safety on construction sites, and ensure that the project adheres to building codes and quality standards. They play an important role in coordinating different construction phases and resolving possible issues. 

Average Income: £51,457

Project Manager for electrical projects

These Project Managers lead projects related to electrical engineering. This can include tasks like designing and implementing electrical systems, assuring compliance with electrical codes, and managing electrical engineering teams. They are also responsible for installing, testing, and maintaining electrical systems.

Average Income: £54,784

Project Manager for systems 

System Project Managers handle projects related to system integration, such as the implementation of software or hardware systems. They define project requirements, collaborate with development and IT teams, oversee testing and validation, and ensure system security, performance, and scalability. They troubleshoot technical issues and coordinate updates as needed.

Average Income: £63,862

IT Project Manager 

IT Project Managers specialise in managing Information Technology projects. This ranges from Software Development to network infrastructure deployments. They define project objectives and requirements, allocate IT resources, create project schedules and budgets, and ensure the security and compliance of IT projects. They are also responsible for addressing IT-related issues and providing technical solutions.

Average Income: £63,862

Engineering Project Manager  

These Project Managers oversee engineering projects, which can include product development, infrastructure projects, and process optimisation. They develop project plans that encompassing design, testing, and implementation phases. These professionals also manage engineering teams and ensure product quality, safety, and regulatory compliance. They also address engineering challenges and process improvements.

Average Income: £65,949

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Manager in a Project Management Office (PMO) 

PMO Managers are responsible for developing and maintaining Project Management standards and best practices within an organisation. They oversee a portfolio of projects, monitor project performance, and provide guidance to Project Managers. Furthermore, PMO Managers develop Project Management methodologies and tools and streamline project communication and reporting. They also evaluate project risks and propose mitigation strategies.

Average Income: £54,777

Project Manager for Application Extender (AX) Projects  

Project Managers specialise in managing projects related to implementing and customising Application Extenders. They define project requirements and collaborate with Software Developers and Business Analysts. By overseeing testing and validation, they ensure seamless integration with existing systems and provide support and training to end-users.

Average Income: £52,064

Senior Project Manager 

Senior Project Managers lead complex and large-scale projects or multiple projects simultaneously. They provide strategic direction and leadership to project teams and manage high-level stakeholder relationships and client interactions. They also develop and implement organisational Project Management strategies, and mentor and guide Junior Project Managers. 

In addition, they take overall responsibility for project success, including Risk Management and conflict resolution. Their role is typically more strategic and encompasses a wider range of responsibilities than other Project Managers.

Average Income: £72,347

                                                    Source: Glassdoor

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Conclusion 

In this blog, we have provided insights into Types of Project Managers, shedding light on their roles and responsibilities. The field of Project Management is incredibly diverse, with various Types of Project Managers who specialise in different industries and project types. Each Type of Project Manager plays a unique and essential role, tailored to the specific needs and challenges of their respective domains.

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