A project manager is responsible for overseeing and delivering projects within a set timeframe and budget. This role involves planning the project, organising resources, managing a team, and communicating with stakeholders to ensure everything stays on track. Project managers often work in fields like construction, information technology, healthcare, and engineering. They use tools and techniques to monitor progress and deal with risks or issues that may arise. Good communication, organisation, and leadership skills are vital, as well as the ability to problem-solve and adapt to changing situations.
Project managers in the UK typically earn between £30,000 and £60,000 per year, with senior roles reaching up to £90,000 or more.
There were over 85,000 project management job postings in the UK in 2023, spanning industries such as construction, IT, healthcare, and finance.
Around 65 percent of UK project managers hold a professional qualification such as PRINCE2 or the APM Project Management Qualification.
Oversees technology projects such as software development, system upgrades, or digital transformation within an organisation.
Manages building projects from planning through to completion, ensuring work is finished on time, within budget, and to required standards.
Plans and coordinates events such as conferences, exhibitions, or festivals, making sure all aspects run smoothly and meet client expectations.
Finish your GCSEs with a focus on subjects such as Maths, English, and Business Studies.
Achieving good grades at GCSE level, especially in core subjects like Maths and English, is important as they form the basic entry requirements for further education. Business Studies or IT can also be helpful as they introduce you to concepts relevant to project management.
Study A-levels, BTECs or an equivalent qualification in relevant subjects such as Business, Economics, or IT.
A-levels in Business, Economics, or IT will give you a good grounding in skills useful for project management, such as analytical thinking and communication. Alternatively, BTEC Nationals or similar vocational qualifications in business or management can also provide practical knowledge and experience.
Consider obtaining a university degree in Business Management, Project Management, or a related field.
While not always essential, a degree helps you stand out to employers. Many universities offer courses specific to project management, or you may choose a broader business or management degree. Apprenticeships in project management or higher national diplomas (HNDs) are also valuable routes.
Look for internships, placements, or entry-level jobs in admin, coordination, or junior project roles.
Experience in administrative or support roles within organisations will help you understand how projects operate. Volunteering to help organise events or projects at school, university, or in your community is also valuable. The goal is to develop organisational, leadership, and communication skills.
Develop skills such as leadership, problem-solving, time management, and effective communication.
Project managers often need to manage teams, handle unexpected issues, and communicate with different stakeholders. You can develop these skills through extracurricular activities, part-time jobs, volunteering, or specific training courses. Online platforms and local colleges often offer short courses in these areas.
Study for recognised project management certifications such as PRINCE2, APM, or PMP.
These qualifications are highly regarded in the industry and show employers that you have a solid understanding of project management principles and practices. Many organisations offer training courses, and some employers may sponsor you to achieve these as you progress in your career.
Start applying for junior or assistant project manager roles and work your way up.
Look for roles like Project Coordinator or Assistant Project Manager, where you can gain more responsibility and hands-on experience. As you build your portfolio and demonstrate your ability to deliver successful projects, you can progress to more senior project manager positions.
Stay up-to-date with industry trends and continually develop your skills.
Project management is a dynamic field. Attending workshops, joining professional bodies like the Association for Project Management (APM), and networking with other professionals will help you keep your skills current and open up new opportunities.
Explore relevant apprenticeships that can help you kickstart your career in Project Manager. Apprenticeships offer hands-on experience and training while earning a wage.
A Project Manager role generally involves overseeing projects, coordinating teams, and managing resources to achieve specific objectives, which aligns closely with the responsibilities of a Business Project Manager. Both roles require strong leadership, planning skills, and the ability to deliver results within scope and time constraints in a business environment.
You can get into this job through:
You can study for a degree in any subject, then either:
You'll usually need:
You could get into this career by doing an apprenticeship, such as:
These take between 2 and 4 years to complete.
You'll usually need:
You may be able to become a project manager in your organisation, if you've worked for some time in a project support role. You'll need to complete project management qualifications on the job.
In certain sectors, for instance, engineering, construction or cyber security, you may be able to apply directly for jobs if you have an in-depth knowledge of the industry gained through several years' experience.
Skills in planning, business analysis and data management could also give you an advantage.
You could take a course covering project management methods, like PRINCE2 and Agile to help you understand these approaches.
You can find more details about careers, training courses and apprenticeships in project management from the:
Explore other careers or use our AI to discover personalised paths based on your interests.
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