Project Managers are responsible for planning, executing, and closing projects, ensuring that they are completed on time, within budget, and to the required quality standards. They coordinate teams, manage resources, monitor progress, and communicate with stakeholders to solve problems and keep everyone informed. Project Managers work in a wide range of industries including construction, information technology, engineering, healthcare, and marketing. The role requires strong leadership, organisational, and communication skills, as well as the ability to handle pressure and adapt to changing situations.
The average salary for a Project Manager in the UK ranges from £35,000 to £60,000 per year, depending on experience and industry.
There are over 30,000 advertised Project Manager positions across the UK each year, with strong demand in sectors such as construction, IT, and healthcare.
With experience, Project Managers can progress to senior roles such as Programme Manager or Portfolio Manager, often earning £70,000 or more.
Oversees building projects from start to finish, managing budgets, timelines, and coordination between architects, engineers, and contractors.
Leads teams to deliver technology projects such as software development, system upgrades, or digital transformation, ensuring projects meet requirements and deadlines.
Plans and coordinates all aspects of events like conferences, festivals, or exhibitions, managing logistics, suppliers, and on-the-day operations.
Research what a Project Manager does and the skills required for the role.
Project Managers lead teams, manage budgets, create schedules, and solve problems. They need good communication, leadership, time management, and organisational skills. You can learn more about the role by reading job descriptions and speaking to professionals in the field.
Work on developing skills like teamwork, organisation, and communication.
You can improve these skills through extracurricular activities, part-time jobs, volunteering, or school projects. Taking on responsibilities such as leading group projects or organising events can help you gain relevant experience.
Complete relevant GCSEs and A Levels, and consider a university degree or apprenticeship.
Most Project Managers have at least five GCSEs at grades 9 to 4 including English and maths. Useful A Levels include business, IT, or management subjects. You can study a degree in project management, business, engineering, or a related field, or apply for a Higher or Degree Apprenticeship in project management.
Seek experience through internships, placements, or entry-level jobs.
Experience in any role involving teamwork, organisation, or leadership is valuable. Look for internships or assistant roles in project management, or volunteer to manage small projects in school or community organisations.
Apply for entry-level jobs such as Project Assistant, Project Coordinator, or Junior Project Manager.
Entry-level roles allow you to learn from experienced managers and gradually take on more responsibility. Look for positions in industries that interest you, such as construction, IT, or business services.
Pursue professional certifications to enhance your skills and career prospects.
Certifications such as PRINCE2, APM Project Management Qualification, or AgilePM are highly regarded in the UK. These can be completed while working and will give you a strong foundation for advancement.
Work towards becoming a Senior Project Manager or Programme Manager.
With experience and further qualifications, you can manage larger projects or teams and move into more senior roles. Continuing professional development is important to keep your skills up to date.
Programme Managers oversee multiple related projects, aligning them with organisational objectives and ensuring efficient resource allocation.
Business Analysts work with organisations to improve processes, products, and services through data analysis and requirement gathering, often supporting project delivery.
Operations Managers are responsible for overseeing the day-to-day activities of a business or department, ensuring efficient processes and resource management.
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 in general is responsible for planning, executing, and closing projects, which is very similar to the role of an IT project manager. Both roles require strong organisational skills, risk management, and stakeholder communication to deliver successful outcomes within a specific domain.
You can get into this job through:
You can do a degree or postgraduate qualification in:
You'll usually need:
You could do an apprenticeship, for example:
These apprenticeships can take between 2 and 4 years to complete.
You'll usually need:
You may be able to start with an organisation as an assistant project manager if you've got experience of working in IT.
You could then do further training on the job and take on more management responsibilities.
You could train with a professional body, like the Association for Project Management or the Project Management Institute, to help with your career development.
It might help when looking for work if you have an understanding of agile project management methods.
You can find out more about computing careers and training through The Chartered Institute for IT and techskills.
Explore other careers or use our AI to discover personalised paths based on your interests.
Address
Developing Experts Limited
Exchange Street Buildings
35-37 Exchange Street
Norwich
NR2 1DP
UK
Phone
01603 273515
Email
[email protected]
Copyright 2025 Developing Experts, All rights reserved.
Unlock expert-designed lessons, resources, and assessments tailored for educators. No credit card required.
Claim Your Free Trial →
