What does an IT Project Manager do?
The IT Project Manager helps an organisation implement software and enterprise applications that promote staff productivity, efficient business operations and resource usage. They lead project teams and oversee the planning, strategy and execution of tasks to ensure the successful delivery of IT projects. Their main tasks include network upgrading, hardware and software installations and application development.
IT Project Managers manage an IT team, they keep track of output and performance and look for innovative solutions to problems that may arise. They also ensure teams adhere to the project management framework and use the right tools, processes and reporting principles. IT Project Managers work with different people from hourly support staff all the way to Chief level executives.
IT Project Manager skills and qualifications
A successful IT Project Manager candidate will have various prerequisite skills and qualifications in order to execute their duties successfully including:
- A solid understanding of IT systems, networking and computer software
- Excellent verbal, written and presentation skills
- Leadership skills
- Ability to motivate IT staff
- Logical problem solver who can operate under constraints
- Strong organisational skills
- Ability to juggle multiple tasks
IT Project Manager experience requirements
IT Project Managers are required to have at least five years of experience in management either at a lead or support level. The right candidate has a track record of delivering IT projects on time and budget. Employers prefer applicants with an extensive background in IT particularly Enterprise Resource Planning (ERP) package integration and custom software development.
In addition to leading teams, it’s essential for the Project Manager to have a working knowledge of project management tools, processes, framework and reporting standards. Many projects involve stakeholders, so it’s equally important that IT Project Managers understand how to manage stakeholder relationships.
Resource planning and budgeting are essential to the success of a project. Applicants with budgeting experience can help an organisation manage and control costs. A proven history in database construction, security and maintenance is a plus.
IT Project Manager education and training requirements
An IT Project Manager must have at least a Bachelor’s Degree in Computer Science, Project Management or equivalent certification. However, most employers prefer applicants with a Master’s Degree in Computer Science or Information Technology. Certification in either PRINCE2, Scrum and PMP is an added advantage.
IT Project Manager salary expectations
According to Indeed Salaries, the average salary for an IT Project Manager is £44,243 per year. Salary may range depending on the size of the organisation, experience and location.
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