How to Become a Programme Manager:

Dear Project Managers,

Welcome to our latest edition of the PMCW newsletter! I hope you have had a great week expanding your PM capabilities and opportunities for career growth!

Today, we will explore the world of programme management and the role of the programme manager. You’ll have a chance to hear directly from programme professionals, talking about the exciting megaprojects that they are currently leading, their career paths to being a programme manager, career challenges and opportunities. The key skills that underpin delivery success and the importance of effective leadership.

Whether you are already a project manager looking to expand your skills or an aspiring professional identifying how you will take your career forward in the field, understanding the nuances of programme management can greatly enhance your career prospects.

So without further delay let’s start with two great programme-themed podcasts to give you a taste of programme management in action.

Programme Management vs. Project Management

So, let's clarify the distinction between programme management and project management. While project management focuses on the successful delivery of individual projects, programme management involves overseeing a collection of projects and managing their inter-dependencies to achieve a broader strategic objective. Think of programme management as the bigger picture, encompassing multiple projects and their integration into a cohesive whole.

Roles and Responsibilities of a Programme Manager

The programme manager plays a crucial role in ensuring the successful delivery of the entire change initiative. Let's take a closer look at the roles and responsibilities they undertake:

1. Planning and Designing the Programme: The programme manager is responsible for creating a comprehensive plan for the programme, monitoring its progress, and taking corrective actions as needed.

2. Defining Governance Arrangements: Establishing effective governance structures ensures proper decision-making, risk management, and stakeholder engagement throughout the programme's lifecycle.

3. Ensuring Quality Assurance and Programme Integrity: The programme manager maintains the internal consistency of the programme, aligning it with infrastructure planning, other programmes, and relevant standards.

4. Managing Budget and Expenditure: Acting on behalf of the Senior Responsible Owner (SRO), the programme manager monitors expenditure, tracks costs against delivered benefits, and manages the programme's budget.

5. Facilitating Team Appointments: The programme manager helps in selecting and assigning individuals to project teams, ensuring the right skills and resources are allocated.

6. Delivering Projects and Products: The programme manager ensures that projects within the programme are completed on time, within budget, and to the desired level of quality, in alignment with the programme plan and governance arrangements.

7. Managing Dependencies and Interfaces: Handling the inter-dependencies between projects is vital to maintain coherence and coordination across the programme.

8. Managing Risks: The programme manager identifies and manages risks that may impact the successful outcome of the programme.

9. Communication and Stakeholder Management: Effective communication with stakeholders at all levels is essential to keep them informed and engaged throughout the programme.

10. Transitioning to Business as Usual: Collaborating with the business change manager, the programme manager ensures a smooth transition from project delivery to the new business-as-usual state.

11. Identifying and Addressing Programme Gaps: Proactively identifying gaps and addressing issues that arise during the programme is a crucial responsibility of the programme manager.

12. Progress Reporting: Regularly reporting the progress of the programme to the SRO or programme director, if applicable, keeps stakeholders informed about achievements and challenges.

Skills and Attributes of a Programme Manager

To excel as a programme manager, certain skills and attributes are vital:

1. Leadership, Interpersonal, and Communication Skills: Effective leadership and communication foster a sense of community among project teams and stakeholders.

2. Planning and Control Techniques: A good understanding of planning, monitoring, and control techniques helps in managing the complexities of a programme.

3. Business Case Development: Sound business case development skills enable the programme manager to justify and secure resources for the programme.

4. Procurement and Negotiation: Knowledge of procurement processes and negotiation skills are valuable for managing relationships with third-party vendors and contractors.

5. Programme and Project Management Methods: Familiarity with programme management methodologies, such as Managing Successful Programmes (MSP) and PRINCE2, enhances the ability to navigate the complexities of programme management.

6. Budgeting and Resource Allocation: Understanding budgeting and resource allocation procedures is essential to manage the financial aspects of the programme effectively.

7. Credibility and Advisory Role: The programme manager should possess the seniority and credibility to provide guidance and support to project teams in alignment with the programme's objectives.

8. Problem-Solving Abilities: Being proactive in identifying and resolving problems or anticipating them before they occur is a key attribute of a successful programme manager.

As programme management often involves large and complex initiatives, additional roles such as risk managers, communications managers, or benefits managers may be appointed to support the programme manager in specific areas.

Developing into a Programme Manager

If you aspire to become a programme manager, it's essential to acquire the necessary skills, knowledge, and experience. Seek opportunities to work on projects and gain hands-on experience in project management. Familiarize yourself with programme management methodologies like MSP and PRINCE2 through training programs and certifications. Additionally, cultivate leadership, communication, and problem-solving skills, as they are critical for success in this role.

Programme management offers a dynamic and challenging career path for those passionate about overseeing strategic initiatives and driving change. By understanding the roles, responsibilities, and skills required of a programme manager, you can chart your path towards developing into an effective leader capable of delivering successful outcomes.

I hope you found this edition of the newsletter informative and valuable. Stay tuned for more insights and updates on project and programme management in future PMCW editions!