Job Profiles in Focus: The IT Project Manager

The IT Project Manager is responsible for overseeing, planning and executing IT related projects and their objectives. He or she is tasked with organizing team members and time resources to ensure that the project is completed as efficiently as possible within a set timeframe. To accomplish this, some of their responsibilities include creating schedules for various team members, setting project plans, and identifying short- and long-term goals. IT project managers may also be involved with budget, as well as resource acquisition and allocation. They prepare proposals, manage communications between business units, and provide regular update reports to managers or board members.

For projects that are spread across multiple locations, IT project managers may need to travel frequently to hold meetings and consult with members of the project team. IT project managers are not limited to technology companies; they may also work in industries such as healthcare, retail, or financial services.

Although a degree in IT or a related field is not considered a basic requirement, experience in engineering or information technology is considered an asset because it gives the IT manager a certain level of credibility with team members. Most companies also require that IT project managers have several years of experience to be considered for the position.