What does a project manager do?

I'm curious about the role of a project manager. What are their main tasks and responsibilities? How do they fit into a company's overall structure, and what skills are most important for success in this position?

A project manager oversees all aspects of a project within an organization. They work across various departments, managing and coordinating resources to ensure the projects they are handling progress smoothly from initiation to completion.

The roles and responsibilities of a project manager may vary based on the specific project and the industry, but typically include the following:

1. Project Planning: This involves defining and mapping out the project scope, setting deadlines, determining necessary resources, and establishing the project's goals.

2. Resource Management: Project managers must allocate and manage resources effectively. They need to plan their team's work, assign tasks, and ensure everyone has the necessary tools to complete their assignments.

3. Project Control: They are responsible for monitoring the progress of the project, ensuring it is on track with predetermined milestones and timelines. If any issues arise, project managers are responsible for making necessary adjustments.

4. Risk Management: Identifying and managing potential risks is crucial in project management. This involves mitigating any foreseeable issues that could derail the project timeline or increase costs.

5. Communication: Keeping all stakeholders informed about project progress is vital. They hold regular meetings to update stakeholders on progress, address concerns, and gather feedback.

6. Closing Projects: This step includes finalizing deliverables, releasing resources, and evaluating overall project performance against the original objectives.

As for skills, project managers require a mix of technical and soft skills. They need to understand the technical aspects of the projects they oversee, but they also need excellent organizational, communication, problem-solving, and leadership skills. It's also valuable for them to be proficient in project management software tools.

In a company's overall structure, project managers often act as a bridge between upper management and project teams. While they report to senior management or a project director, project managers directly oversee a team of specialists working on a project. They ensure the team's work aligns with the company's strategic objectives and communicate the team's progress back to senior leadership.

Remember, being a successful project manager requires an ability to adapt to changing circumstances and maintain focus on the overall goal, despite any hiccups along the way.