What does a program manager do?
A program manager plays a vital role in the overall success of an organization by ensuring programs align with its vision and mission. They define and oversee the overall scope of the program, including planning, budgeting, and allocating resources for these projects, often within a specific industry or sector. Program managers assess the performance of projects within the program to identify areas for improvement and resolve any issues that arise. They work closely with project managers and team leads, providing clear instructions to ensure the successful execution of all projects within the program.
Program manager skills and qualifications
A program manager makes critical decisions that can impact the company’s direction and success. Therefore, advanced leadership, negotiation, and change management skills are essential. A successful program manager also has a range of hard and soft skills, including:
- Analytical skills to break down complex parts of a structure or system into smaller pieces and understand how each contributes to the whole
- Close attention to detail and a high level of accuracy
- An ability to improve processes, minimize resources, and maximize the effectiveness of the program
- Excellent written and verbal communication to take and give constructive feedback
- Flexible and adaptive to a frequently changing environment
Program manager experience requirements
A program manager typically requires three to five years of experience working on or managing programs in a relevant field. Ideal candidates possess strong leadership, communication, and project management skills and often have backgrounds as program coordinators or project managers. The specific amount of experience needed may vary depending on the company, industry, and the complexity of the program being managed.
Program manager education and training requirements
Program managers typically require a bachelor’s degree in business administration, computer science, communications, marketing, or a topic relevant to the industry they will be working in. Ideal candidates will have a master’s degree in finance, project management, or business development and have obtained the Project Management Professional (PMP) or related certification. Candidates with industry-relevant certifications may be preferred, but the certifications are not typically necessary for the role.
Program manager salary expectations
According to Indeed Salaries, the average salary for a program manager is $84,424 per year. The salary may be dependent on experience, location, and company.
Job description samples for similar positions
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Program manager job description FAQs
What is the difference between a program manager and a project manager?
A program manager oversees a group of related projects, focusing on the big picture and the strategic alignment of those projects to achieve a larger organizational goal. A project manager leads a single, defined project from start to finish, managing its details and ensuring timely delivery within set parameters.
Is a program manager in demand in Canada?
Program managers are in demand in Canada, and the field is growing rapidly. They are needed in a variety of industries, including technology, healthcare, finance, construction, government, and non-profits. Their skills are applicable in any field that requires the coordination of multiple projects.
How do I recruit the best program managers?
To recruit the best program managers, focus on creating a detailed job description outlining the specific skills and experience required. Leverage multiple recruitment channels like professional networks and job boards and conduct thorough interviews that assess technical expertise and soft skills like leadership and communication. It’s also important to prioritize cultural fit within your organization by involving team members in the interview process.
What skills and experience do employers look for in a program manager?
Employers typically look for program managers with strong leadership, communication, strategic thinking, stakeholder management, and risk management skills. Suitable candidates will have experience in project planning and execution, the ability to manage complex cross-functional teams, and a proven track record of delivering successful programs on time and within budget. Experience in project management can be a stepping stone to a program manager role.
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