Business Project Manager Career Guide

• Gather customer requirements and help them clarify their technical needs in order to refine the request;
• Ensure that the functional specifications are realistic, both technically and in terms of economic constraints;
• Draw up a complete specification document for the solution (context, objectives, cost, deadline, proposed steps to be taken, etc.);
• Monitor the progress of the project by ensuring effective communication between the customer and the project manager: smooth exchanges, facilitation of meetings, conflict management and defusing, etc.
• Test whether the IT tool developed meets the clients’ needs (this stage is called ‘functional acceptance testing’);
• Set up appropriate training or support so that clients can make full use of the solution.

Originally, the term project owner came from the construction industry, where it simply referred to the client (individuals, developers, etc.) for whom the construction or renovation work was being carried out. However, with the digital transformation of businesses and the increasing complexity of business processes, project management has become more widespread and, to some extent, digitised.

Most project management professionals now work in-house in all types of organizations. They are particularly sought after by digital services companies and large organizations.

Senior professionals may also choose to become independent project management consultants.

In terms of sectors that are recruiting, some areas of activity are recruiting more than others, particularly IT, banking, insurance and industry.

The two professions are very different, but complementary. One is involved in structuring a project, and the other in its execution.

• The project manager is responsible for defining requirements and drawing up the project specifications.

The project implementation manager is responsible for the actual and technical implementation of the project

This professional’s scope of action is broader than that of a project manager. They identify the company’s operational weaknesses and propose concrete solutions. This often involves profound organizational changes, which can sometimes be complex.

After several years of experience, a project manager can move into a CIO position. They are then responsible for ensuring that internal IT systems meet the company’s business and strategic challenges, while continuously improving them.

As mentioned earlier in this job description, a senior profile may choose to become self-employed. They then work as a business analysis consultant, serving various clients.