Project Manager: Definition, Role and Responsibilities

What Is a Project Manager?

A Project Manager is the person assigned by the performing organisation to lead the project team responsible for achieving the project objectives. Project Managers perform a variety of functions, including facilitating project team activities and managing the processes required to deliver the intended outcomes.

What Does a Project Manager Do?

Project Managers help coordinate the collective work required to deliver a project effectively and efficiently. Their responsibilities can include:

• Coordinating project team activities
• Supporting communication between team members and stakeholders
• Facilitating the work needed to achieve project outcomes
• Managing project processes
• Supporting the delivery of project benefits and value

The specific functions of a Project Manager can vary depending on the project, organisation, industry and required deliverables.

Project Coordination

Not every project requires the same coordination structure. Some projects benefit from centralised coordination through a designated Project Manager, while others may use decentralised coordination where project team members self-organise and self-manage.

A project can also combine both approaches, with self-organised teams responsible for specific parts of the work while overall coordination remains centralised.

Project Manager in Cosmetic Product Development

In cosmetic product development, a Project Manager may coordinate activities involving formulation, packaging, testing, manufacturing, regulatory compliance and other specialist functions. The role helps ensure that the different contributors work together towards the agreed project objectives.

Ultimately, project outcomes are delivered through the collective effort of the project team, supported by appropriate coordination and leadership.

References

The Standard for Project Management and A Guide to the Project Management Body of Knowledge (PMBOK® Guide), Seventh Edition.