A project manager is in charge of the project from the initial phase to the end of the project. As a project manager, your role is to make sure that the project goals are met timely with high quality. Now, you know who and what a project manager does, there are many types of project managers depending on the industry type.
Although different types of project managers have their own focus roles depending on the respective industry. They all share the same core of managing the project and meeting the client’s expectations. It is important to know the types of project managers.
In this blog, we will be focusing on 7 types of project managers and which special certification is needed to upgrade your project management career accordingly. Let’s start off with the first type of project manager. Continue reading!
1. Functional Project Manager
The first type of project manager is a functional project manager, who has to lead projects within a specific department. A functional project manager’s role revolves around managing the people and resources needed for the project.
Here are a few general responsibilities of a functional project manager:
- Track the progress and performance
- Risk management
- Resource management
- Staffing and development
- Budgeting and cost control
These are the general set of responsibilities of a functional project manager. To be able to manage these responsibilities, a functional project manager should know how to blend both core and specific skills.
For entry level based roles, you need to have CAPM certification. And for experience based roles you should have PMP certification. (For more clarity, read our blog on CAPM certification and PMP certification)
2. Technical Project Manager
A technical project manager (TPM) acts like a messenger between the technical and nontechnical teams. Unlike project managers, TPMs need to look into schedules and funds plus the technical aspects of the project.
Here are a few technical project manager responsibilities :
- Supervising the project from start to finish
- Managing development teams
- Check product quality
- Identify and solve technical risks
- Communicate updates between technical teams and nontechnical teams
For authenticity, you need to get credentials like PMP Certification or CAPM, which are valuable. In addition, TPMs can benefit from specialized certifications such as PMI ACP or Certified Scrum Master (CSM).
3. Agile Project Manager
An agile project manager leads projects using agile methodology, which mainly focuses on collaboration and constant changes instead of fixed structures. Agile project managers have to work with cross functional teams to reach the project goal in short and manageable cycles known as sprints for consistent progress and flexibility.
Responsibilities of an Agile project manager:
- Simplify daily standups and other meetings.
- Collaborate with product owners to define and prioritize the backlog.
- Identify and remove any blockers that hinder progress.
- Monitor sprint performance and adjust plans.
- Maintain transparency with the team.
To grow in this role and gain credibility, certifications like PMI ACP or SAFe Agile are highly recommended. For project managers who already have a PMP certification, adding an agile certification creates more versatility and builds on expertise.
4. Construction Project Manager
A construction project manager is responsible for planning and supervising construction projects from start to finish and has to maintain the project within the given budget according to the safety and quality standards.
Here are the responsibilities of a construction project manager:
- Plan and schedule construction activities
- Estimate costs and prepare project budget
- Coordinate with architects, engineers, and contractors
- Ensure safety and building regulations are followed
- Monitor progress and resolve on site issues
To manage these responsibilities effectively, a construction project manager needs strong technical knowledge, leadership and organizational skills.
To build credibility in this field, certifications such as PMP, CAPM, or Certified Construction Manager are valuable.
5. Marketing Project Manager
A marketing project manager (MPM) is responsible for planning, executing, and delivering marketing campaigns and projects that help promote a brand, product, or service.
They work closely with creative teams, content writers, designers, and marketing strategists to ensure every campaign is aligned with business goals and completed on time.
Here are a few general responsibilities of a marketing project manager:
- Plan and execute marketing campaigns across multiple channels
- Coordinate with internal teams and external vendors
- Define timelines, budgets, and deliverables for marketing projects
- Track project progress and campaign performance metrics
- Ensure brand consistency across all marketing materials
- Manage communication between creative, digital, and analytics teams
To build credibility and advance in this role, certifications such as PMP, CAPM, or PMI ACP are beneficial. Additionally, marketing related certifications like Google Analytics, or Digital Marketing certifications can be advantageous.
6. IT Project Manager
An IT project manager is responsible for planning, executing, and supervising tech related projects like software development, system upgrades, network installations, or cybersecurity initiatives. IT project managers have to look after IT projects and timely delivery within the given budget.
The IT project manager acts as the link between the technical team and business stakeholders, translating complex technical details into clear, actionable plans.
Here are a few general responsibilities of an IT project manager:
- Plan, coordinate, and execute IT related projects
- Define project scope, objectives and deliverables
- Manage cross functional technical teams and vendors
- Ensure compliance with IT standards and security protocols
- Monitor progress, budgets and timelines
- Identify and solve problems related to technology or integration
- Report project updates to stakeholders and senior management
To build credibility and enhance career opportunities, certifications like PMP, Certified Scrum Master, PMI CPMAI, or PMI ACP are valuable.
Conclusion
Every type of project manager plays an important role in bringing ideas to life, whether it’s in tech, marketing, or freelancing. While each role demands unique abilities, the core skills for project managers remain the same leadership, communication, and strategic thinking.
If you want to know more about AI and project management, check out this blog on AI project management.
FAQs for types of project managers
These are a few commonly asked questions regarding the types of project managers on the web. We have compiled these top 5 questions and answered them for you to clear your doubts.
1. How many types of project managers are there?
There is no set number of types of project managers. Project manager are categorized by industry types like marketing, technical, agile and etc.
2. What are the major types of project management?
The major types of project management includes the different types of frameworks or methodology like agile, hybrid, kanban, scrum and lean.
3. Are technical and IT project managers the same type of project managers?
No, technical and IT project managers and not the same, they have different responsibilities and specialization.
4. What is the highest level of project manager?
The highest level for a project manager is an executive position like Vice president of project management or VP of project portfolio management
