Project Manager Review

My role is a Project manager managing and oversight of digital deliveries. I am responsible for managing backlogs, coordinating meetings, planning, tracking of tasks and actions. I am also responsible for risk and issues management, reporting and general day to day running of the project. Stakeholder management, budgeting and responsible for project delivery.

I have learnt about procurement which i previously had very little experience in, this has since helped me when i have had to oversee the appointment of a third party vendor to fulfill one of our use cases. I have also developed a greater understanding on consolidated planning and risk and issues management which has helped me maintain delivery timelines and mitigated risks earlier.

I really enjoy working on my program, as it is extremely interesting and i am constantly learning new skills and technical knowledge. I have been able to utilise the skills i have learnt from my apprenticeship which has helped me manage deliveries and also been able to share best practice with my colleagues.

The organisation is extremely organised and well structure with a great strategy that has been widely communicated to all members of staff. They have a group directory which makes it easy to identify and contact colleagues and a clearly defined hierarchy, although this is only used in a positive manner.

I receive lots of support from my employer as there is a well defined structure, a good HR team and procedures. We also have access to mentors who can help guide and support our development and also volunteer to be a mentor to support others and leant new skills. We are also encouraged to completed a personal development review and document what we want to achieve and areas of development we wish to focus on.

My initial tutor was very hit and miss and didn't share all the relevant information. However when he left and i got assigned a new tutor she was really thorough, ensure i clearly understood what was expected, what timelines i was working towards and conducted regular meeting to track my progress.

I feel that the qualification gave me a more rounded approach to my role by equipping me with greater knowledge, approaching situations in a slightly different way and giving me more context. I have been able to implement most of the knowledge i have learnt and it has helped me to improve my management of risks and issues ensuring they are identified sooner and thus remediated or escalated quicker.

There are lots of extracurricular activities to get involved with ranging from sports and social clubs, to networking events such as Agile question time. We also have working lunches where we can share best practice with colleagues whilst having the opportunity to call out any issues/blockers. The organisation is extremely supportive of mental health and runs regular workshops and sessions.

Yes

It is an excellent place to work with numerous opportunities to develop both on a personal level and career wise. There is lots of support and flexibility allowing you to work the hours that support your family and lifestyle whilst also getting recognition for hard work with a great rewards and recognition program.

Do your research on the job you are applying for, spend time practicing competency based interview questions with colleagues and friends. Be positive and sell yourself, evidencing all your skills. Don't be scared to share your development areas and how you have upskilled yourself. Most importantly be yourself and honest.