Manager in Project Management – Definition and Meaning
A manager in the general project management context is a person or role responsible for planning, organizing, leading, monitoring, and controlling projects, programs, portfolios, or specific resources. Managers are employed to ensure that defined objectives (e.g., project goals, departmental goals, corporate goals) are achieved efficiently and effectively. They typically do this by leading teams, making decisions, coordinating resources, developing plans, and controlling progress.
Example, best practice, and further information on the term
In an IT project, for example, a development manager might coordinate various development teams, make technical decisions, and report the progress of software development to the project manager or senior management. A proven best practice for managers is to communicate clear goals and expectations, provide the necessary resources, and give regular feedback. This aligns with general leadership principles described in PMBOK and concepts such as servant leadership in agile environments. Effective management fosters team engagement and significantly contributes to the success of the projects or areas under their responsibility.