Project Portfolio Manager Job Description [Updated for 2025]

In the era of project management, the focus on project portfolio managers has never been sharper.

As business landscapes evolve, the demand for skilled individuals who can manage, prioritize, and execute project portfolios grows stronger.

But let’s delve deeper: What’s really expected of a project portfolio manager?

Whether you are:

• A job seeker trying to grasp the core of this role,
• A hiring manager drafting the perfect candidate profile,
• Or simply interested in the intricate world of project portfolio management,

You’ve come to the right place.

Today, we introduce a customizable project portfolio manager job description template, designed for easy posting on job boards or career sites.

Let’s dive right into it.

Project Portfolio Manager Duties and Responsibilities

Project Portfolio Managers oversee and manage an organization’s group of projects, ensuring that they align with the company’s strategic goals and objectives.

They utilize their expert knowledge and experience in project management to lead teams, handle resources, and make strategic decisions.

The duties and responsibilities of Project Portfolio Managers include:

• Overseeing and managing all projects within the organization’s portfolio.
• Ensuring that all projects align with the company’s strategic objectives and goals.
• Developing and implementing project management methodologies, processes and practices.
• Leading project teams and coordinating with various departments and stakeholders.
• Monitoring and controlling project scopes, schedules, resources and costs.
• Resolving project issues and mitigating project risks.
• Evaluating project performance and implementing improvement strategies.
• Reporting project status and performance to senior management and stakeholders.
• Developing project portfolio budget and managing expenditure.
• Ensuring compliance with project management standards and regulatory requirements.

 

Project Portfolio Manager Job Description Template

Job Brief

We are seeking a highly-organized and strategic Project Portfolio Manager to join our team.

The Project Portfolio Manager will be responsible for overseeing and coordinating project management activities across the entire portfolio.

This includes defining project scopes, developing project plans, managing resources, and delivering project objectives.

The ideal candidate should have a strong background in project management, including an understanding of the principles of project governance, project metrics, and project portfolio management.

 

Responsibilities

• Manage and oversee the organization’s project portfolio
• Develop and implement project management methodologies and standards
• Monitor and control project execution and delivery
• Coordinate and manage project resources
• Manage project risk and issues
• Develop project reports and presentations for senior management
• Ensure that all projects are delivered on-time, within scope and within budget
• Manage relationships with stakeholders and external vendors

 

Qualifications

• Proven work experience as a Project Manager or Project Portfolio Manager
• Strong knowledge of project management methodologies and tools
• Experience in strategic planning, risk management and change management
• Proficiency in project management software tools
• Excellent client-facing and internal communication skills
• Excellent written and verbal communication skills
• Strong working knowledge of Microsoft Office and project management tools
• Project Management Professional (PMP) / PRINCE II certification is a plus
• Bachelor’s degree in a relevant field

 

Benefits

• 401(k)
• Health insurance
• Dental insurance
• Retirement plan
• Paid time off
• Professional development opportunities

 

Additional Information

• Job Title: Project Portfolio Manager
• Work Environment: Office setting with options for remote work. Some travel may be required for team meetings or project site visits.
• Reporting Structure: Reports to the Chief Operations Officer or equivalent.
• Salary: Salary is based upon candidate experience and qualifications, as well as market and business considerations.
• Pay Range: $110,000 minimum to $180,000 maximum
• Location: [City, State] (specify the location or indicate if remote)
• Employment Type: Full-time
• Equal Opportunity Statement: We are an equal opportunity employer and value diversity at our company. We do not discriminate on the basis of race, religion, color, national origin, gender, sexual orientation, age, marital status, veteran status, or disability status.
• Application Instructions: Please submit your resume and a cover letter outlining your qualifications and experience to [email address or application portal].

 

What Does a Project Portfolio Manager Do?

A Project Portfolio Manager primarily works within organizations to oversee and manage a collection of projects, known as a project portfolio.

This could span across various departments within the same organization.

They are responsible for ensuring that the projects within the portfolio align with the business’s strategy and goals.

This involves evaluating, prioritizing, and selecting projects based on their potential for return on investment and contribution to the organization’s overall objectives.

Project Portfolio Managers work closely with project managers to provide resources, identify potential risks, and resolve issues.

They are also tasked with monitoring the progress of projects, ensuring they are completed on time and within the set budget.

Beyond project execution, Project Portfolio Managers often play a strategic role in the company.

They help shape business strategy, make investment decisions, and identify opportunities for growth or improvement.

They may also be involved in communicating the status and outcomes of projects to stakeholders, providing them with a clear understanding of the benefits and impacts of each project within the portfolio.

Their role requires a strong understanding of project management principles, financial acumen, and excellent leadership and communication skills.

 

Project Portfolio Manager Qualifications and Skills

A proficient Project Portfolio Manager should have skills and qualifications that help them manage and oversee a group of projects to ensure strategic alignment and success, such as:

• Strong leadership skills to oversee and manage a team of project managers and ensure all projects are on track and aligned with business strategy.
• Excellent communication skills to discuss project goals, provide updates, and articulate project risks and issues to stakeholders at all levels.
• Strategic thinking and business acumen to understand the organization’s strategy and align the project portfolio accordingly.
• Technical knowledge and understanding of project management principles, methodologies, and software tools.
• Analytical skills to assess project performance, identify trends, and make data-driven decisions.
• Risk management skills to foresee potential project risks, develop contingency plans, and effectively handle any issues that arise.
• Financial management skills to develop budgets, control costs, and ensure the financial success of projects.
• Interpersonal skills to build and maintain strong relationships with team members, stakeholders, and clients.
• Problem-solving skills to address and overcome project challenges and obstacles.
• Time management skills to ensure project deadlines are met and that all projects within the portfolio are progressing as planned.

 

Project Portfolio Manager Experience Requirements

Project Portfolio Managers typically require a considerable amount of experience, both in project management and in their specific industry.

This is usually a senior-level position, requiring at least 8 to 10 years of experience in project management, with a focus on managing multiple projects or a project portfolio.

For entry into this role, individuals may have started their career in project coordination or as a Junior Project Manager, gradually gaining experience in managing increasingly complex projects.

Candidates with around 5 years of experience often progress to the role of Project Manager, where they gain hands-on experience in planning, executing, monitoring, controlling, and closing projects.

Those with more than 10 years of experience, including at least 3 to 5 years in a senior project management role, are usually considered ready for the Project Portfolio Manager role.

This role often requires a strong track record of successful project delivery, strategic planning, and team leadership.

Additionally, experience with project management software, methodologies like Agile or Scrum, and certifications such as PMP (Project Management Professional) or PgMP (Program Management Professional) can be advantageous.

In some industries, like IT or construction, specific industry experience may also be required for a Project Portfolio Manager role.

 

Project Portfolio Manager Education and Training Requirements

Project Portfolio Managers usually hold a bachelor’s degree in business administration, project management, or a related field.

They need to have a solid understanding of project management principles and methodologies, as well as familiarity with project portfolio management software tools.

Several years of experience in project management or a related field is typically required for this position, with some organizations preferring individuals who have led complex projects or managed multiple projects simultaneously.

Most positions require Project Portfolio Managers to hold a Project Management Professional (PMP) certification, awarded by the Project Management Institute (PMI).

This certification validates their competency to perform in the role of a project manager, leading and directing projects and teams.

In addition to these, many Project Portfolio Managers opt to pursue advanced degrees, such as a Master’s in Business Administration (MBA), or specialized certifications like the Portfolio Management Professional (PfMP) or Certified Portfolio Management Professional (CPMP) to enhance their skills and knowledge.

The role often involves a high degree of strategic planning and decision making, so further qualifications in areas such as business strategy or financial management could also be beneficial.

Continual professional development is important in this role, as it allows the Project Portfolio Manager to stay up to date with emerging trends and best practices in the field.

 

Project Portfolio Manager Salary Expectations

The average salary for a Project Portfolio Manager is $123,487 (USD) per year.

The actual earnings can vary widely depending on factors such as the industry, the size of the company, location, and the individual’s level of experience and education.

 

Project Portfolio Manager Job Description FAQs

What skills does a Project Portfolio Manager need?

Project Portfolio Managers should possess excellent organizational and multitasking skills as they often handle multiple projects simultaneously.

They need good communication skills to interact with various stakeholders, from team members to high-level executives.

They should also have strong leadership skills to guide and motivate their team.

Knowledge of project management software and methodologies is essential.

 

Do Project Portfolio Managers need a degree?

Most Project Portfolio Managers need a bachelor’s degree in business or a related field.

Some organizations may prefer candidates with a master’s degree in business administration (MBA) or project management.

Certifications like PMP (Project Management Professional) or PfMP (Portfolio Management Professional) are often desirable.

 

What should you look for in a Project Portfolio Manager resume?

Look for significant experience in project management, preferably in leading multiple projects.

Evidence of successful project delivery, knowledge of various project management methodologies, and experience with project management software is crucial.

Certifications in project management and a degree in a relevant field should be present.

Lastly, look for skills such as leadership, communication, and strategic thinking.

 

What qualities make a good Project Portfolio Manager?

A good Project Portfolio Manager is a strategic thinker who can assess and prioritize projects based on their alignment with business goals.

They should be a strong leader who can motivate teams and manage resources efficiently.

Excellent communication and negotiation skills are essential to interact with different stakeholders.

They should also be comfortable with risk management and decision making.

 

Is it difficult to hire a Project Portfolio Manager?

Hiring a Project Portfolio Manager can be challenging due to the specific combination of skills and experience required.

They not only need substantial project management experience, but also leadership skills, strategic thinking, and business acumen.

As such, you may need to offer competitive compensation packages and demonstrate opportunities for career advancement to attract top candidates.

 

Conclusion

And there you have it.

Today, we unraveled the intricacies of what it truly means to be a Project Portfolio Manager.

Surprise, surprise!

It’s not just about managing projects.

It’s about orchestrating enterprise transformation, one project at a time.

With our definitive Project Portfolio Manager job description template and real-world examples, you’re equipped to forge ahead.

But why stop there?

Delve deeper with our job description generator. It’s your roadmap to precision-engineered job listings or refining your resume to a T.

Remember:

Every project you manage is a piece of a larger strategic puzzle.

Let’s engineer that future. Together.

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