IT Project Manager
Deliver IT projects on time and budget using structured frameworks
Job titles
IT Project Manager, Programme Manager +
UK salary range
£45,000–£80,000
US salary range
$75,000–$125,000
Time to first role
1–3 years (often transitions from technical roles)
About this role
IT project managers plan and deliver technology projects — infrastructure rollouts, software implementations, and digital transformation programmes. It's one of the few IT roles where formal certification (PMP, PRINCE2) is often required rather than merely preferred.
Key skills employers look for
Certification roadmap
Foundation
Start with foundation certs to understand the frameworks before applying them
CAPMPMI CAPM
The entry-level PMI cert — ideal for people moving into project management from a technical role without prior formal PM experience. Covers PMBOK processes and is accepted as an alternative to PMP experience requirements.
ITIL 4 FoundationITIL 4 Foundation
Covers IT service management principles that underpin IT project delivery. Required at most large enterprises and public sector organisations.
Professional Certification
The cert that most IT PM job postings require
PMPPMI PMP
The world's most recognised project management cert. Requires 36 months of PM work experience before sitting. Frequently listed as a job requirement rather than a preference for senior PM and programme manager roles.
Frequently asked questions
CAPM or PMP — which should I aim for?
CAPM if you haven't yet accumulated the 36 months of PM experience PMP requires. PMP if you have the experience — it's significantly more impactful on a CV. CAPM is not a stepping stone to PMP; you'd apply for PMP separately once you meet the experience requirement.