What's the Most Exciting Part of Being a Senior Project Manager?

Is it the unpaid overtime, the endless documentation, or when a stakeholder changes their requirements halfway through the project? While these might seem stressful, the reality is, as a senior project manager, the most exciting moments come less from the chaos and more from the satisfaction of navigating success through collaboration and foresight.

The Unlikely Thrills of a Senior Project Manager

One of the most exhilarating moments for a senior project manager is witnessing the interpersonal dynamics unfold during status meetings. A seasoned PM, after spending time getting to know the team and key stakeholders, might find that they can write the minutes before the meeting even starts. By the time the meeting concludes, only minor adjustments need to be made, and the minutes can be sent out within moments. This isn't just an efficiency trick; it represents the culmination of successful collaboration and communication.

Beyond the Chaos: The Excitement of Collaboration and Delivery

When thinking of excitement, one might initially associate it with the disruptive elements of project management such as changes in requirements or unexpected events. However, these are not the most enriching moments for a senior project manager. True excitement comes from the collaborative effort to maximize the chances of delivering an outcome of value to the enterprise.

Part of this excitement is derived from the iterative feedback process, involving stakeholders and team members in real-time adjustments. From retrospectives to lessons learned at major milestones, the continuous refinement of processes and outcomes ensures that the project stays on track and delivers tangible benefits. The satisfaction of delivering something of true value is the core of what makes the job exciting.

Identifying and Managing Risks

Another thrilling aspect of senior project management is the identification and mitigation of risks. As the project progresses, potential risks are continually analyzed and strategies are devised to minimize their impact. This process involves not just theoretical planning but also practical execution. From early-stage brainstorming to real-time decision-making, the constant negotiation between risk and reward keeps the project on a dynamic and thrilling path.

Conclusion

While the role of a senior project manager can certainly involve its fair share of stress and unpredictability, the real excitement lies in the collaborative triumphs and the successful resolution of challenges. From the write-ahead meeting minutes to course corrections based on real-time feedback, the journey is what makes the destination so rewarding. As a PM, the excitement is not just about avoiding the negative, but also in capturing the value of collaboration and foresight.