Would you hire an entry-level engineering manager—someone fresh out of school with no leadership experience or technical expertise? Of course not. So why do so many organizations place entry-level project management personnel into Project Manager positions and expect success?
The root of this problem lies in how project management is treated. Instead of being recognized as a professional discipline with structured progression, it is often reduced to a generic title. The term "Project Manager" is used so broadly that its meaning is diluted, and the expertise required to lead projects successfully is devalued.
To clarify, let’s differentiate three key concepts:
Project Management as a Discipline: A professional field with established methodologies, tools, and best practices. It requires formal training, experience, and progression through positions like Project Coordinator or Assistant Project Manager.
Project Manager Positions: Mid-level management positions where individuals are responsible for leading teams, managing resources, and delivering results. These positions demand leadership, strategic decision-making, and significant experience.
Temporary Project Manager Assignments: In internal or small-scale projects, employees are sometimes assigned to a project manager role to oversee specific initiatives. While this is practical for less complex efforts, it does not require the expertise or leadership of a professional Project Manager and should not be conflated with holding a formal Project Manager position.
The problem arises when organizations conflate these concepts and place individuals with little or no experience into Project Manager positions. This practice leads to failed projects, disengaged teams, and a loss of trust in project management as a profession. Worse, it perpetuates the misconception that "everyone is a project manager," further diminishing the value of the discipline.
Project Managers are not simply task trackers—they are leaders who align strategy, manage competing priorities, and deliver measurable results. To ensure success, project management must be treated as a professional discipline, and Project Manager positions must be reserved for those with the experience and skills required to succeed.
Amendment: While it’s possible for someone to be new to the position of Project Manager, this does not equate to being "entry-level." The term "entry-level" implies having no or very limited experience in the field. By the time someone steps into a Project Manager position, they should have already developed the foundational skills and experience needed to lead projects effectively, typically through roles like Project Coordinator or Assistant Project Manager. Being new to the role is not the same as being entry-level—it’s the culmination of progression within the discipline.
