Your next career move: how to take the next step as a senior project manager
You’ve been in projects for some time, defined by years of delivery, increasingly complex portfolios and a reputation for getting things done. The question you might be asking yourself now is, what’s next?
If you’re looking to lead larger programmes, enter new sectors or position yourself for executive roles, the next stage of your career needs more than your technical expertise. Senior roles in high-stakes projects and programmes require strategic foresight, professional agility and a conscious investment in your own development. Here’s how you can take the next step forward:
1. Assess your readiness
Before you make your next move, it’s a good idea to understand where you stand. One of the most effective ways to do this is by using the APM Competence Framework, which outlines 29 professional competences, ranging from governance to leadership to risk management. Each competence has detailed criteria and a self-assessment rating scale for you to explore.
You can also take advantage of the APM Competence Assessment Tool to benchmark yourself; evaluating your current capabilities honestly and determining the areas where you could improve or deepen your expertise. Part of the APM Competence Framework also includes a list of project role profiles worth exploring; you can map what competences you need and the level of proficiency that’s required for the role you’re looking to move into. To access the assessment tool individuals must be logged into the website first, and it is free to register for an account.
Understanding what employers look for will also help you when it comes to applications and online presence. Tailor your CV and improve your visibility on LinkedIn with keywords aligned to the competences required for roles you’re interested in.
2. Understand the market
Is there demand? Yes, and it’s growing. APM’s Golden Thread report gives us a clear picture of where the project profession is heading. Project management contributes £186 billion to the UK economy per year, and supports over 2.3 million professionals. The need for project professionals with experience spans industries and sectors from infrastructure and construction to digital transformation and public services.
The Golden Thread report also highlights a persistent skills gap. Certain sectors, like transport, defence and technology face challenges in finding leaders with the expertise and vision that will drive major programmes. If you’re a senior project manager, this is the perfect opportunity for you, especially if you’re willing to invest in your development and step into more strategic roles.
Employers don’t just look for credentials; they want project leaders who can effectively influence senior stakeholders, navigate ambiguity and align delivery with business objectives. If you’re updating your CV or LinkedIn, reframe your experience to demonstrate more than what you delivered: emphasise how, the outcomes achieved, and the value added to the organisation.
3. Consider advanced qualifications
Advanced qualifications can set you apart; think about formalising your expertise to open doors to more senior or specialised roles. One of the most respected is the Chartered Project Professional (ChPP) standard. Chartered status recognises not only your technical ability, but your leadership, ethical conduct and commitment to ongoing development. It’s the golden standard in project management; seen by the profession as a benchmark of excellence.
“Since gaining my chartership…I’ve worked in energy, I’ve worked in pharmaceuticals, I’ve worked actually in projects that are part of the tech industry. So having that chartered standard has really been able to kind of demonstrate that breadth of real, deep domain knowledge,” says Nicola Benjamin ChPP, MAPM, reflecting on the personal and professional impact of achieving the status.
Another option to consider is the Major Project Leadership Specialist Certificate, designed for those of you managing large-scale, high-risk programmes in government and complex environments. It focuses on relationship management with multi-level stakeholders, decision-making and accountability, strategic risk management and leadership in ambiguous environments, as well as other areas. Strengthening your credibility through assessments, certifications and training will spotlight you for senior positions.
4. Build your professional network with purpose
Your next opportunity might come from a conversation. Don’t underestimate the power of a strong network. APM has created opportunities for networking with a wide range of events, like national conferences, regional meetups and online webinars. These valuable spaces help you connect with professionals and stay informed about the latest developments in projects.
Getting involved in one of the many Interest Networks is another excellent way for you to deepen your involvement in the project community, gain knowledge and find likeminded professionals. Whether you’re interested in PMOs, sustainability, AI or risk management, any of the networks will give you the chance to build your presence within a professional niche.
And if someone you’ve met from an event or network is thinking about hiring; has an opening in their organisation; or even knows someone else who’s hiring, your name could be the first one they mention.
5. Strengthen your executive presence
As you move into more senior positions, how you present yourself becomes increasingly important. Executive presence is about credibility, leadership and influence, as well as visibility. Senior project professionals aren’t just managing major projects or programmes, they’re also shaping conversations and bringing others along with them. There are a wide range of activities that can help establish you as a senior leader.
Consider writing a blog or thought pieces for APM’s Project journal; the highly esteemed quarterly publication that’s delivered to APM members and corporate partners. This will demonstrate your leadership and commitment to project management beyond your day job and help position you as a voice within the profession.
You could also become a volunteer, present a webinar, join a panel discussion or mentor other professionals. This will build your confidence as a leader and support the fast-growing project community you’re part of.
Owning your future
Making the next move isn’t just about a promotion, it’s about aligning your strengths, interests and values with work you’re passionate about. Keep your eyes open for positions where you’ll thrive, and set alerts for project roles you’re interested in. With the right mindset and community support, the path is already taking shape. Now it’s yours to walk.