Marketing project managers primarily work to keep a project running smoothly, on time and free of as many complications as possible. They will effectively oversee the conception of an idea, all the way up to its execution and follow-up. Marketing can be a very stressful environment, and it's the job of marketing project managers to reduce the number of variables that can disrupt a project from getting done on time. It's very common for marketing projects, such as advertisements, to be completed on/by a very strict deadline, so the project manager must observe the big picture of the project at hand. They also offer advice and assistance in speeding up certain processes to aid the timely completion of the project itself.
The specific roles of a project manager in marketing are varied and require a great degree of flexibility. It may be necessary for the project manager to suggest new software or services that can enhance or speed up an area of a project when necessary. Alternatively, it may be assistance in the form of simple time-keeping, which ensures that everybody involved from the ground up is on the same pace. Marketing project managers may not always be seen as a senior position, but rather a member of the marketing team.
Most jobs of this kind will require a BA in either marketing or business/business management. Depending on the size of the projects being handled, some organizations may require further qualifications along with work experience that demonstrates an ability to handle large operations.
Marketing project managers can expect to work a full week with additional time required to fit around a project's schedule. Due to the seasonal nature of marketing projects, it's not unusual for a project to dictate a large number of hours in order to stay on schedule. Conversely, in between projects a project manager may have a lighter workload and fewer hours as they prep for the next task.
Project Manager, Marketing Tasks
- Design advertisements and marketing campaigns to reach potential customers.
- Supervise marketing projects, assigning tasks, overseeing work, and ensuring deadlines are met.
- Develop and implement strategies to promote a company's brand or product.