Project Director

What does a project director do?

A project director is responsible for overseeing all aspects of a project to ensure the quality is high, timelines are met, and the project runs within budget.

• Monitoring build progress, overseeing finance and ensuring project quality
• Making strategic decisions and providing leadership and direction to project managers to implement those decisions
• Meeting with clients, stakeholders and project managers to report on project progress
• Liaising with clients and building strong working relationships
• Devising cost‑effective plans to enable effective project completion
• Managing risks to avoid delays or reputational damage
• Ensuring permits and legal papers are secured ahead of the project
• Managing project managers and enabling them to supervise and manage their own teams
• Working in an office and on a construction site

There are several routes to becoming a project director. You can gain the qualifications you need by completing a university or college course, or an apprenticeship. You should explore the options to find out which is the right one for you.

University courses:

• Foundation degree, Higher National Diploma (HND), undergraduate degree or postgraduate award accredited by the Chartered Institute of Building (CIOB)
• Relevant subjects include construction management, business and project management or building studies

College or training provider:

• Higher National Certificate (HNC) or Diploma (HND) level courses that help you on your career path to becoming a project director

An apprenticeship with a construction firm is a good way into the industry. Apprenticeships are open to anyone over the age of 16 and involve full employment by your company while you work a minimum of 30 hours a week, combining on‑job experience with college or training provider lessons.

Work experience is essential to gaining employment within the construction industry. You could gain this at school, or by working weekends and holidays with a company or relative who works as a project director. Potential employers will always be pleased to see work experience listed on your CV.

• Leadership and business management skills
• Knowledge of computer operating systems, hardware and software
• Persistence and determination
• Able to use