Australian Standards Framework LEVEL 6

The award at this level is appropriate to a

PROGRAM MANAGER/PROJECT DIRECTOR*

The function of a PROGRAM MANAGER (also referred to as PROJECT DIRECTOR) is to ensure that the overall objectives of the programs of projects for which he/she is responsible are aligned with the societal, business and strategic objectives of the organisation in which they are run, and are achieved to the desired quality in a timely and cost/resource efficient manner. To achieve this the function of a PROGRAM MANAGER ensures that all projects within his/her programs of projects align with the program objectives and that all project managers within these programs work collaboratively, are sufficiently competent for the level and type of project they are managing, and are provided with the appropriate support and resources to achieve the desired outcomes of their respective projects.

The application of the skills and knowledge in order to be deemed competent at this function:

“… is likely to be under limited guidance in line with a broad plan, budget or strategy. Responsibility and defined accountability for the management and output of the work of others and for a defined function or functions may be involved.

Competency at this level involves the self-directed development of knowledge with substantial depth across a number of areas and/or mastery of a specialised area with a range of skills. Application is to major functions in either varied or highly specific contexts.

Competencies are normally used independently and are substantially non-routine. Significant judgement is required in planning, design, technical or supervisory functions related to products, services, operations or processes.”

(National Training Board Policy and Guidelines 1992)

The competency standards detailed in the following have not been developed from an analysis of the project management function or industry practises in complex workplace environments. They are based wholly on a review of the National Competency Standards for Project Management (endorsed 1996) and the Project Management domain of the BSB01 Business Services Training Package (endorsed 2003). These standards should therefore be contextualised to organisational and workplace practises when employed as a measurement of on-the-job competence.

* Some organisations call their senior project managers either a Program Manager or Project Director. Essentially, a Program Manager manages a program of projects while a Project Director has strategic level responsibilities for a multi-faceted project.

Back to About the award