Project Director

What does a project director do?As a project director will be responsible for overseeing all aspects of a project to ensure the quality is a high standard, and that it is running to the timescales allowed.The job role of a project director involves the following duties:Monitoring build progress, overseeing finance and ensuring project qualityMaking strategic decisions and providing leadership and direction to project managers to implement those decisionsMeeting with clients, stakeholders and project managers to report on project progressLiaising with clients and building strong working relationshipsDevising cost-effective plans to enable effective project completionManaging risks to avoid delays or reputational damageEnsuring permits and legal papers are secured ahead of the projectManaging project managers and enabling them to supervise and manage their own teamsWorking in an office and on a construction site.How to become a project directorThere 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. Usually, a project director will have had several years’ experience in the construction industry.You may need a Construction Skills Certification Scheme (CSCS) card to work on a construction site.UniversityYou could complete a 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.Equivalent entry requirements explainedFind a university courseFunding adviceCollege/training providerYour local college or training provider may offer construction-related courses at higher national certificate (HNC) or diploma (HND) level, which would help you on your career path to becoming a project director.Find a course near youFunding adviceApprenticeshipAn apprenticeship with a construction firm is a good way into the industry. Apprenticeships are open to anyone over the age of 16. As an apprentice, you will be fully employed by your company and expected to work a minimum of 30 hours a week. Your time will be split between on-the-job experience and a college or training provider.You could study a higher or degree apprenticeship in construction project management or business and management.Guide to apprenticeshipsWorkIf you’ve already worked in supporting roles within project teams and have proven management experience or qualifications, you may be able to apply directly for a role as a project manager or director.Work experienceWork 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.Find out more about work experienceSkillsAdditional skills which may benefit anyone looking to become a project director include:Leadership and business management skillsKnowledge of computer operating systems, hardware and softwarePersistence and determinationAble to use your initiativeBe thorough and pay attention to detailMaths knowledgeExcellent verbal communication skillsQualificationsTo become a project director, you could complete a:Level 7 NVQ in Construction Senior ManagementTo Become a Project Director, You Will Need:Scottish National 5 A-C including Maths and English, A Levels and previous experienceYou Could Complete A:Level 5 SVQ in Construction Senior Manager at SCQF Level 11To Become a Project Director, You Will Need:GCSE A*-C including Maths and English, some may require A Levels and previous experienceYou Could Complete A:Level 7 NVQ in Construction Senior ManagementHow much could you earn as a project director?The expected salary for a project director varies as you become more experienced.Newly trained project directors can start at £55000Trained with experience project directors can earn up to £150000*Salaries depend on location, employer, level of responsibility, any overtime you may do, and whether you have completed an industry recognised training route. Salaries have been collected from multiple industry sources