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What is an executive project manager and how to become one

Updated January 8, 2025
3 min read
Quoted experts
Nicole Jones Young Ph.D.,
Meaghan Goodman Ph.D.

The executive project manager is a project management expert. They are well-versed in the practical and theoretical aspects of project management and aware and able to use the various project management tools. A project manager possesses different skills, including critical-thinking, problem-solving, negotiation, communication, conflict resolution, and teamwork skills. The average annual salary of an executive project manager is $124,542.

An executive project manager is responsible for overseeing the planning and implementation of projects. They monitor the progress of the projects and submit reports to all stakeholders. They define the tasks and resources required to complete a project. As an executive project manager, you ensure project completion within set timelines and budget. You are in charge of directing, executing, and completing specific projects. You also ensure projects meet the company's standards. The executive project manager monitors problems and risks and proffers solutions.

What general advice would you give to an executive project manager?

Nicole Jones Young Ph.D.Nicole Jones Young Ph.D. LinkedIn profile

Assistant Professor of Organizational Behavior, Franklin and Marshall College

Be flexible. The COVID-19 pandemic has resulted in a lot of uncertainty, but has created new opportunities in others. Staying flexible allows individuals to shift focus away from industries or occupations that may be in decline, and re-focus on employment opportunities that may be more aligned with our current moment.
ScoreExecutive Project ManagerUS Average
Salary
7.6

Avg. Salary $99,099

Avg. Salary $59,228

Diversity
3.4
Race

American Indian and Alaska Native 0.66%

Asian 8.82%

Black or African American 7.46%

Hispanic or Latino 12.49%

Unknown 4.69%

White 65.89%

Gender

female 40.35%

male 59.65%

Age - 47
Race

American Indian and Alaska Native 3.00%

Asian 7.00%

Black or African American 14.00%

Hispanic or Latino 19.00%

White 57.00%

Gender

female 47.00%

male 53.00%

Age - 47
Stress level
7.4

Stress level is high

7.1 - high

Complexity level
8.5

Complexity level is advanced

7 - challenging

Work life balance
3.7

Work life balance is poor

6.4 - fair

Executive project manager career paths

Key steps to become an executive project manager

  1. Explore executive project manager education requirements

    Most common executive project manager degrees

    Bachelor's

    69.1 %

    Master's

    16.0 %

    Associate

    9.3 %
  2. Start to develop specific executive project manager skills

    SkillsPercentages
    Project Management25.82%
    Project Scope6.83%
    Business Development4.15%
    Infrastructure3.48%
    Development Projects3.39%
  3. Research executive project manager duties and responsibilities

    • Lead professional services engagements from assessment analysis to completion by partnering directly with healthcare providers to enhance revenue collection and efficiency.
    • Foster IBM executive awareness of PMO by implementing standardize management system, ensuring consistent and efficient delivery to client.
    • Act as part of the PMO review board to ensure business requirements are defined and assign.
    • Institute technology processes to compliment the new healthcare facility and current business operations in order to increase productivity and patient experience.
  4. Get executive project manager experience

  5. Apply for executive project manager jobs

    Now it's time to start searching for an executive project manager job. Consider the tips below for a successful job search:

    1. Browse job boards for relevant postings
    2. Consult your professional network
    3. Reach out to companies you're interested in working for directly
    4. Watch out for job scams

How did you land your first executive project manager job

Zippi

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Average executive project manager salary

The average executive project manager salary in the United States is $99,099 per year or $48 per hour. Executive project manager salaries range between $64,000 and $151,000 per year.

Average executive project manager salary
$99,099 Yearly
$47.64 hourly

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How do executive project managers rate their job?

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Executive project manager reviews

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A zippia user wrote a review on Feb 2023
Pros

I like to work with a team. Satisfaction of seeing the successful completion of a project

Cons

Strict deadlines, and stakeholders. Feeling undervalued or underappreciated.


profile
A zippia user wrote a review on Aug 2020
Pros

keeping the company vibrant in the marketplace and returning maximum shareholder value

Cons

have to change my mindset


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A zippia user wrote a review on Jun 2020
Pros

I enjoy problem-solving and identifying a path to completing a complex project. I like to ensure that moving parts come together smoothly and communicating successes and celebrating with the team.

Cons

Without the right support from project sponsors, a project manager is doomed to failure. There is an enormous amount of responsibility on a project manager to deliver a product on time and on budget, though without proper authority or backing, it's basically wheel spinning.


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Updated January 8, 2025

Zippia Research Team
Zippia Team

Editorial Staff

The Zippia Research Team has spent countless hours reviewing resumes, job postings, and government data to determine what goes into getting a job in each phase of life. Professional writers and data scientists comprise the Zippia Research Team.

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