IT Project Manager

- 01-12/2019

Responsibilities:

valuation of contracts and inquiries from clients,
managing internal projects of implemented digital products
negotiations with clients regarding estimates and contracts
Project management officer

Everyday Life of an IT Project Manager in an Advertising Agency: Challenges and Responsibilities

Working in an online advertising agency as an IT Project Manager is a position full of challenges, responsibility and intensive management projects. Every day brings something new – from client meetings, through contract negotiations, to team management and coordination with different departments. This role requires not only technical knowledge but also soft skills, time management and problem-solving skills. In this article, I will try to explain what everyday life looks like in this role, what the most common challenges we encounter, and how we deal with them in an advertising agency.

1. Contract and Client Query Valuation: A Key Point in the Process

Every project starts with a client's query, who wants to implement something unique in the digital space. My job is to thoroughly analyze the client's requirements and prepare a quote that is both realistic and competitive. At this stage, I have to take into account not only the scope of work but also the expected difficulties, resources, lead time and any possible risks. The quote is key – it can decide whether the client will be convinced to cooperate, but also the later success of the project.

It often happens that the client does not have an exact picture of what they want to achieve. In such situations, I have to show creativity, consulting with the technical team and the creative department to present a proposal that meets expectations but also fits into the budget. It is important to estimate time and resources well so that the project does not exceed the budget and time, which is one of the biggest challenges in the industry.

2. Internal project management: Coordination and management of the team

Once the quote is accepted and the project starts, my role becomes even more complex. As an IT Project Manager, I am responsible for the overall coordination of the project, from its inception to implementation and settlement. In an advertising agency, we usually work on digital projects, such as websites, mobile applications, or e-commerce platforms, which means that the project must be closely linked to the client's marketing goals.

My job is to keep an eye on the schedule, control the quality of the team's work, and ensure that the project is delivered on time and in line with expectations. I work with many departments: from programmers, through designers, to copywriters and marketers. Each of these teams has its own specifics, and the Project Manager's job is to keep everyone on the same page, making sure that everyone understands the goals and priorities.

Technical issues also arise in the work, which requires quick decision-making. Often, you have to find a compromise between what has been planned and what is feasible at a given time. This is particularly difficult in the advertising industry, where deadlines are often tight and the client expects a "perfect" solution in a short time.

3. Client Negotiations: Balancing Expectations and Reality

Negotiations are a permanent element of an IT Project Manager's work. On the one hand, I have to look after the company's interests, on the other - the client's satisfaction. It often turns out that the client has a specific budget, but wants solutions that go beyond that budget. My job is to balance these expectations and propose solutions that are realistic both technically and financially.

In negotiations with the client, what counts is not only the ability to present an offer but also the ability to manage expectations and resolve conflicts that may arise during the project. Often, it is about finding a compromise between expectations and reality. This may mean eliminating some functions, reducing the scope of the project, or extending the deadline.

4. PMO Responsibilities: Process Management and Standardization

As part of the PMO (Project Management Office), I am also responsible for standardizing the company's project management processes. This means that in addition to managing individual projects, I also have an impact on how the entire organization manages its projects.

In the framework of my duties in the PMO, I have to develop and implement project management standards, monitor project progress, and analyze risks and results. I regularly prepare reports that allow the company to track process efficiency and identify areas for improvement. This means that we have to constantly improve our work methods and respond to changes in the company and the industry.

5. Challenges and problems that I encounter daily

Working in an advertising agency as an IT Project Manager is associated with many challenges. I often encounter situations in which deadlines are extremely tight and the client changes their mind at the last minute. In such situations, you have to be flexible, make decisions quickly, and effectively manage the client's expectations.

Another problem that we struggle with on a daily basis is team management. The project team may consist of people with different skills and experience, which requires adapting the management style to different needs. Often, you have to deal with internal misunderstandings, communication problems, or delays in the work of the teams.

In addition, in the digital advertising industry, technological changes and the need to quickly adapt to new trends are everyday life. I have to keep up with the latest IT news to be able to offer clients solutions that are innovative, but also stable and safe.

6. Summary: The role of an IT Project Manager in an advertising agency

Working as an IT Project Manager in an advertising agency means not only managing projects, but also actively participating in shaping the vision of digital products that will meet the needs of customers. This is a role that requires multitasking, problem-solving skills, negotiation skills and effective team management.

We face challenges every day that require flexibility, creativity and the ability to react quickly to changing circumstances. Although it is not always easy, the satisfaction of delivering a successful project that brings real benefits to the client is invaluable.

In the work of a Project Manager in an advertising agency, it is crucial not to forget about people - both team members and clients. Only then will you be able to achieve success in this dynamic and challenging industry.