The pathway
How you actually get there, here
How you become one varies far more by country than what one does. This is the UK route. Most people take one of these ways in; the right one depends on where you're starting from.
- 1
Senior Project Support Analyst (Internal Consulting)
3-5 yearsSkills to master
- Ownership of complex workstreams, independent problem-solving, stakeholder engagement, initial project planning, and mentoring junior staff.
You're ready to move on when
- Consistently delivers workstream objectives on time and to a high standard.
- Proactively identifies and resolves issues within their scope.
- Receives positive feedback from senior consultants on their ability to manage project elements.
- Has successfully guided or mentored at least one junior team member.
- 2
Business Analyst (Internal or External)
4-6 yearsSkills to master
- Requirements gathering, process mapping (as-is/to-be), solution design, and a strong understanding of business operations and pain points.
You're ready to move on when
- Has led the analysis phase for multiple projects, translating business needs into clear requirements.
- Demonstrates a strong understanding of project lifecycles and the importance of project governance.
- Has experience working closely with project managers and contributing to project planning.
- Shows a desire to move into a more delivery-focused, end-to-end project ownership role.
- 3
Project Coordinator / Junior Project Manager (External PMO)
5-8 yearsSkills to master
- Full project lifecycle management, budget control, risk management, vendor management, and formal reporting to senior stakeholders.
You're ready to move on when
- Has successfully managed small projects or significant phases of larger projects in an external environment.
- Holds a recognised project management certification (PMP/PRINCE2).
- Can demonstrate strong stakeholder management and communication skills in a client-facing context.
- Is looking for a role with a strong internal focus, driving change within a single organisation.