How to Become a Program Manager: Australian Careers in Business Management

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SIS50115

Diploma of Sport and Recreation Management

Do you have a passion for sport and recreation and a strong head for business? We’ve got the right fitness course for you! Providing you with an understanding of the daily operations of a fitness centre, this SIS50115 Diploma of Sport and Recreation Management from the Australian Institute of Personal Trainers (AIPT), readies you for a career in management that draws on your skills to plan and manage events, fitness programs and develop a fitness business.

Armed with this qualification and your new set of practical skills you’ll be able to manage a successful and thriving fitness centre or facility. Learn how to coordinate client service activities, develop marketing strategies, obtain sponsorships, manage finances, recruit and lead staff, maintain WHS systems and more. AIPT is all about giving their students a competitive edge, which is why this course offers you electives that’ll help build your knowledge of event planning, fitness equipment management and more.

Delivered online by AIPT, your coursework covers a wide range of competencies, equipping you with the knowledge needed to manage staff, develop marketing plans, secure sponsorship, coordinate client services, organise events, develop business relationships, manage stock, develop business plans, manage finances and oversee the daily operation of a fitness centre.

Please note: This is a fee-for-service program.

Please note: this course is currently in a transition period (superseded due to Government-mandated updates), with our updated course due for release in the next few months. Rest assured, completion of this course version before 31 December 2024 will still provide you with a valid and quality outcome.

Online

Community Sport Manager, Facilities Manager, Program Manager, Recreation Officer, Recreational Youth Activities Worker, Sports Development Officer

Price may vary

Up to 24 months

BSB40520

Certificate IV in Leadership and Management

Excel as a leader and help your team thrive with the core skills and management theory you’ll learn with this 100% online BSB40520 Certificate IV in Leadership and Management qualification from Australian Institute of Management (AIM) Education and Training.

Designed to enhance the management capacity of emerging leaders across a diverse range of industries and professions, this course offers you a range of opportunities for developing practical, industry-relevant skills.

You’ll learn how to lead effective teams and develop efficient work plans, strategise for the workplace, write and articulate complex ideas, and comply with operational health and safety and financial regulations. If multiple professionals from your workplace are interested in this course, AIM may further contextualise it to your industry, making this an excellent investment in the future of your business.

This course is delivered 100% online, requires roughly 10 hours of study per week and can be completed in 12-18 months.

Online

Business Development Manager, Business Manager, Change Manager, General Manager, HR Manager, Management Consultant, Program Manager, Project Leader, Project Team Leader, Team Leader

Price may vary

12-18 months part-time

Graduate Certificate in Public Health

Build your health career. Strengthen population health and wellbeing with a Graduate Certificate in Public Health at La Trobe University.

Gain vital skills, up-to-date insights into public health and learn how you can help prevent the outbreak of diseases and protect and improve community health. Explore public health practice, approaches to public health problems and how to conceive, create and evaluate achievable public health initiatives. Plus learn about different social and cultural perspectives.

Use your background in health to gain advanced knowledge, specialised skills and key personal abilities required to build a career helping others thrive. You’ll graduate with the skills, knowledge and experience you need to seek employment in a range of coordination, management, operational and administrative roles in the public health sector, within Australia and overseas.

Online

Community Health Worker, Health Information Manager, Health Policy Advisor, Program Manager, Project Manager

Price may vary

6 months full-time or 12 months part-time

On this page

What is a Program Manager?

What will I do?

What skills do I need?

Resources

What is a Program Manager?

The role of a Program Manager is both dynamic and rewarding, offering a unique opportunity to lead and coordinate various projects within an organisation. Program Managers are responsible for overseeing multiple related projects, ensuring they align with the strategic goals of the organisation. They play a crucial role in planning, executing, and finalising projects according to strict deadlines and within budget, while also managing the expectations of stakeholders. This position is ideal for individuals who thrive in a collaborative environment and enjoy problem-solving on a larger scale.

In their day-to-day responsibilities, Program Managers develop and implement strategic plans that guide the direction of projects. They monitor progress, manage resources, and ensure that all aspects of the program are running smoothly. This includes coordinating with project managers, team members, and external partners to facilitate communication and collaboration. Additionally, they are tasked with identifying potential risks and developing mitigation strategies to ensure project success. Their ability to adapt to changing circumstances and maintain a positive outlook is essential in navigating the complexities of program management.

Common tasks for Program Managers include conducting regular meetings to assess project status, preparing reports for senior management, and ensuring compliance with organisational policies and procedures. They also engage in stakeholder management, which involves building and maintaining relationships with key individuals who have a vested interest in the program’s outcomes. This aspect of the role is vital, as it helps to foster a supportive environment that encourages collaboration and innovation.

Overall, a career as a Program Manager is not only about managing projects but also about inspiring teams and driving organisational success. With the right skills and mindset, individuals in this role can make a significant impact, contributing to the growth and development of their organisation while enjoying a fulfilling and challenging career path.

Career snapshots For Program Managers

Policy and Planning Managers play a crucial role in shaping the strategic direction of organisations by coordinating policy advice and strategic planning. This career is characterised by a diverse workforce, with a significant representation of women and a median age that reflects a mature professional demographic.

Average Age: 44 years
Gender Distribution: 57% female
Hours Worked: Average of 44 hours per week, with 88% working full-time
Median Weekly Earnings: $2,584
Unemployment Rate: Relatively low, with a stable demand for skilled professionals
Employment Numbers: Approximately 35,000 individuals are employed in this role
Projected Growth: An annual increase of about 2,100 positions is expected

This career path is not only rewarding in terms of financial compensation but also offers opportunities for professional growth and development within various sectors, including public administration, healthcare, and financial services.

Source: Australian Bureau of Statistics (ABS), Labour Force Survey, 2023.

What will I do?

Program Managers play a crucial role in ensuring that projects and initiatives are executed efficiently and effectively within an organisation. They are responsible for overseeing the planning, implementation, and tracking of specific projects, ensuring that they align with the strategic goals of the organisation. This role requires a blend of leadership, communication, and analytical skills to manage resources, timelines, and stakeholder expectations. Day-to-day, Program Managers engage in a variety of tasks that contribute to the successful delivery of programs and projects.

Developing strategic plans – Creating and refining plans that outline the objectives, timelines, and resources needed for successful project execution.
Coordinating project teams – Leading and managing cross-functional teams to ensure collaboration and effective communication throughout the project lifecycle.
Monitoring project progress – Tracking the status of projects, identifying potential risks, and implementing corrective actions as necessary to keep projects on track.
Managing budgets – Overseeing financial resources allocated to projects, ensuring that expenditures align with budgetary constraints.
Engaging stakeholders – Communicating with stakeholders to gather requirements, provide updates, and address concerns related to project progress.
Conducting risk assessments – Identifying potential risks to project success and developing mitigation strategies to address them.
Reporting on project outcomes – Preparing and presenting reports that summarise project performance, outcomes, and lessons learned to senior management and stakeholders.
Facilitating training and development – Organising training sessions for team members to enhance their skills and ensure they are equipped to meet project demands.
Implementing best practices – Establishing and promoting best practices in project management to improve efficiency and effectiveness across the organisation.
Evaluating project success – Assessing the outcomes of completed projects to determine their success and areas for improvement in future initiatives.

What skills do I need?

A career as a Program Manager requires a diverse set of skills that blend leadership, strategic thinking, and effective communication. Successful Program Managers are adept at developing, implementing, and monitoring strategic plans and policies that align with organisational goals. They must possess strong analytical skills to assess project needs and outcomes, ensuring that resources are allocated efficiently and effectively. Additionally, they should be skilled in stakeholder engagement, as they often consult with government officials and board members, providing expert advice on policy and program issues.

Moreover, a Program Manager must demonstrate exceptional organisational abilities, managing multiple projects simultaneously while maintaining a clear focus on objectives and deadlines. Strong interpersonal skills are essential for fostering collaboration among team members and stakeholders, as well as for negotiating and representing the organisation in various forums. Continuous professional development, including relevant qualifications and training, can further enhance a Program Manager’s effectiveness in navigating the complexities of their role.

Skills/attributes

Strong leadership skills
Excellent communication abilities
Project management expertise
Strategic thinking and planning
Problem-solving skills
Ability to manage budgets and resources
Experience in stakeholder engagement
Analytical and critical thinking
Adaptability and flexibility
Team collaboration and motivation
Knowledge of relevant industry standards and regulations
Proficiency in project management software
Time management and organisational skills
Conflict resolution skills
Understanding of risk management principles

Resources

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How to Become a Program Manager: Australian Careers in Business Management

What is a Program Manager?

Career snapshots For Program Managers

What will I do?

What skills do I need?

Skills/attributes

Resources

Career Outcomes