This article will explain how the work of project managers and controllers differ. We’ll give you examples of typical duties for each position and also run through some of the exciting projects underway at BAE Systems – where innovation and responsibility go hand-in-hand.
As one of the leading employers for project manager and project controller jobs in the UK, when you join us, you could find yourself working on some of the world's most advanced defence projects, making a positive impact for our clients, our colleagues and our communities, here and around the globe – playing your part in pioneering progress and protecting the future.
How do the roles of project managers and project controllers differ?
A project manager gives direction to people working together on a project. Project controllers meanwhile focus on costs and timelines, working closely with managers to solve any issues.
These two different project management roles play a vital part in ensuring success. Whilst project managers drive everyone forward and keep them aligned, controllers help ensure that budgets and deadlines are met.
What does a project manager do?
As a project manager, you’ll be the beating heart of a project. You’ll not only define the goals, tasks, and timeline. You’ll also need to keep everyone working together effectively once the project is underway.
Here’s an overview of the typical duties of a project manager:
- Leadership – Lighting up a path to success, motivating all members of the team and keeping everyone pulling in the same direction.
- Scope – Turning a top-level plan into a series of tasks and assigning these jobs to those with the skills needed.
- Schedule – Establishing when certain tasks will need to be done and plotting these into a firm schedule with target deadlines.
- Communication – Managing relationships with all stakeholders and keeping them informed to ensure expectations are met.
- Problem solving – Anticipating potential issues and rectifying problems that may crop up throughout the project.
What does a project controller do?
Project controllers own the financial aspect of projects. In this role, you’ll keep track of what has been spent and make sure resources have been spread wisely.
Your relationship with the project manager will be really important as you work together to deliver projects within the agreed budget.
Using your excellent attention to detail and financial acumen, these are the typical duties you’ll carry out:
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Financial management – Forecasting costs, tracking expenses, and allocating resources.
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Data analytics – Guiding the direction of the project with insights into trends and patterns.
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Risk assessment – Working with project managers to keep costs at an agreed level and avoid extra spending.
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Compliance – Ensuring that the project complies with company policies and financial regulations.
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Reporting – Measuring expenditure and reporting this back to stakeholders.
Project management opportunities at BAE Systems
When you join BAE Systems in a project management role, you’ll get the chance to make a big difference in your daily work.
We bring together world-first projects piece-by-piece, pushing the limits of what’s possible across land, sea, air and cyber.
You could find yourself working on one of the most complex engineering projects ever undertaken – the construction of the Dreadnought class submarines.
Or perhaps you’ll work to develop a global fleet of F-35 fighter aircrafts or Type 26 combat ships. Your project talents could even see your work at the forefront of space technology.
Whatever the project, you can be sure your role at BAE Systems will be the experience of a lifetime. Whether you’re just launching your project management career or looking to progress – you can expect to work alongside some of the world’s brightest minds and be empowered to be your best.
This is a place where you’ll have limitless opportunities, and the support and encouragement you need to achieve your personal career ambitions, whatever they may be.
I feel valued here and I can see the contribution that my work is making, which makes me feel very proud. I get regular feedback from my managers but I never feel micromanaged. I'm trusted to make decisions and get on with things.Dolapo, Project Manager, Glasgow
Learn more about BAE Systems
Visit our project management page to find out more. You may also want to browse our current vacancies for project manager and project controller jobs or read inspiring stories from our employees.