What is a characteristic of a "working" project manager?

A "working" project manager is characterized by their ability to function effectively within a specific operational area while also managing projects. This role typically involves performing direct project management tasks as well as overseeing teams and ensuring that project objectives align with broader organizational goals. By acting as a functional manager, the project manager not only leads specific projects but also integrates management functions, such as resource allocation and team coordination, directly related to the task at hand.

This dual responsibility enriches the project manager’s role, as they balance project oversight with hands-on management of the functional aspects of their team's work. This approach ensures that the project manager remains deeply engaged with the day-to-day operations of their projects, increasing the likelihood of project success by addressing issues as they arise and maintaining communication with team members.

In contrast, focusing solely on project management may limit the project manager's effectiveness in understanding and responding to the intricacies of the team’s specific functions. Managing multiple projects simultaneously adds complexity, which can divert attention away from the functional management role. While overseeing subcontractors is a part of many project managers' duties, it does not encapsulate the broader, inherently engaged role of a working project manager, who integrates project management with functional oversight.