What Does an Implementation Manager Do?

Implementation managers are responsible for overseeing the implementation of new systems, processes or other initiatives. They work with a wide range of stakeholders—from executives to engineers and designers—to ensure that everything goes according to plan.

Implementation managers may also be tasked with developing plans for implementing new initiatives in the future. This might include creating checklists or templates that can be used by other employees in the organization.

Implementation Manager Job Duties

Implementation managers typically have a wide range of responsibilities, which can include:

• Supporting other members of the team with tasks such as testing new features or providing documentation about the project’s status
• Developing and executing project plans to ensure that all implementation phases are completed on time and within budget
• Communicating with stakeholders to identify and resolve issues throughout implementation process
• Managing all aspects of an implementation project from start to finish, including planning, organizing, overseeing work flow, and communicating progress to key stakeholders
• Monitoring and analyzing performance metrics to ensure that goals are being met throughout the implementation process
• Maintaining an inventory of all software licenses and creating reports on usage rates to help track license compliance
• Reviewing project plans, meeting minutes, and other documentation to ensure that all tasks have been completed according to plan
• Conducting training on the new software or system to users who will be impacted by the implementation
• Conducting post-implementation audits to ensure that all changes have been implemented successfully and that the new software is being used effectively

Implementation Manager Salary & Outlook

Implementation managers’ salaries vary depending on their level of education, years of experience, and the size and industry of the company. They may also earn additional compensation in the form of bonuses or commissions.

• Median Annual Salary: $85,000 ($40.87/hour)
• Top 10% Annual Salary: $135,000 ($64.9/hour)

The employment of implementation managers is expected to grow faster than average over the next decade.

Demand for implementation managers will increase as organizations continue to implement new technologies and business processes. Organizations will need to ensure that these changes are implemented correctly and that they work as intended.

Related: Implementation Manager Interview Questions and Answers

Implementation Manager Job Requirements

To become an implementation manager, you may need to have the following:

Education: Employers typically require implementation managers to have a bachelor’s degree in a related field, such as information technology, computer science or business administration. Some employers may hire candidates who have a two-year associate’s degree or a four-year bachelor’s degree in a related field.

Training & Experience: Many companies will require that an implementation manager has at least five years of experience in a related role. Some companies may require that the candidate has at least 10 years of experience. An implementation manager will usually receive on-the-job training in the first few months of employment. This training will help the candidate learn the specific processes and procedures of the company.

Certifications & Licenses: There are several certification programs available that may help an implementation manager better perform their job. Certifications allow professionals to gain additional knowledge about their responsibilities and further their career advancement opportunities.

Implementation Manager Skills

Implementation managers need the following skills in order to be successful:

Communication: Communication is the act of conveying information to others. As an implementation manager, you may be responsible for communicating project details to stakeholders, communicating with project managers to ensure that all tasks are completed and communicating with clients to ensure that they understand the project’s progress.

Project management: Project management is the ability to oversee the completion of a project on time and within budget. As an implementation manager, you may be responsible for managing the implementation of a software system or other large project. Effective project management requires the ability to plan, organize and delegate tasks. It also requires the ability to monitor the project’s progress and make adjustments as needed.

Leadership: Leadership skills allow you to motivate and inspire others to work together to achieve a common goal. As an implementation manager, you may be responsible for leading a team of project managers who are overseeing the implementation of a new system. Leadership skills can help you to guide and direct your team to ensure that they are working efficiently and effectively.

Problem-solving: Problem-solving skills allow you to identify and propose solutions to challenges. As an implementation manager, you may be responsible for finding solutions to problems that arise during the implementation process. Your ability to identify the source of the problem and propose a solution can help you and your team complete projects on time and within budget.

Decision-making: As an implementation manager, you need to make decisions about how to best implement a new system or process. You can use your decision-making skills to analyze the current situation, gather information and evaluate potential solutions. Your ability to make effective decisions can help you find the best solution for your organization and help you achieve your goals.

Implementation Manager Work Environment

The work environment for an implementation manager is usually in an office setting, although travel may be required for meetings with clients or other business partners. The job is typically full-time, although some managers may work longer hours to meet deadlines or to oversee the work of subordinates. Implementation managers must be able to handle stress well, as they often have to juggle multiple projects and deadlines at the same time. They must also be able to work well under pressure and be able to think quickly and make decisions in a fast-paced environment.

Implementation Manager Trends

Here are three trends influencing how implementation managers work. Implementation managers will need to stay up-to-date on these developments to keep their skills relevant and maintain a competitive advantage in the workplace.

The Need for a More Agile Approach to Implementation

The trend of implementing new technologies and systems is becoming increasingly more agile, as businesses are realizing the importance of being able to quickly adapt to changing market conditions.

This means that implementation managers will need to be able to work in a more agile manner, which may require them to change the way they do things such as planning and tracking projects. In addition, they will need to be able to communicate effectively with stakeholders and be able to manage their expectations.

More Focus on Project Management

Project management has become an increasingly important role in business, as it allows companies to better manage their resources and ensure that projects are completed on time and within budget.

As a result, implementation managers will need to focus on project management skills in order to be successful. This includes understanding how to manage teams, set goals, and track progress.

A Greater Emphasis on Customer Experience

Customer experience is becoming increasingly important for businesses, as they realize that it is what sets them apart from their competitors.

Implementation managers can play a key role in creating a positive customer experience by ensuring that all aspects of the implementation process go smoothly. They can also help to create a culture of customer service within their organization.

How to Become an Implementation Manager

An implementation manager career path can be a great way to get your foot in the door of a company. As an implementation manager, you’ll be responsible for ensuring that new systems and processes are implemented correctly and on time. This role requires strong communication skills, as well as an understanding of business processes.

To become an implementation manager, it’s important to have experience working in a similar role. You should also have a thorough understanding of the systems and processes that you’re implementing. Additionally, it’s helpful to have knowledge of project management techniques.

Advancement Prospects

The implementation manager is responsible for the successful implementation of software products and features. They work closely with the development team to ensure that the product meets the needs of the customer. The implementation manager is also responsible for training users on the new software and providing support during the transition period.

As an implementation manager, you will have the opportunity to work with a variety of people and teams. You will need to be able to effectively communicate with both technical and non-technical staff. You should also be able to work independently and be self-motivated.

The implementation manager position is a great stepping stone for those interested in project management or product management. With experience, you may be able to move into a senior management position.

Implementation Manager Job Description Example

At [CompanyX], we understand that change can be difficult, but we also know that it can be a powerful tool for growth. Our company is seeking an experienced implementation manager to help us successfully navigate change and ensure that new initiatives are executed flawlessly. The ideal candidate will have a proven track record in leading and managing complex projects from start to finish. They will be highly skilled in project management, stakeholder communication, and change management. Additionally, they will have the ability to think strategically and act tactically, with a focus on achieving desired outcomes.

Duties & Responsibilities

• Serve as the primary point of contact for clients during their software implementation
• Work with clients to scope out project requirements and objectives, and develop detailed project plans accordingly
• Manage day-to-day project execution, ensuring tasks are completed on time and within budget
• Monitor project progress and performance against key indicators, and take corrective action when necessary
• Effectively communicate project status updates to all relevant parties
• Serve as a subject matter expert on our software products and solutions
• Train new users on the software, and provide ongoing support as needed
• Develop and maintain strong relationships with clients, third-party vendors, and other team members
• Proactively identify risks and issues that could impact project success, and develop mitigation plans accordingly
• Handle multiple projects simultaneously while maintaining a high level of quality and attention to detail
• Continuously seek ways to improve project delivery methods and processes
• Stay up-to-date on industry trends and best practices

Required Skills and Qualifications

• Bachelor’s degree in business, project management, or related field
• 5+ years experience in a professional project management role
• Proven track record of successful project implementations
• Strong understanding of software development processes
• Excellent communication, presentation, and interpersonal skills
• Ability to work independently and with a team to meet deadlines

Preferred Skills and Qualifications

• PMP certification
• Master’s degree in business or project management
• Experience with Agile methodology
• Experience in the software industry