Part Time Project Manager Jobs: Complete Guide [2025]

Part-time project manager jobs offer professionals the flexibility to manage multiple projects across different organisations while maintaining work-life balance. In the UK, part-time project managers typically earn £400-£800 per day for 2-3 days per week, providing annual incomes of £40,000-£125,000 depending on experience and sector. This comprehensive guide explores everything you need to know about part-time project management roles in 2025.

What is a Part-Time Project Manager?

A part-time project manager is a professional who leads and coordinates projects for an organisation on a reduced hours or days basis, typically working 2-4 days per week rather than full-time. Unlike traditional employees, part-time project managers bring senior-level expertise to businesses that need project leadership but don't require or can't afford a full-time hire.

Part-time project managers differ from fractional or interim project managers primarily in terminology and market positioning. While "fractional" emphasises working across multiple clients simultaneously, "part-time" is more widely searched and better understood by job seekers and employers alike.

Key Characteristics of Part-Time PM Roles

• Flexible scheduling: Work 2-3 days per week, often with flexible timing
• Project-focused: Brought in for specific initiatives or transformation programmes
• Senior expertise: Typically requires 8-15+ years of project management experience
• Multiple engagements: Many part-time PMs work with 2-3 organisations simultaneously
• Results-driven: Focused on delivering measurable outcomes within defined timelines
• Remote-friendly: 67% of part-time project management roles offer remote or hybrid working

Part-Time Project Manager Salary and Day Rates UK

Understanding compensation is crucial when considering part-time project management roles. UK market data from 2024-2025 shows significant earning potential for experienced professionals.

Day Rate Breakdown by Experience

These figures assume 52 working weeks per year minus 4-5 weeks for holidays and business development time (approximately 47-48 billable weeks annually).

Regional Variations

Location significantly impacts day rates for part-time project managers:

• London: Rates typically 20-35% above national average (£600-£1,200/day for senior PMs)
• South East: £500-£900/day for experienced professionals
• Manchester, Birmingham, Leeds: £450-£750/day
• Scotland, Wales, North East: £400-£650/day
• Remote roles: Often command London rates regardless of location

Where to Find Part-Time Project Manager Jobs

The UK market for part-time project management roles has expanded significantly, with multiple platforms and networks offering opportunities.

Specialist Job Boards

• Fractional Quest: UK's leading platform for fractional and part-time executive roles, including project managers
• YunoJuno: Freelance and flexible work marketplace with PM opportunities
• Escape the City: Alternative careers platform featuring part-time and portfolio roles
• Flexible Working: Dedicated to part-time and flexible professional positions

Traditional Job Sites with Part-Time Filters

• LinkedIn: Use filters for "Part-time" and "Project Manager" in your target location
• Indeed UK: Large volume of part-time PM listings, particularly for SMEs
• Reed.co.uk: Strong UK coverage with detailed filtering options
• CV-Library: Growing selection of flexible PM roles

Professional Networks and Associations

• Association for Project Management (APM): UK's chartered body with job board and networking events
• Project Management Institute (PMI) UK Chapter: Access to global PMI network and local events
• LinkedIn Groups: "UK Project Managers" and "Fractional Executives UK" are active communities
• Meetup groups: Local PM networking groups often share part-time opportunities

Recruitment Agencies Specialising in PM Roles

• Hays Project Management: Major recruiter with part-time and contract PM division
• Blackbridge Partners: Interim and fractional executive recruitment
• Robert Half Project Professionals: Part-time and contract project management
• Odgers Interim: Senior interim and part-time management roles

Types of Part-Time Project Manager Roles

Part-time project management encompasses diverse specialisations and industries, each with unique requirements and opportunities.

By Industry Sector

Technology and Software

Tech companies frequently hire part-time PMs for product launches, system implementations, and digital transformation projects. Day rates of £600-£1,000 reflect high demand for Agile, DevOps, and technical project management expertise.

Financial Services

Banks, fintech startups, and investment firms need project managers for regulatory compliance, system upgrades, and business transformation. Rates range from £650-£1,200 per day, with FCA compliance experience highly valued.

Construction and Property

Residential and commercial development projects often engage part-time PMs for specific phases. PRINCE2 and APM qualifications are particularly valued, with rates of £500-£800 per day typical.

Healthcare and Pharmaceuticals

NHS trusts, private healthcare providers, and pharma companies hire part-time PMs for service improvements, facility expansions, and clinical trials. Rates of £550-£900 per day are common.

Marketing and Creative Agencies

Agencies engage part-time PMs to manage client campaigns, new business pitches, and internal projects. Rates typically range from £400-£700 per day.

By Project Type

• Digital transformation: Leading technology adoption and process digitalisation
• Change management: Guiding organisational restructuring and cultural shifts
• System implementation: Deploying new software platforms (ERP, CRM, etc.)
• Product development: Managing new product launches from concept to market
• Regulatory compliance: Ensuring adherence to industry regulations and standards
• Business process improvement: Optimising operations and increasing efficiency
• M&A integration: Managing post-merger integration programmes

Skills and Qualifications Required

Part-time project manager roles demand both hard technical skills and soft leadership abilities, combined with proven track records.

Essential Project Management Methodologies

• Agile/Scrum: Required for 68% of part-time PM roles, especially in tech and product development
• PRINCE2: Standard for government, construction, and traditional sectors
• Waterfall: Still relevant for regulated industries and fixed-scope projects
• Lean/Six Sigma: Valued for process improvement and efficiency projects
• Hybrid approaches: Flexibility to combine methodologies based on project needs

Professional Certifications

While not always mandatory, certifications significantly enhance marketability and day rates:

• PRINCE2 Practitioner: UK's most recognised project management qualification
• PMP (Project Management Professional): Global standard from PMI, valued by multinationals
• Agile certifications: Certified Scrum Master (CSM), PMI-ACP, SAFe
• MSP (Managing Successful Programmes): For programme-level roles
• APM PMQ: Association for Project Management qualification
• Change management: Prosci, CMI qualifications add value

Technical and Business Skills

• Project management software: Microsoft Project, Jira, Asana, Monday.com, Smartsheet
• Data analysis: Excel proficiency, basic data visualisation
• Financial management: Budgeting, forecasting, ROI analysis
• Risk management: Identifying, assessing, and mitigating project risks
• Stakeholder management: Communication with C-suite, teams, and external partners
• Resource planning: Allocating people, time, and budget effectively

Soft Skills That Set You Apart

• Communication: Clear written and verbal skills for diverse audiences
• Leadership: Motivating teams without direct authority
• Problem-solving: Quick decision-making under pressure
• Adaptability: Quickly understanding new business contexts
• Commercial awareness: Understanding business drivers and ROI
• Negotiation: Managing conflicting priorities and resources

How to Transition to Part-Time Project Management

Moving from full-time employment to part-time project management requires strategic planning and positioning.

Step 1: Build Your Track Record (1-3 months)

Document your project successes with quantifiable results:

• Project budgets managed (£X million)
• Team sizes led (X direct reports, X stakeholders)
• Outcomes delivered (cost savings, revenue increases, efficiency gains)
• Project types and methodologies used
• Industries and sectors covered

Step 2: Obtain Relevant Qualifications (2-6 months)

Invest in certifications that match your target market:

• PRINCE2 for UK corporate and public sector roles
• PMP for international or multinational clients
• Agile certifications for tech and product roles
• Industry-specific credentials (FCA authorisations, construction qualifications, etc.)

Step 3: Establish Your Business Structure (1 month)

Most part-time project managers operate as:

• Sole traders: Simplest structure, but unlimited liability
• Limited companies: Tax efficient for earnings above £50-60k, limited liability protection
• Umbrella companies: Useful for IR35-caught contracts

Consider IR35 legislation carefully - many part-time PM contracts fall inside IR35, requiring PAYE tax treatment.

Step 4: Build Your Network and Online Presence (Ongoing)

• Optimise LinkedIn profile with "Part-Time Project Manager" and "Fractional Project Manager" in headline
• Join APM, PMI UK Chapter, and relevant professional bodies
• Attend industry networking events and PM meetups
• Connect with former colleagues, clients, and industry contacts
• Consider a simple website showcasing your expertise and case studies

Step 5: Land Your First Client (2-6 months)

Your first part-time role often comes through:

• Former employers: 43% of new fractional PMs start with previous companies
• Personal network: Warm introductions account for 34% of first engagements
• Recruitment agencies: Agencies like Hays and Robert Half place many first-time part-timers
• Job boards: Direct applications, particularly for clearly defined projects

Part-Time vs Fractional vs Interim: Understanding the Differences

While often used interchangeably, these terms have subtle but important distinctions in the UK market.

For a detailed comparison, see our guide on interim vs fractional project managers.

Tax and IR35 Considerations for Part-Time PMs

Understanding tax obligations is crucial for part-time project managers operating through limited companies or as sole traders.

IR35 Legislation Impact

Since April 2021, medium and large private sector clients must assess IR35 status of contractors. Many part-time PM roles fall inside IR35 due to:

• Supervision and direction from client management
• Integration into client's team and processes
• Limited substitution rights
• Client provision of equipment and workspace

Tax-Efficient Structures

For contracts assessed as outside IR35:

• Limited company allows 5-10% higher net retention vs PAYE
• Ability to pay salary + dividends optimally
• Business expense deductions (travel, equipment, training)
• Pension contributions from company (corporation tax deductible)

For inside IR35 contracts:

• Umbrella company handles PAYE deductions
• Or operate via agency PAYE scheme
• Higher gross rates typically negotiated to offset tax burden

Benefits of Part-Time Project Management

For Project Managers

• Work-life balance: Control over schedule and workload
• Variety: Exposure to different industries, challenges, and teams
• Higher earnings potential: Day rates typically 30-50% above equivalent salaries
• Skill development: Broader experience across multiple projects simultaneously
• Autonomy: Greater control over projects and methodologies
• Reduced politics: Less involvement in internal office dynamics
• Portfolio careers: Combine PM work with consulting, training, or other interests

For Employers

• Cost-effective: Pay only for time needed, no benefits or overheads
• Senior expertise: Access to experienced PMs at lower total cost than FT hires
• Flexibility: Scale up or down based on project pipeline
• Fresh perspective: External viewpoint often identifies improvements
• Quick start: Experienced PMs deliver value from week one
• Reduced risk: Easier to change if fit isn't right
• Knowledge transfer: PMs often mentor and upskill internal teams

Challenges and How to Overcome Them

Income Variability

Challenge: Irregular work flow and gaps between contracts
Solution: Build 3-6 months operating expenses in reserve; cultivate multiple client relationships; consider retainer arrangements

Business Development Time

Challenge: 15-25% of time spent finding next role
Solution: Network continuously while engaged; ask current clients for referrals; maintain active LinkedIn presence

Benefits Gap

Challenge: No pension, sick pay, or holiday pay
Solution: Build these costs into day rate (typically 15-20% premium); set up personal pension with 15-20% contributions

IR35 Complexity

Challenge: Navigating tax legislation and client determinations
Solution: Work with specialist contractor accountant; review contracts carefully; consider professional indemnity insurance

Imposter Syndrome

Challenge: Doubt about value when charging premium rates
Solution: Document wins and client feedback; remember employers pay for results, not just time; join peer communities

Frequently Asked Questions

How much can I earn as a part-time project manager in the UK?

Part-time project managers in the UK typically earn £40,000-£125,000 annually depending on experience, working 2-3 days per week. Day rates range from £350-£500 for mid-level PMs to £700-£1,000+ for senior specialists. London rates are typically 20-35% higher than other regions.

Do I need certifications to work as a part-time project manager?

While not always mandatory, certifications significantly improve your marketability and day rates. PRINCE2 Practitioner is most valued in the UK (especially for government and corporate roles), while PMP is preferred by multinationals. Agile certifications (CSM, SAFe) are increasingly important for tech and product roles. Most part-time PMs have 8-15+ years experience plus at least one major certification.

How is part-time project management different from freelancing?

Part-time project managers typically work regular days each week for one primary employer (e.g., every Monday-Wednesday), often on longer engagements (6-24 months). Freelancers may juggle multiple small projects simultaneously with more variable schedules. Part-time arrangements often feel more like reduced-hours employment, while freelancing implies more project-to-project variety.

Can part-time project managers work remotely?

Yes - 67% of part-time project manager roles in 2025 offer remote or hybrid working arrangements. Many clients specifically seek remote PMs to access talent beyond their local area. However, some roles (particularly in construction, healthcare, or government) may require on-site presence for certain project phases or key meetings.

How do I find my first part-time project management role?

The most successful routes are: (1) Approach former employers who know your capabilities - 43% of first-time fractional PMs start here; (2) Leverage your personal network for warm introductions; (3) Register with specialist recruiters like Hays Project Management and Blackbridge Partners; (4) Use job boards like Fractional Quest, LinkedIn, and Indeed UK with "part-time" filters; (5) Join APM and PMI UK Chapter for networking opportunities.

What's the difference between part-time and fractional project managers?

The terms are largely interchangeable, with subtle positioning differences. "Part-time" emphasises reduced hours/days (e.g., 3 days per week), while "fractional" emphasises splitting time across multiple clients (e.g., 40% of a full-time role). Part-time PMs often work for one employer at a time, whereas fractional PMs typically serve 2-3 clients concurrently. Search volumes for "part-time project manager" are 5x higher than "fractional," making it the more accessible term for job seekers.

How do taxes work for part-time project managers?

Tax treatment depends on your structure: (1) Limited company outside IR35: Pay corporation tax on profits, then personal tax on salary/dividends - most tax-efficient but requires compliance; (2) Limited company inside IR35: Taxed like employment (PAYE) with client deducting tax at source; (3) Sole trader: Pay income tax and Class 4 NI on profits; (4) Umbrella company: PAYE employment with umbrella handling all tax. Most part-time PMs operate through limited companies, though many contracts now fall inside IR35 rules.

What industries hire part-time project managers most?

Technology and software companies are the largest hirers (32% of part-time PM roles), followed by financial services (18%), professional services (14%), healthcare (11%), and construction (9%). Tech roles typically pay highest day rates (£600-£1,000) and offer most remote opportunities. Financial services roles often require regulatory expertise and pay £650-£1,200 per day. SMEs across all sectors increasingly use part-time PMs for specific transformation or growth projects.

How many years of experience do I need?

Most part-time project manager roles require minimum 8-10 years of project management experience, with many seeking 12-15+ years for senior positions. Clients hiring part-time PMs want immediate value without onboarding time, so they seek seasoned professionals who've managed similar projects, budgets, and team sizes. If you have 5-7 years experience, consider building your track record in full-time roles before transitioning, or target smaller SME projects initially.

Can I combine part-time PM work with other employment?

Yes - this is increasingly common. Many professionals work part-time PM roles (2-3 days/week) while: (1) Employed elsewhere part-time; (2) Running their own business or consultancy; (3) Pursuing portfolio careers across multiple domains; (4) Managing family commitments; (5) Studying or undertaking personal projects. Ensure any employment contracts permit outside work, and manage IR35 implications if combining employed and self-employed income.

Next Steps: Starting Your Part-Time PM Career

Ready to explore part-time project management opportunities? Here's your action plan:

1. Audit your experience: Document projects managed, budgets, team sizes, and measurable outcomes
2. Get certified: Obtain PRINCE2, PMP, or relevant Agile certifications if you haven't already
3. Optimise your profile: Update LinkedIn with "Part-Time Project Manager" positioning and detailed project case studies
4. Set up your business: Register as sole trader or form limited company; consult accountant on IR35
5. Network actively: Join APM, attend PM meetups, reconnect with former colleagues
6. Apply strategically: Target roles matching your industry expertise and project experience
7. Browse opportunities: Check part-time and fractional project management jobs on leading UK job boards

The UK market for part-time project managers continues growing as organisations recognise the value of flexible, senior PM expertise. With proper preparation, positioning, and persistence, experienced project managers can build rewarding and lucrative part-time careers.

Related Resources

• Browse Fractional Jobs UK - Latest part-time and fractional opportunities
• Interim vs Fractional Project Managers - Understanding key differences
• How to Become a Fractional CFO - Complete executive transition guide
• Fractional CFO Jobs UK - Explore similar opportunities in finance
• Fractional CMO Jobs UK - Marketing leadership opportunities
• Fractional CTO Jobs UK - Technology leadership roles