TJM Project Director: Deciphering Expert Pricing

As a freelance Project Director, you are a master at juggling the complexities of project management. Beyond technical expertise, a crucial question arises in freelancing, the Average Daily Rate (AMR). How do you determine pricing that reflects your value while remaining competitive in the market? Explore with us the key parameters that influence a Project Director's TJM.

Parameters to take into account for Calculate the TJM of a Project Director

The experience of the Project Director

In project management, experience is an important parameter in establishing a TJM. An experienced Project Director, with an experience often exceeding 10 years, embodies the wisdom acquired over the course of projects. Each challenge overcome and each success achieved during these years shape his expertise. This wealth of knowledge and skills acquired directly in the field justifies a TJM that reflects the added value of this accumulated experience.

The consultant's level

A Project Director's TJM also depends on their skill level. Junior consultants, while enthusiastic and promising, often start at more affordable rates. On the other hand, seasoned experts, recognized for their proven expertise, can legitimately ask for higher fees. Their ability to solve complex problems and guide teams to success is an asset that is directly reflected in pricing.

The specificities of the mission

Each project management mission is different. Complex projects require specific skills, and pricing takes these requirements into account. The scale of the project, the specific challenges it presents, as well as the specialized skills required, are factors that influence the TJM. The more demanding the mission, the more the pricing tends to be adjusted upward.

The certifications (PMP/IPMA)

Certifications, such as Project Management Professional (PMP) or IPMA, act as a formal validation of skills. Certified Project Managers hold a quality label, attesting to their ability to successfully carry out complex projects. Businesses value this certification and will therefore be more likely to accept higher rates for these highly qualified professionals.

The geographical location

The place of practice plays a crucial role in determining the rate. In the Paris region, where the cost of living is higher, Project Directors' TJMs can reflect this economic reality. Likewise, local demand influences prices, creating regional disparities. Geographic location is becoming an important parameter to consider in establishing the TJM, reflecting both local economic conditions and market demand.

Average of Project Directors' TJMs

In general, daily rates are between 600 and 1200 euros, a range that depends closely on the specificity of the mission.

Global average: The overall average Average Daily Rate (ADR) for a Project Manager oscillates around 750 euros per day.

Pricing Scale:

• Junior (less than 3 years of experience): Entry-level Project Managers can expect rates starting around 600 euros per day.
• Confirmed (3 to 7 years of experience): Experienced Project Managers, who have already acquired solid experience, can set their TMR at around 800 euros per day. Their ability to manage projects independently and solve complex problems is reflected in this interim pricing.
• Senior (7 to 10 years of experience): With extensive experience, senior Project Managers can claim higher rates, generally reaching 1000 euros per day. Their strategic expertise and their ability to assume responsibilities allow them to take on complex projects.
• Expert (more than 10 years of experience): Expert Project Managers, with more than 10 years of experience, can charge rates of up to 1200 euros per day. Their in-depth knowledge of the field and their ability to solve complex challenges position these professionals at the highest price level.

In terms of annual salary, a project director can claim 45,000 euros for juniors to more than 100,000 euros for the most experienced.

What exactly is a Project Director

The job of Project Director involves the management and supervision of projects, ensuring compliance with costs, deadlines, quality and risk management. The average duration of a mission is approximately 6 months.

The missions of a Project Director

The scope of responsibilities of project managers is broad and covers all aspects of the project life cycle.

Understanding needs: Upstream of the project, the Project Director must find out about the client's needs. It acts as a mediator, translating these requirements into concrete and achievable goals that will guide the entire project.

Contractual negotiation: It is at the heart of contract negotiations. Its mission is to navigate through the details of the contract, ensuring that each clause contributes to the achievement of the objectives set. Drafting solid contracts is a key skill.

Advice to Project Managers: The project director guides the project managers under his direction. He shares his experience to help them overcome project-specific challenges, playing a critical role in team development.

Participation in Team Recruitment: Team building is a strategic step. The Project Director actively participates in the recruitment process, ensuring the selection of members with the necessary skills and who are integrated into the dynamics of the project.

Employee Assessment and Development: Responsibility extends beyond the launch of the project. The Project Director continuously assesses the team's performance, identifying strengths and areas for improvement. The professional development of each member is a constant priority.

Arbitration of Assignments between Projects: Often with several projects in progress, he juggles assignments. It optimizes resources, balancing workloads to maximize the effectiveness of the team as a whole.

Deployment of the Industrial Strategy: In addition to operational management, the project director ensures that each project is consistent with the company's overall industrial strategy. Each project becomes a strategic piece, aligned with organizational goals.

Training and skills to become a Project Director

The road to becoming a Project Director involves solid training, often with a Bac + 5 in business or engineering schools.

Certifications such as PMP or IPMA reinforce credibility. The skills required include mastery of the tools of project management, of legal knowledge, managerial, and expertise in information system.