Technical Program Manager (TPM)

A Technical Program Manager (TPM) is a program manager who performs technical program management tasks.

• Context:
  • They can (typically) ensure Technical Project Milestones are met.
  • They can (often) be in a TPM Role described by a TPM Job Description.
  • They can (often) be associated with a TPM Job Description.
  • They can (often) be associated with a TPM Performance Review.
  • They can (often) report to a Director of Program Management.
  • ...
  • They can direct and oversee the planning, execution, and successful delivery of Technical Projects, ensuring they meet Company Objectives and Client Requirements.
  • They can collaborate with teams such as: Development Team, Quality Assurance Team, Product Management Team, and Operations Team.
  • They can manage Project Scope, Timelines, Budgets, and Resources efficiently.
  • They can proactively identify, evaluate, and mitigate Project Risks and challenges.
  • They can maintain effective Communication with all Stakeholders, providing regular Project Updates.
  • They can cultivate a culture of Innovation and continuous improvement within Technical Teams.
  • They can mentor and lead Project Management Personnel, promoting professional development and growth.
  • They can ensure adherence to Industry Standards and Company Policy in all technical projects.
  • ...
• Example(s):
  • One leading a Development Team in integrating advanced AI-supported contract review applications for a legal tech firm.
  • One managing a cross-functional Project Team to develop and implement new Software Features.
  • One overseeing a Quality Assurance Team to ensure the reliability and performance of Software Products.
  • ...
• Counter-Example(s):
  • A Project Manager who focuses solely on non-technical aspects such as marketing or business development.
  • A Software Developer who is solely responsible for writing code without involvement in the broader program management.
  • A Software Systems Operations Manager.
  • An IT Operations Manager.
• See: Product Owner, Scrum Master, Program Manager, Software Development Lifecycle, Project Management, Stakeholder Management.

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References

2023

• GBard
  • A Technical Program Manager (TPM) is a professional who oversees the planning, execution, and delivery of technical projects within an organization. They play a crucial role in ensuring projects are completed on time, within budget, and meet the desired outcomes.
  • Responsibilities of a TPM:
    • Planning and defining project scope: TPMs clearly define project objectives, deliverables, timelines, and budgets. They work closely with stakeholders to understand their needs and develop a comprehensive project plan.
    • Resource allocation and team management: TPMs identify and acquire the necessary resources (e.g., personnel, equipment, budget) to complete the project. They also build and manage high-performing teams, fostering collaboration and communication.
    • Risk management and issue resolution: TPMs anticipate potential risks and develop mitigation strategies. They also proactively identify and address issues that arise during project execution.
    • Monitoring and reporting progress: TPMs track project progress against the established plan. They regularly report on key performance indicators and provide updates to stakeholders.
    • Communication and stakeholder management: TPMs effectively communicate project status, risks, and decisions to stakeholders. They build strong relationships with key stakeholders to ensure project success.
    • Technical knowledge and understanding: TPMs possess strong technical knowledge and understanding of the relevant technology and processes. This allows them to make informed decisions and provide guidance to the team.

2021

• https://www.mariogerard.com/technical-program-manager/
  • QUOTE: ... A Technical Program Manager is primarily responsible for working with a team of developers and testers to execute the product ideas or features envisioned by the Product Manager. ...

    ... I believe the Technical Program Manager (TPM) was initially started by Amazon. They have actually experimented with a whole slew of roles over the years like TPPM – technical program & product manager, PPM – program and product manager, now most tech companies actively hire TPMs in almost all their teams. ...

2020

• https://www.hireitpeople.com/resume-database/63-net-developers-architects-resumes/111462-technical-program-manager-product-owner-solution-architect-resume-deerfield-il
  • QUOTE: ...
    • Certified Scrum Master (CSM), certification in Project Management Professional (PMP) and ISACA member preparing for CGEIT certification.
    • Develop and manage multiple complex IT projects/programs from beginning to end including business case, benefits realization, estimation, scope, schedule, budgeting, timeline, capacity planning, resource allocation and project execution. Identify and manage project dependencies and critical paths.
    • Managing the program schedule which identifies the milestone and high-level dependencies for all the projects within the program and establishes the link program and project plans.
    • Responsible to facilitating daily scrum, sprint planning, sprint demo and retrospective meetings, possess conflict resolution, does conversation by focusing on scrum values of openness, honesty, and respect, help team or individual to clarify goals and actions to achieve the goal.

2020

• https://jobs.dell.com/job/massachusetts/product-owner-senior-technical-program-manager-apex-offer-engineering-us-remote-open/375/21737431264
  • QUOTE: ...
    • Work with product managers to identify product themes and epics and translate those into features and stories for the engineering teams.
    • Work with engineering teams to understand the priorities of the business and breakdown features into stories and stories into tasks.
    • Work with architects and principal engineers on designs and design reviews.
    • Own delivery of multiple strategic initiatives: create and present roadmaps, provide weekly status reports to stakeholders, and monthly business reviews to leadership at VP and SVP levels.

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