Finance skills for project managers - advice needed

[CharlieH]

I am a mid level software project manager and have recently moved into a new position. The finance reporting framework is not very rigid and I am hoping to add some additional structure and control in terms of day-to-day reporting and also project and change feasibility assessments.

I have a bit of a finance background with having a degree in Economics but haven't had the opportunity to use much of this since I was at University. I really would like to do a finance for project managers course as a refresher but am struggling to find providers and recommendations.

Can anyone point me to some good resources and recommend any particular training providers?

Any advice much appreciated!

[Didier07]

Charlie,

Although I am not aware of any specific finance courses for project managers there are some "light" finance courses which could be taken.

I am a chartered accountant who turned project manager. Having done this I believe that the finance elements of most projects is very light touch and probably too light if I am being honest. In order to function competently as a PM in the finance area I think an ATT course would be more than adequate.

This course can be done remotely or through several competent providers. If I am being honest, I think you will be able to get what you need from reading the material as opposed to taking the actual course. Once you have gotten your head around double entry you won't forget it.

Let me know if you need any other help.

Regards

Darren

[kwalford]

Charlie,

Although I am not aware of any specific finance courses for project managers there are some "light" finance courses which could be taken.

I am a chartered accountant who turned project manager. Having done this I believe that the finance elements of most projects is very light touch and probably too light if I am being honest. In order to function competently as a PM in the finance area I think an ATT course would be more than adequate.

This course can be done remotely or through several competent providers. If I am being honest, I think you will be able to get what you need from reading the material as opposed to taking the actual course. Once you have gotten your head around double entry you won't forget it.

Let me know if you need any other help.

Regards

Darren

Hi Darren,

Thanks for the input.

When this post first came up it caught my eye as the finance aspect of projects is an area I want to improve on.

I am presuming the below link is what you are referring to, is that right?

http://www.att.org.uk/students/prospect ... Prospectus

Thanks,
Kit

[begeland]

I agree with Kit - I think the focus is not on being a project manager of finance projects but rather strengthening the financial aspect and financial reporting (capabilities, meaningfulness, etc.) of the financial aspect of projects. Different orgs and different customers want to see different things, but a PM with a solid handle on the financial health of his projects (and can show it by producing info) can make his exec team very happy because I guarantee they are focused on that financial aspect daily.

Brad