The success of any construction project requires expert management, efficient coordination and precise supervision. Acting as the client’s representative, the construction project manager ensures that the project progresses according to plan – on schedule and within budget.
Helping the Client Meet Legal Obligations
The Finnish Land Use and Building Act defines the statutory responsibilities of the party commissioning a construction project. It states that the developer is responsible for ensuring the project is designed and executed in accordance with all applicable laws, regulations, and permits. The client must also possess sufficient capability and competence to carry out the project.
If the client lacks the necessary expertise or resources, a construction project manager (or construction management consultant) can be appointed to ensure these obligations are met. As a professional in the field, the consultant ensures that the project progresses in a controlled and compliant manner.
A Trusted Advisor to the Client
Construction projects typically involve a wide range of stakeholders – such as end users, designers, consultants, and contractors. It is common for project requirements, objectives, and participants to vary significantly from one project to another, which creates unique challenges for project management. In addition to ensuring compliance with statutory duties, a construction project manager supports the client in defining realistic goals in terms of scope, quality, schedule, and cost. The consultant can also assist with day-to-day project management, freeing up the client’s time and internal resources.
The role and responsibilities of the construction project manager are highly dependent on the client’s own expertise and available resources. A consultant can manage the entire project independently from start to finish or provide targeted support in areas where the client requires assistance.
An experienced construction project manager also brings valuable insight into matters such as selecting the most suitable project delivery method and evaluating alternative solutions.
Key Responsibilities of a Construction Project Manager
Every project is unique, with various influencing factors including scope, the client’s capacity and involvement, and the responsibilities dictated by the chosen project delivery method. The need for consultancy services is therefore shaped by a combination of these factors.
The construction project manager’s role can cover the entire lifecycle of a project – from initial project planning to the warranty period. Typical responsibilities include:
- Needs assessment and project planning: Defining the objectives and parameters of the project. This is a critical phase, as careful planning lays the foundation for effective project control.
- Selection of project delivery method: Analysing and recommending the most suitable delivery model for the client’s objectives.
- Project management: Coordinating the collaboration between stakeholders, ensuring goals are met, and managing smooth project execution.
- Procurement: Managing tenders or direct procurement of consultants, contractors, furnishings and technical systems.
- Contract management: Drafting and negotiating consultant and contractor agreements in the client’s best interest.
- Design management: Coordinating the work of designers to align with the client’s goals.
- Cost management: Preparing budgets and monitoring forecasts and cost control.
- Site supervision: Overseeing the quality, safety, and schedule of construction work.
- Risk management: Identifying potential risks early and proposing effective solutions.
Value for the Client
A construction project manager brings significant value by freeing up the client’s internal resources and ensuring that all statutory duties are fulfilled. A skilled consultant contributes expertise that minimises risks, optimises costs, and improves the overall quality of the final outcome.
At Premico, we have extensive experience in managing complex construction projects. Our knowledgeable consultants take a holistic approach to ensuring your project’s success. Get in touch with us to discuss how we can support your project.
Tuomo Lindstedt
Director, Construction Management
+358 50 330 4422
tuomo.lindstedt@premico.fi
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