When there is a conversation on most any outlet, many times the term Program Manager or Project Manager, Developer, or any other term is used in the absence of a domain or context.
In our space, defense, and government contracting world here's a job description for a Program Manager.
Directs all phases of programs from inception through completion. Responsible for the cost, schedule and technical performance of company programs or subsystems of major programs. Participates in the negotiation of contract and contract changes. Coordinates the preparation of proposals, business plans, proposal work statements and specifications, operating budgets and financial terms/conditions of contract. Acts as primary customer contact for program activities, leading program review sessions with customer to discuss cost, schedule, and technical performance. Establishes design concepts, criteria and engineering efforts for product research, development, integration and test. Develops new business or expands the product line with the customer. Establishes milestones and monitors adherence to master plans and schedules, identifies program problems and obtains solutions, such as allocation of resources or changing contractual specifications. Directs the work of employees assigned to the program from technical, manufacturing and administrative areas.
Notice the inclusion of cost, schedule, and technical performance management. These activties are not the roles of the engineers - at the "company programs or subsystems of major programs." The engineers and techncial staff are accountable for the Work Packages and the Tasks in those Work Packages. The Control Account Manager is accountable for the Cost, Schedule, and Technical Performance is the Control Account - a collection of Work Packages.
