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Alexandra, Project/Program Manager at NGO/International Trade and Development Office : Advize Career Interview
A career in project/program management within the dynamic world of international trade and development offers exciting opportunities for impactful work.
This professional's journey began with active campus involvement, leading to internships and a full-time role managing projects for German companies entering the US market.
The daily work involves diverse tasks—from client communication and market research to event planning and budget management—requiring a blend of strong organizational and interpersonal skills, adaptability, and the ability to navigate ambiguity.
Success in this field involves not only technical proficiency but also a high EQ and a proactive approach to upskilling.
Entry-level positions, such as analyst or associate coordinator roles, provide valuable experience and exposure to various sectors.
A broad undergraduate education, combined with active involvement in extracurricular activities, provides a strong foundation for this rewarding and constantly evolving career path. The most significant lesson learned?
Maintaining professionalism while confidently advocating for oneself.
Advizer Information
Name
Job Title
Company
Undergrad
Grad Programs
Alexandra Banning
Project/Program Manager
NGO/International Trade and Development Office
UC Santa Barbara
N/A
Majors
Industries
Job Functions
Traits
Communications
Nonprofit
Operations and Project Management
Scholarship Recipient, Took Out Loans, Transfer Student
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Career path of a Project Program Manager at German American Chamber
Alexandra's career path began with "a lot of different clubs on campus," leading to an American Marketing Association role and subsequent internship at the German American Chamber of Commerce. This experience, combined with their foreign exchange program in Germany and president role at the AMA, culminated in a full-time offer as a project/program manager, focusing on "market entry and innovation consulting for German companies."
Main Responsibilities of a Project Manager at an International Trade Organization
Alexandra's role as a Project/Program Manager involves managing projects for German companies seeking to expand in the US, encompassing "managing communication with clients" and ensuring timely delivery of "market reports, meetings, and events." This includes leading a team, budget management, and conducting "in-depth market development research" to facilitate business partnerships and technological collaborations.
A Day in the Life of a Project and Program Manager at an International Trade Office
Alexandra's workday as a Project/Program Manager begins early with calls to European partners, followed by team check-ins and afternoon work on deliverables—ranging from market research and writing reports to event logistics and developing client pitch decks—all while ensuring "deadlines and the budget are met." The diverse nature of the projects means "no one day really looks the same," reflecting the dynamic demands of the international trade and development sector.
Most Important Skills for a Project Manager in International Development
Alexandra, a Project/Program Manager, emphasizes the crucial blend of "hard and soft skills," citing organization and time management as essential, but highlighting the importance of high EQ and "negotiating with everybody's different expectations." The ability to "think beyond a certain task" and connect projects for impactful results differentiates a successful project manager from one who merely completes tasks.
Favorite Parts Of Being A Project And Program Manager At An NGO
Alexandra enjoys the diverse industry exposure in her Project/Program Manager role, stating that "it's really interesting to be able to...understand the different inflection points that are going on in the market," while also appreciating the collaborative aspect, finding energy in working with "clients and also the team and external stakeholders."
Biggest Challenges Faced By A Project Manager At An International Development NGO
Alexandra's biggest challenge is balancing project management with business development in a small organization, requiring "a bit of a mind shift," while simultaneously navigating career progression within the constraints of the organization's size. This situation presents an opportunity to expand skills but also necessitates proactive upskilling to advance their project management career.
Favorite Parts Of Working In The International Development Industry As A Project/Program Manager
Alexandra enjoys the constant learning and diverse collaborations inherent in international trade and development. The work exposes Alexandra to "a lot of different industries" and "really interesting people," including private companies and governments across Europe and beyond.
What type of person thrives in the International Development industry, according to a Project Program Manager at a Nonprofit Organization
Alexandra, a Project/Program Manager in the NGO/International Trade and Development sector, identifies a key balance for success: "rigid organizational skills" coupled with curiosity and strong interpersonal abilities, since the work is "so much of the business, um, involves people". This blend allows professionals to be creative, meet deadlines, and manage budgets effectively within the demanding environment.
What A Project Manager At An NGO Wishes They Had Known Before Entering The International Trade And Development Industry
Alexandra, a Project/Program Manager at a small NGO, emphasizes the importance of "being able to deal with ambiguity and wear a lot of hats," a crucial skill learned early in the role that involves making independent decisions and "owning that call." This experience contrasts with larger organizations, where such ownership and leadership opportunities may not be as prevalent at junior levels.
Entry-level Positions for Aspiring Project and Program Managers at NGOs
Entry-level roles in NGO/international trade and development for undergraduate students include "analyst" and "associate coordinator" positions supporting "international trade and market expansion," often within larger organizations offering broad industry exposure to help identify niche areas of interest. These roles exist in both the non-profit and for-profit sectors, with titles varying across private, non-profit, and public organizations.
Significant Career Lesson From A Project Manager At An NGO
Alexandra's most significant career lesson, especially early on and as a woman in business, is to "not take things personally," separating professional interactions from personal feelings while also learning to "stand up for yourself and advocate" for their needs—a skill learned through experience. This approach allows for maintaining confidence and navigating workplace dynamics effectively.
College Experiences That Helped a Project Program Manager at an NGO Succeed
Alexandra's communication degree with a research focus built strong "critical thinking skills" and fostered curiosity, while leadership roles in the American Marketing Association developed project management and people management skills. A broad undergraduate education, including a German minor and technology management program, exposed Alexandra to diverse disciplines, complementing the development of both hard and soft skills crucial to their career in project/program management at an NGO/International Trade and Development Office.
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