Client project managers’ knowledge and skill competencies for managing public construction projects

• Soft skills matter more than hard skills for public construction project managers • Project managers’ key competencies: leadership, problem-solving, scope management • Client project managers in Saudi construction projects display high competency in soft skills • The identified competencies can guide institutions in designing training programs Public construction projects face unique challenges that differ from those encountered in private projects, requiring client project managers to possess specific competencies to ensure successful project delivery. However, many client project managers lack the necessary competencies for effective construction project management. This study aims to identify the essential knowledge and skill competencies required for client-side project managers to effectively manage public construction projects in Saudi Arabia. Data were collected through 74 questionnaires completed by client project managers and analyzed using descriptive and inferential statistical methods. The results reveal that the most critical competencies include leadership, problem-solving, scope management, decision-making, and teamwork. Additionally, the findings indicate that soft skills are more crucial than hard skills for project managers. An exploratory factor analysis (EFA) further grouped these competencies into seven underlying groupings. This study provides valuable insights into the key competencies needed for hiring and assigning client-side project managers in public-sector projects, and the results can guide companies and educational institutions in designing specialized training programs for these managers.