The global skills and competency framework for the digital world

Portfolio management POMG

The development and application of a systematic management framework to define and deliver a portfolio of programmes, projects and/or ongoing services, in support of specific business strategies and objectives. Includes the implementation of a strategic investment appraisal and decision making process based on a clear understanding of cost, risk, inter-dependencies, and impact on existing business activities, enabling measurement and objective evaluation of potential changes and the benefits to be realised. The prioritisation of resource utilisation and changes to be implemented. The regular review of portfolios. The management of the service pipeline (proposed or in development), service catalogue (live or available for deployment) and retired services.

Moving to SFIA 8 

There is an updated version of this skill for SFIA 8. 

  • The skill descriptions have been edited for readability and guidance notes have been added 
  • Details available here - SFIA 8 Portfolio management
  • SFIA 7 skill descriptions will remain available for you to use 
  • Previous SFIA assessments are not impacted by this change. 

Levels

Defined at these levels: 5 6 7

Portfolio management: Levels 1-4

This skill is not typically observed when working at these levels of responsibility.

Portfolio management: Level 5

Ensures that programme/project leads and/or service owners adhere to the agreed portfolio management approach and timetable and that they provide the appropriate information to agreed targets of timelines and accuracy. Produces reports as appropriate for portfolio governance, including making recommendations for changes to the portfolio.

Portfolio management: Level 6

Leads the definition of a portfolio of programmes, projects, and/or on-going service provision. Engages and influences senior managers to ensure the portfolio will deliver the agreed business objectives. Plans, schedules, monitors and reports on activities related to the portfolio to ensure that each part of the portfolio contributes to the overall achievement of the portfolio. Collects, summarises and reports on portfolio KPIs often through the deployment of business management processes and systems. Identifies issues with portfolio structure, cost, risk, inter-dependencies, impact on current business activities and the strategic benefits to be realised. Notifies projects/programmes/change initiatives of issues and recommends and monitors corrective action. Reports on portfolio status as appropriate.

Portfolio management: Level 7

Leads the definition, implementation and review of the organisation’s portfolio management framework. Authorises the structure of portfolios and is responsible for alignment with business strategy & objectives and with emerging IT and digital opportunities. Sets parameters for the prioritisation of resources and the changes to be implemented. Recommends and implements corrective action by engaging and influencing senior management. Leads the on-going monitoring and review of portfolios for impact on current business activities and the strategic benefits to be realised. Is responsible for implementing effective portfolio governance arrangements supported by effective reporting.