How Do I Become a Release Manager?

To become a release manager, it first is a good idea to enroll in a degree program in a field such as computer science, where you can learn about programming languages and software design. While in an academic program, you also may want to take courses in management, where you can learn some essential principles of business communication, leadership, and planning. It also can be a good idea to participate in internships and entry level positions in software organizations so you learn about the daily operations of the software industry. Once you have received the proper training and have worked for a number of years in the field, you next can prepare a resume to distribute to potential employers.

A release manager is a software professional who is responsible for coordinating releases of software products. Some release manager duties might include communicating with clients to ensure that software releases are timely and smooth running, troubleshooting to make sure that software operates correctly, and planning to ensure that software implementation is effective. Professionals in this field often have a strong background in software design, though their roles normally are more strategic.

While it may not be required to have formal academic training in order to become a release manager, many employers prefer to hire job applicants who have relevant academic degrees. Professionals in this field often have strong managerial, communication, and leadership skills, however, so it can be helpful if you understand both the technical and business aspects of the software industry. It can be valuable to enroll in a program that allows you to study software design and business management.

In order to become a release manager, it is usually important to have years of experience working in the industry. Most release managers have a strong firsthand knowledge of the software business. They often understand technical aspects, such as coding, and strategic aspects, such as implementation of software into client organizations. For this reason it can be a good idea to begin taking internships and entry level positions while in school.

To become a release manager, you should plan on working your way up. Employers often prefer to hire job candidates who have proven through experience that they understand common needs and challenges that a software business might face. It can be beneficial to work on both the client business end, as well as on the software provider end. This variety of experience can help you to appear as a well rounded job candidate who is capable of effectively facilitating communication between software companies and their clients.