If you search for project management jobs today, you will quickly see a mix of “Project Manager” and “Scrum Master” openings, especially in the IT world. It is easy to assume they are basically the same role with different titles. In this Lounge Access conversation, Shoaib explains why that assumption can be risky for your career. He starts by clarifying that the overlap mainly comes from software projects using agile and scrum, where the official role is Scrum Master and there is no project manager mentioned in the framework.
Shoaib then lays out the core difference. A project manager is expected to be able to deliver projects using different approaches, from traditional waterfall to agile, hybrid and even specific flavors like scaled agile or extreme programming. The scope is broad and covers planning, execution, governance and outcomes across many delivery styles. A Scrum Master, on the other hand, is specialized. The role focuses on one agile method, scrum. When you present yourself as a Scrum Master, you are signalling that your strength lies inside that one way of working within the larger agile umbrella.
For someone who does not yet have real experience delivering projects with scrum, this distinction matters. Shoaib suggests that instead of chasing Scrum Master roles just because they are visible on job portals, it may be better to target junior or entry level project management roles that align with the way you have actually delivered work so far. Over time, once you build hands on scrum experience, you can decide whether to deepen that path or continue as a broader project manager who can work across methods.
This video is especially helpful if you are confused by job titles and worried about choosing the “wrong” one. Shoaib’s explanation gives you a cleaner mental model of how project managers and Scrum Masters differ in expectations, skill width and industry usage. With that clarity, you can tailor your applications, learning plan and certifications to the path that fits your background and long term goals.
Book your consultation with Shoaib at Lounge Access