The construction industry is undergoing a profound transformation driven by digitalisation that is leading to the emergence of the smart built environment (SBE). In this dynamic landscape, project managers (PMs) play a pivotal role in coordinating complex construction projects to deliver innovative and sustainable built environments. However, the rapid evolution of construction practices necessitates a re-evaluation of PM competencies to effectively navigate the challenges of the SBE. To date, there is still a scarcity of the digital competency framework. This requires a proactive approach to equip PMs with the digital competencies needed to succeed and bridge the gap in the SBE. This study aims to develop a digital competency framework through conducting a systematic literature review (SLR), to identify and contextualise the digital competencies required for PMs in the SBE. These competencies will be categorised and aligned with the attribute-based approach as a competency requirement prior to work commencement. Furthermore, the framework will be considered through the lens of Digital Twins (DTs) as an exemplary of the SBE and to demonstrate their transformative potential in construction project management through a comparative analysis to link the digital PM competencies with the requirements of the DTs. By integrating DTs’ requirements with digital PM competencies, the essential competencies necessary for PMs to leverage the capabilities of the digital era will be tested.