Program Manager

Summary:

• We are seeking an experienced Senior IT Program Manager to build a roadmap and coordinate the creation and launch of multiple interdependent complex IT projects in parallel, in the area of customer applications. Projects include the re-platforming of a customer website in phases, the upgrade of a CIS system on an IaaS/PaaS platform, and additional initiatives.
• This is a contract position with the possibility of an extension or onboarding to a full-time position. The successful candidate will be responsible for leading a team of project managers, system analysts, developers, and stakeholders to ensure the successful delivery of these projects on time and within budget.

Primary Duties / Responsibilities

• Work with Sr Leadership and Customer Application Team to secure product roadmaps
• Structure projects in the early stage, including the production of business cases and their approvals.
• Implement a governance model for all projects and operate their financial management.
• Define project scopes, goals, and deliverables that support business strategy in collaboration with senior management and stakeholders.
• Coordinate with various IT groups to ensure alignment with overall strategy and goals.
• Contribute to the creation of Sub-Project Teams and related project launches.
• Direct and manage projects either directly or by leading other Project Managers
• Develop a consolidated project plan and associated comprehensive documentation for communication to Sr Management and Executive level.
• Manage project interdependencies.
• Effectively communicate projects/program expectations to team members and stakeholders in a timely and clear fashion.
• Estimate the resources and participants needed to achieve projects/program goals.
• Draft and submit budget proposals and recommend subsequent budget changes where necessary.
• Determine and assess the need for additional staff and/or consultants and make the appropriate recruitments in collaboration with senior management.
• Identify and manage project/program dependencies and critical paths.
• Plan and schedule project timelines and milestones using appropriate tools.
• Develop and deliver progress reports, proposals, requirements documentation, and presentations.
• Determine the frequency and content of status reports from the project team, analyze results, and troubleshoot problem areas.
• Proactively manage changes in project/program scope, identify potential crises, and prepare contingency plans.
• Define project success criteria and disseminate them to involved parties throughout the project life cycle.
• Coach, mentor, motivate, and supervise project team members and contractors, and influence them to take positive action and accountability for their assigned work.
• Build, develop, and grow any business relationships vital to the success of the program.
• Organize project post mortems and create a recommendations report in order to identify successful and unsuccessful project elements to pay attention to for future projects
• Coach/mentor team members on Project Management skills

QUALIFICATIONS

Education / Experience / Background

• High School diploma or GED equivalent required.
• Minimum of 6 years of experience in IT project management
• Proven experience successfully leading and managing multiple, parallel complex IT projects.
• Demonstrated experience in personnel management.
• Experience in working both independently and in a team-oriented, collaborative environment is essential.

Knowledge / Skills / Abilities

• Strong experience in managing project teams and stakeholders.
• Strong familiarity with project management software
• Strong understanding of project management methodologies and best practices
• Excellent leadership, communication, listening, and interpersonal skills.
• Strong problem-solving and decision-making abilities
• Reacts to project adjustments and alterations promptly and efficiently.
• Persuasive, encouraging, and motivating.
• Ability to communicate ideas in both technical and user-friendly language.
• Proven analytical and creative problem-solving abilities.
• Experience in leading contract project teams
• Required Certification / Licenses / Training
• PMP certification