Program Manager Job Description [Updated for 2025]

In the era of technological innovation, the role of a program manager is more critical than ever before.

As technology continues to evolve, the need for strategic minds who can orchestively plan, supervise, and execute our digital initiatives is on the rise.

So, let’s delve deeper: What does a program manager role truly entail?

Whether you are:

• A job seeker trying to understand the core of this role,
• A hiring manager defining the perfect candidate,
• Or simply fascinated by the mechanisms of program management,

You’ve landed in the right place.

Today, we present a customizable program manager job description template, designed for effortless posting on job boards or career sites.

Let’s dive into the details.

Program Manager Duties and Responsibilities

Program Managers are responsible for overseeing a set of interrelated projects and ensuring successful delivery of the overall program.

They hold a strategic role and work closely with various stakeholders to achieve the business goals and objectives.

Their main duties and responsibilities include:

• Planning and defining the scope of the program and its individual projects
• Developing detailed project plans and tracking progress
• Coordinating internal resources and third parties for the flawless execution of projects
• Managing and mitigating risks to ensure on-time, within scope and within budget delivery
• Establishing and maintaining relationships with stakeholders
• Creating and maintaining comprehensive project documentation
• Reporting program status and escalating issues to upper management as needed
• Ensuring that all projects are delivered on-time, within scope and within budget
• Developing a detailed program plan to monitor and track progress
• Managing changes to the project scope, project schedule, and project costs using appropriate verification techniques
• Performing risk management to minimize project risks
• Coordinating the dependency management between different projects in the program

 

Program Manager Job Description Template

Job Brief

We are looking for a dedicated Program Manager to be responsible for coordinating and overseeing various projects across our organization.

The responsibilities of the Program Manager include establishing program objectives, managing project managers, developing budgets, and evaluating performance.

Our ideal candidate understands the project lifecycle and has experience in managing multiple projects concurrently.

The successful Program Manager will have a strategic mindset, strong leadership skills, and the ability to manage and inspire teams towards delivering the desired results.

 

Responsibilities

• Developing the program strategy and objectives
• Coordinating multiple projects within the program
• Managing and evaluating project managers and other staff
• Developing a budget and operating plan for the program
• Writing program funding proposals and providing reports to stakeholders
• Ensuring the program operations and activities adhere to legal guidelines and internal policies
• Reviewing project plans and directing changes if necessary
• Managing risks and issues and taking corrective measurements
• Coordinating the cross-project activities
• Creating and managing long-term goals

 

Qualifications

• Proven work experience as a Program Manager or other managerial position
• Thorough understanding of project/program management techniques and methods
• Excellent knowledge of performance evaluation techniques and key metrics
• Outstanding leadership and organizational skills
• Excellent problem-solving ability
• Excellent written and verbal communication skills
• BSc/BA degree in management or relevant field; MSc/MA will be a plus

 

Benefits

• 401(k)
• Health insurance
• Dental insurance
• Retirement plan
• Paid time off
• Professional development opportunities

 

Additional Information

• Job Title: Program Manager
• Work Environment: Office setting with options for remote work. Frequent travel may be required for program audits or team meetings.
• Reporting Structure: Reports to the Director of Program Management or Vice President.
• Salary: Salary is based upon candidate experience and qualifications, as well as market and business considerations.
• Pay Range: $100,000 minimum to $180,000 maximum
• Location: [City, State] (specify the location or indicate if remote)
• Employment Type: Full-time
• Equal Opportunity Statement: We are an equal opportunity employer and value diversity at our company. We do not discriminate on the basis of race, religion, color, national origin, gender, sexual orientation, age, marital status, veteran status, or disability status.
• Application Instructions: Please submit your resume and a cover letter outlining your qualifications and experience to [email address or application portal].

 

What Does a Program Manager Do?

Program Managers typically work within organizations across various industries, overseeing the successful execution of multiple related projects to deliver strategic and operational changes.

They work closely with project managers and other team members to ensure each project aligns with the organization’s goals and objectives.

Their job is to coordinate and manage the planning, implementation, and tracking of a short-term and long-term programs which include several projects.

They are responsible for setting deadlines, assigning responsibilities, and monitoring the progress of the program.

They are also tasked with managing risks and issues, taking corrective measures coordinating with all stakeholders.

Program Managers may also need to develop program budgets, control costs, and ensure that the program delivers the expected benefits and value.

They need to communicate regularly with senior management or the board of directors, providing updates and making strategic decisions.

 

Program Manager Qualifications and Skills

A proficient Program Manager should have the skills and qualifications that align with your job description, such as:

• Strong leadership skills to guide the team towards achieving the program’s objectives.
• Technical expertise to understand the intricacies of the projects included in the program.
• Exceptional interpersonal and communication skills to effectively liaise between different stakeholders and team members.
• Strategic thinking and problem-solving abilities to address potential roadblocks and implement effective solutions.
• Project management skills to oversee various projects within the program, ensuring they are completed within the defined scope, time, and budget.
• Financial management skills to develop budgets, control costs, and ensure the program delivers value for money.
• Risk management skills to identify potential risks and create contingency plans.
• Organizational skills to manage resources, schedules, and quality of work within the program.
• Understanding of change management processes to effectively implement changes that may occur during the lifecycle of the program.

 

Program Manager Experience Requirements

Program Managers typically have several years of project management experience.

Entry-level candidates for this role may have 3 to 5 years of experience, often earned through roles such as Project Coordinator or Project Manager, where they learn to manage resources, communicate effectively, and execute project plans.

Candidates often gain experience in a specific field, like Information Technology (IT), Finance, or Operations Management before moving into a Program Manager role.

This industry-specific experience is valuable because it provides a deep understanding of the complexity and challenges associated with managing multiple projects in that field.

For mid-level roles, candidates are expected to have more than 5 years of experience and may have earned a Project Management Professional (PMP) certification or other industry-recognized credentials.

These candidates have demonstrated their ability to manage multiple, often complex, projects and lead a team.

Senior-level Program Manager candidates often have 10 or more years of experience, including significant experience leading large teams and managing multiple projects.

These candidates also usually have a strong background in strategic planning and can articulate how their work aligns with the larger organizational goals.

In addition to work experience, many employers require Program Managers to have a bachelor’s degree in Business Administration, Management, or a related field.

A Master’s degree or MBA can also be beneficial and may be required for more senior roles.

 

Program Manager Education and Training Requirements

Program Managers typically hold a bachelor’s degree in business administration, management, or a related field.

They are expected to have a solid understanding of project management principles, and often, a Project Management Professional (PMP) certification is highly desirable.

This role requires extensive experience in the industry, so many Program Managers have worked their way up from project management or team leadership positions.

A strong understanding of budgeting and financial management is necessary, as is knowledge of the industry in which they are working.

Some employers may require a master’s degree in business administration (MBA) or a related field, particularly for more senior positions.

Program Managers often pursue additional professional development and training opportunities to keep their skills current and learn about new project management methodologies and technologies.

Furthermore, excellent communication, leadership, and problem-solving skills are crucial for this role.

As with many managerial positions, ongoing education and a commitment to continuous learning are typically viewed favorably.

 

Program Manager Salary Expectations

A Program Manager earns an average of $105,000 (USD) per year.

The actual salary may differ depending on the individual’s level of experience, the complexity of the program they manage, the industry, and the geographical location.

 

Program Manager Job Description FAQs

What skills does a program manager need?

Program Managers should possess superior organizational and planning skills as they are often managing several projects at once.

They also require strong communication and interpersonal skills to collaborate with different teams and stakeholders.

Analytical and problem-solving skills are essential, along with the ability to anticipate and mitigate risks.

Leadership and decision-making abilities are also key in a Program Manager role.

 

Do program managers need a degree?

While not always mandatory, most Program Managers have at least a bachelor’s degree in business administration, project management or a related field.

Higher level roles may require a master’s degree.

Some roles may also require certification such as Project Management Professional (PMP) or Certified Scrum Master (CSM).

 

What should you look for in a program manager resume?

In a Program Manager’s resume, look for a solid history of successfully managed projects or programs.

The resume should demonstrate their ability to deliver projects within the scope, on time, and within budget.

An effective Program Manager resume should also highlight their leadership skills, problem-solving capabilities, and their ability to work with a team.

Certifications relevant to program management can also be an added advantage.

 

What qualities make a good program manager?

A good Program Manager is a strong leader who can motivate a team to achieve project objectives.

They have excellent communication skills, both written and verbal, and can effectively liaise between different stakeholders.

They’re also adept at risk management, able to anticipate potential issues and implement preemptive solutions.

A good Program Manager is also highly organized, able to manage multiple projects at the same time without losing sight of the overall program goal.

 

Is it difficult to hire program managers?

Finding the right Program Manager can be challenging.

The role requires a unique blend of technical understanding, leadership skills, and business acumen.

A successful Program Manager will also need to fit well with the company culture and be able to communicate effectively with all levels of the organization.

Therefore, it can take time to find a candidate who possesses all these qualities.

 

Conclusion

And there you have it.

Today, we’ve shed light on what it truly means to be a program manager.

Surprised?

It’s not just about managing projects.

It’s about leading the charge in shaping the future, one project at a time.

Armed with our ultimate program manager job description template and real-world examples, you’re all set to advance.

But why halt your momentum?

Delve further with our job description generator. It’s your stepping stone to creating laser-focused job listings or polishing your resume to brilliance.

Bear in mind:

Every project is a piece of the larger puzzle.

Let’s construct that future. Together.

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