[Hiring] Program Director, Strategic Initiatives @UMass Global

Role Description

The Project Director, Strategic Initiatives is a proactive and solutions-oriented leader who manages complex, cross-functional initiatives that support the university’s strategic plan. The role requires an innovative thinker who anticipates challenges, identifies creative solutions, and accelerates decision-making to keep initiatives on track. The role requires knowledge of academic and operational processes in non-traditional higher education universities to bring major initiatives to go-live. The position translates executive priorities into actionable workflows, secures institutional buy-in across academic and operational units, and drives timely completion of major initiatives.

This is a full-time position with an initial 2-year term.

Qualifications

• 5-7 years' experience in project management or strategic operations, with increasing responsibility, preferably in higher education.
• Bachelor’s degree required. Master’s degree preferred in higher education, organizational leadership, or related field.
• PMP Certification or similar certification preferred.

Requirements

• Demonstrated knowledge of non-traditional and online models serving working adult learners.
• Demonstrated knowledge of institutional planning, project lifecycles, including workflow design, timeline development, and cross-functional implementation.
• Strong analytical skills, with exceptional judgment and the ability to support rapid decision-making.
• Excellent communication and facilitation skills able to engage stakeholders at all levels.
• Strong proactive leadership skills that promote innovative problem-solving and outside-the-box thinking.
• Proven ability to coordinate and influence leaders at all levels across all university divisions.
• Proven ability to think proactively, strategically, and creatively to overcome barriers.
• Proven ability to navigate ambiguous, fast-paced environments and guide teams through change.

Benefits

• Medical, dental, and vision coverage with spending account options.
• Remote options, flexible schedules, 1/2 day Fridays (biweekly), generous time off, including paid holidays and a paid winter break.
• Life, disability, accident, legal, identity protection, and student debt support.
• 403(b) plan with a Roth option. 3% non-elective contribution and up to 6% match for a 9% total employer contribution!
• Tuition discounts for employees and family and Tuition Exchange program with other universities. PSLF eligible employer.
• Counseling services, Free Calm Health subscription and year-round wellness programs.