"Program Manager for Special Projects"

Job Description

The Program Manager for Special Projects reports directly to the Associate Vice President (AVP) of Student Success and plays a key role in supporting initiatives that enhance student outcomes. This position is responsible for coordinating special projects, supporting strategic initiatives, and monitoring activities and outcomes associated with grants and donor-funded programs. The Program Manager ensures effective implementation, compliance, and reporting of programmatic activities, working collaboratively with internal departments and external partners.

This position may pay more than the salary listed above depending on the qualifications and experience of the selected candidate.

Responsibilities:

Project Coordination & Support

• Assist the AVP of Student Success in managing high-priority and cross-functional special projects.
• Coordinate timelines, deliverables, and communication for strategic initiatives aligned with student success.
• Track progress of special projects and prepare status updates and briefings for leadership.

Grants and Donor-Funded Program Oversight

• Monitor implementation of programs funded by grants and donor gifts to ensure alignment with funding goals and institutional priorities.
• Assist with program budgeting, expenditure tracking, and financial reporting in collaboration with finance and development offices.
• Ensure compliance with grant/donor requirements, including reporting deadlines, outcomes tracking, and evaluation measures.

Reporting & Evaluation

• Collect, analyze, and interpret data related to funded programs; prepare dashboards and reports for internal and external stakeholders.
• Draft narrative and financial reports for grantors and donors as required.
• Maintain accurate records and documentation for audits and reviews.

Stakeholder Engagement

• Serve as a liaison between the Office of Student Success, development office, grant office, and program managers.
• Coordinate meetings, prepare agendas and materials, and document action items for follow-up.

Administrative & Operational Support

• Support proposal development for new funding opportunities in collaboration with the AVP and campus partners.
• Assist in preparing presentations, executive summaries, and communications for internal and external stakeholders.
• Perform general administrative tasks related to the management of special projects and programmatic oversight.
• Performs other duties as assigned.

Required Education and Experience:

• Bachelor's degree
• Five years of related experience.

Required Knowledge, Skills and Abilities:

• Knowledge of word processing and spreadsheet applications.
• Effective verbal and written communication skills.
• Strong interpersonal, leadership, problem solving, and organizational skills.
• Maintains attention to detail and utilizes sound judgment.
• Ability to multitask and work cooperatively with others.

Preferred Qualifications:

• Master's degree in education, public administration, business or related field.
• Experience in project management, grant administration, or program coordination in a higher education or nonprofit setting.
• Strong analytical and written communication skills.
• Ability to manage multiple priorities and work independently and collaboratively.