Manager of Strategic Programs

Overview

We are seeking a strategic leader to manage our programs and services, ensuring their effective execution and evaluation. This role requires a strong liaison between schools and partner organizations, as well as the ability to communicate effectively with key stakeholders. The ideal candidate will be highly effective in communication, facilitation, and project management skills.

Position Summary

As a manager of our advising programs and services, you will oversee the planning, execution, and evaluation of projects. You will serve as a point of contact for schools and partners, provide support to staff, and regularly communicate with key stakeholders. Your ability to facilitate meetings, create content, and develop strategies will be crucial in this role.

Essential Functions

The advisor program manager performs a variety of functions that are primarily categorized into seven work areas: program design, operations management and monitoring, budgeting, business development, leadership and development of staff, research and evaluation, and additional responsibilities. Some specific duties include initiating, planning, and documenting programs; understanding program logic models; assisting with the design of programs; developing strategies for implementation; preparing, supporting, and managing program plans; and ensuring accurate tracking of services.

Program Design

• Initiate, plan, and document programs and projects for Advising Programs and Services
• Understand program logic models and theory of change that define the logic of the work College Now does
• Assist with the design of programs and services that support organizational goals
• Develop strategies with the Director for effective program implementation
• Prepare, support, and manage program management plans for Advising Program and Services locations
• Ensure program design matches funding source and stakeholder requirements

Program Operations, Management, and Monitoring

• Manage projects, programs, and services in schools and partner sites
• Monitor progress toward program goals by interpreting reports and adjusting operations as needed to meet goals
• Ensure accurate tracking of services in College Now's data management system
• Maintain appropriate confidentiality of data
• Develop student recruitment strategies, including materials, in collaboration with site coordinators and Manager of Advising Programs and Services
• Provide college and career access advising services when needed and in support of advising team members
• Fill in for direct service staff as needed

Program Budgeting

• Track, review, and recommend program expenditures, and communicate regularly with the program team
• Track and record the budget to ensure expenses are on track/within budget and attend regular budget meetings as necessary

Business Development Support

• Maintain external communication with reputable partners according to stakeholder engagement plan
• Participate in grant process, through support of stories, if applicable
• Advocate for additional or sustained services with external stakeholders
• Maintain awareness of MOU process and content with external stakeholders when services or space are required

Leadership and Development of Staff

• Develop and facilitate content for internal and external training of organization team members
• Supervise, train, coach, and support staff individually and as a functioning team within assigned program portfolio on college access and career exploration
• Conduct ongoing performance management processes
• Encourage and model participation in professional development opportunities that foster growth in knowledge of college access areas
• Participate in the selection of team members through interviewing, hiring, and onboarding

Research and Program Evaluation/Compliance

• Ensure accurate and complete records for reporting
• Ensure compliance with program requirements

Additional Responsibilities

• Collaborate internally with Advising Programs and Services management team members to ensure seamless delivery of programs and projects
• Attend College Now organizational level managers meetings
• Attend community events/meetings/fundraisers on behalf of College Now (as needed)

Must-Have Skills

Experience working in a team environment with a collaborative focus is essential. Problem-solving and troubleshooting skills, along with the ability to manage complex situations creatively and professionally, are also critical. Strong written and verbal communication skills, as well as the ability to present to groups, are must-haves. Knowledge of financial aid regulations and compliance is preferred but not required.

Must-Have Technical Skills

• Proficient in Microsoft Office and Customer Relationship Management Systems
• Ability to analyze and create data
• Facilitate meetings on virtual meeting tools such as Teams, Zoom, Google Meet, and GoToMeeting
• Use software for surveys, quizzes, and assessments like Mentimeter, Poll Everywhere, Jamboard, or others

Previous Work Experience

Generally, 3 to 5 years of experience working in education, higher education, related non-profit or service organization, or college and career access organization is required. A background in federally funded programs such as TRiO, GEAR UP, or 21st Century is helpful. Familiarity with the designated communities is desirable. Experience working with youth is ideal. Knowledge of career exploration and college access is preferred.

Education Requirement

A bachelor's degree in related fields of education, counseling, sociology, psychology, social work, and nonprofit management is ideal. A master's degree in education, social work, counseling, and public health is also acceptable.

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