Program Manager, Office of Research Innovation, & Economic Development-UTK at University of Tennessee

DescriptionThe Program Manager for AI Tennessee supports the execution of strategic initiatives across research technology and engagement overseeing multiple complex projects from planning through completion. This role plays a key part in shaping operational strategy and cross-unit alignment with opportunities to influence program direction and drive outcomes. The Program Manager works closely with leadership to drive progress on internal investments and external partnerships that advance AI Tennessees mission. This position can be in the office or hybrid.ResponsibilitiesStrategic Project Coordination & Documentation:-Lead the development and maintenance of comprehensive documentation frameworks that support high-level decision-making at the AVC level and for the AI Tennessee leadership team-Independently assesses and recommends adjustments to improve clarity and coherence of strategic goals proactively identifying gaps or misalignments-Prepare and present project status updates reports and presentations for leadership and stakeholders synthesizing insights across projects-Support strategic planning and road map development for future initiatives related to AI Tennessee-Develop a structured approach for timely project updates ensuring fluid communication across the team-Provide informed recommendations on prioritization and resource allocation to support timely and effective project execution-Anticipate risks and implement mitigation strategies to ensure the timely delivery of outcomesOperational Efficiency & Process Improvement:-Implement project management tools and best practices-Facilitate accountability across collaborators by tracking progress and surfacing barriers to execution-Recommend improvements to senior leadership on innovations to enhance operational workflows streamlining processes while maintaining program integrity-Manage multiple projects and assignments independently or as part of a team.-Use effective communication methods to foster interaction and collaboration across the University in support of efficiencies removing impediments to workflowStakeholder Engagement & Event Strategy:-Serve as the primary point of contact for AI Tennessee events and engagements ensuring alignment with programmatic priorities-Make decisions about event structure and engagement objectives collaborating with the administrative team on logistical execution-Manage stakeholder communications and lead post-event follow-up to evaluate impact and inform future planning-Represent AI Tennessee at meetings conferences and stakeholder engagements liaising with internal communications staff and external contractors to ensure consistent messaging.OTHER DUTIES AS ASSIGNED:-As requiredQualificationsRequired QualificationsEducation:Bachelors Degree in a relevant field of study.Experience:Minimum of three (3) years of progressively responsible experience in program or project managementExperience implementing project management tools and tracking progressExperience coordinating across units and engaging diverse stakeholdersKnowledge Skills Abilities:Knowledge of project management principles and tools (e.g. Asana ClickUp Smartsheet Jira)Skill in organizing and managing multiple concurrent projects with attention to detailAbility to analyze project documentation and identify strategic gapsAbility to work independently and collaboratively in a fast-paced environmentStrong written and verbal communication skillsAbility to implement process improvements and track operational metricsAbility to travel in support of AI Tennessee on occasionPreferred QualificationsEducation:Masters Degree in a relevant field of study.Experience:Experience in academic research or innovation-focused settingsExperience supporting faculty or research teamsKnowledge Skills Abilities:Knowledge of academic research environments and innovation ecosystemsAbility to interpret strategic goals and translate them into operational plansKnowledge of event planning strategy and stakeholder engagement best practicesWork LocationLocation: Knoxville TNOnsite HybridCompensation and BenefitsUT market range: 11Anticipated hiring range: 11Find more information on the UT Market Range structurehereFind more information on UT BenefitshereApplication InstructionsTo express interest please submit an application with the noted below attachments.ResumeCover LetterList of 3 Professional ReferencesRequired Experience:Manager Key Skills Project Management Methodology,Project / Program Management,Program Management,Management Experience,Microsoft Powerpoint,Project Management,Microsoft Project,Budgeting,DoD Experience,Leadership Experience,Supervising Experience,Contracts Employment Type : Full-Time Experience: years Vacancy: 1