Program Director – 6 month contract

David Aplin Recruiting; Alberta; On-site; CAD 100,000 - 130,000; Full time

Job summary

A consulting firm in Canada is seeking a Strategic Program Director for a six-month contract to lead the Business Technology Renewal Program. The role involves designing a program management framework, managing initiatives, and ensuring alignment with organizational priorities. The ideal candidate should have over 10 years of experience in IT program management, preferably with PMP certification. Responsibilities include stakeholder engagement and providing strategic guidance to teams.

Qualifications

• 10+ years of progressive experience in IT program and project management.
• PMP certification strongly preferred.
• Thorough understanding of project/program management techniques.

Responsibilities

• Design and implement a program management framework.
• Work closely with program sponsors to determine scope and vision.
• Track program deliverables and outcomes.

Skills

Program management framework design

Stakeholder engagement

Strategic leadership

Project management standards

Budget management

Education

Bachelor’s degree in Information Technology, Business, or related field

Master’s degree

Job description

Our client is looking for a strategic Program Director for a six-month contract to lead their Business Technology Renewal (BTR) Program. In this role, you will provide strategic leadership and oversight, ensuring all program initiatives align with organizational priorities. You’ll be responsible for designing and implementing program management frameworks that support the achievement of strategic goals.

As a subject matter expert, you will play a key role in strengthening project management standards and practices. Working closely with IT leadership, project managers, and stakeholders, you will define objectives, manage initiatives, and drive successful outcomes that support the organization’s long-term priorities.

Responsibilities:

• Design and implement a program management framework that integrates multiple projects under clear governance.
• Work closely with the Director, Business Relationships to ensure program management framework meets the strategic needs of the organization.
• Work closely with program sponsors to determine program scope and vision.
• Partner with the program sponsors, implementation teams, and project managers to define scope, deliverables, resources, work plans, budgets, and timelines for BTR program.
• Provide strategic guidance to BTR program teams and project managers.
• Clearly identify program stakeholders and keep them abreast and engaged.
• Facilitate workshops and planning sessions with IT staff, leadership, and business units.
• Communicate program management approaches and progress to leadership.
• Track program deliverables and outcomes, making adjustments as needed to keep initiatives aligned with goals and expected results.
• Provide guidance to the Manager, Project Management in developing standardized project management processes, templates, and tools tailored for the environment.
• Provide knowledge transfer and acts as subject matter expert to IT staff on program and project management best practices.

Position Requirements:

• Bachelor’s degree in Information Technology, Business, or related field (Master’s preferred).
• PMP certification strongly preferred.
• PgMP certification an asset but not required.
• 10+ years of progressive experience in IT program and project management.
• Thorough understanding of project/program management techniques and methods.
• Proven record of establishing PMO/program governance in complex organizations.
• Experience in higher education or public-sector environments is an asset.

We welcome applicants from all backgrounds and charge no fees to apply or engage with our recruiters. Our clients partner with us to help expand and diversify their teams. Please note that all applicants must be legally entitled to work in Canada, including holding any necessary work permits.