Lead Program Manager

Zenith System Solutions; Plano (TX); Hybrid; USD 140,000 - 200,000; Full time

Job summary

Zenith System Solutions is seeking a Lead Program Manager in Plano, TX to lead large, multi-initiative technology programs and guide delivery teams to achieve strategic business outcomes.

The role requires strong experience in Agile and SAFe frameworks, cross-team collaboration, and executive communications. You will manage budgets, benefits realization, and ROI while balancing technical constraints with business priorities.

Qualifications

• Bachelor’s degree in Computer Science, Engineering, or a related field.
• MBA or Master’s degree preferred for higher responsibilities.
• 8+ years of technology delivery or program management experience.

Responsibilities

• Own major programs comprising multiple initiatives and delivery teams.
• Recommend sequencing, re-prioritization, or de-scoping of initiatives based on delivery and value.
• Translate business strategy into integrated technology roadmaps and execution plans.
• Lead end-to-end program lifecycle from intake to delivery and stabilization.
• Oversee multiple Agile teams using Scrum, SAFe, or hybrid delivery models.
• Ensure delivery quality, cadence, and transparency across teams.
• Manage program budgets, forecasts, and milestone-based funding.
• Partner with Finance and leadership on investment decisions and prioritization.

Skills

Project management

Leadership

Stakeholder communication

Agile/Scrum/SAFe

Cloud/Networks

Education

Bachelor’s degree in Computer Science or related field

Master’s degree or MBA preferred

Tools

Jira

MS Excel

Job description

Education: Bachelor’s degree in Computer Science, Engineering, or a related field.

Role Overview

We are looking for a Lead Program Manager to lead large and complex technology programs, manage multiple initiatives and delivery teams, drive strategic execution, and ensure successful delivery of business and technology outcomes.

Job Duties and Responsibilities

• Own major programs comprising multiple initiatives and technical and operational delivery teams.
• Recommend sequencing, re-prioritization, or de-scoping of initiatives based on delivery performance, financial health, and value realization.
• Translate business strategy into integrated technology roadmaps and execution plans.
• Manage sequencing, dependencies, and trade-offs across initiatives.
• Track and drive benefits realization, outcomes, and adoption metrics.

Program Execution & Agile Delivery

• Lead the end-to-end program lifecycle from intake and funding through delivery and stabilization.
• Oversee multiple Agile teams using Scrum, SAFe, or hybrid delivery models.
• Ensure consistent delivery quality, cadence, and transparency across teams.
• Proactively manage risks, dependencies, and cross-team challenges.
• Measure and report program delivery health and remediation plans.
• Manage program-level budgets, forecasts, and milestone-based funding.
• Partner with Finance and leadership on investment decisions and prioritization.
• Monitor financial health, delivery performance, and ROI throughout the program lifecycle.
• Support funding reallocation and investment trade-off decisions based on performance.

Technical & Domain Leadership

• Serve as a trusted technology partner with a strong understanding of assigned technology domains.
• Collaborate with Architecture and Engineering teams to ensure solutions are scalable, secure, and aligned with enterprise standards.
• Balance technical constraints with business priorities.
• Work across software platforms, APIs, cloud, DOCSIS, Wi‑Fi, mobile/5G, and related technologies.

Stakeholder & Executive Engagement

• Act as the primary point of accountability for program status, outcomes, and risks.
• Communicate program priorities, business impact, and change management requirements effectively.
• Prepare and deliver executive-level communications, including roadmap updates and investment insights.
• Facilitate decision-making forums and governance reviews.

Team & Capability Leadership

• Mentor and coach Project Managers and Coordinators.
• Promote Agile and outcome-driven delivery practices.
• Drive continuous improvement in program governance, delivery efficiency, and operating models.

Required Qualifications

Education

• Bachelor’s degree in Computer Science, Engineering, or a related field.
• Master’s degree or MBA preferred.

Experience

• 8+ years of experience in technology delivery, engineering, or program management.
• 3+ years of experience leading large and complex programs or value streams.
• Experience in telecommunications, broadband, cable, or mobile technologies is strongly preferred.

Technical & Domain Knowledge

• Knowledge of software delivery and/or network technologies such as DOCSIS, Wi‑Fi, PON, LTE/5G.
• Knowledge of cloud platforms, DevOps, APIs, SDN/NFV.
• Strong systems thinking across platforms and products.

Delivery & Financial Acumen

• Advanced experience in Agile, Scrum, and/or SAFe environments.
• Experience managing multi-initiative program budgets, forecasts, milestones, and investment trade-offs.
• Experience supporting investment prioritization and funding reallocation based on performance.
• Experience presenting financial information and business narratives to executives.
• Comfortable working in matrixed and fast-changing environments.

Role Variations

• Software Delivery Lead Program Manager: Focus on Agile software platforms, APIs, and cloud-based services.
• Network & Broadband Lead Program Manager: Focus on DOCSIS, Wi‑Fi, PON, mobile/5G, and device ecosystems.
• Technology Business Operations Lead Program Manager: Focus on portfolio execution, governance, financial tracking, and executive enablement.