Program Manager

Zelis; Boston (MA); Hybrid; USD 115,000 - 145,000; Full time

Job summary

Zelis is evolving toward an AI-first operating model and seeks an experienced program manager to own end-to-end governance for AI initiatives. You will connect engineering, product, and operations, translating ambiguity into clear executive updates while maintaining momentum on critical programs.

You’ll build an operating model to maximize impact in AI-driven technology, manage cross-functional dependencies, and coordinate with external vendors when needed.

Qualifications

• 8+ years of program or project management with multi-team accountability.
• Experience reporting to VP or senior leadership with concise updates.
• Strong written communication to synthesize complex status.

Responsibilities

• Own program tracking across AI and strategic tech initiatives.
• Design and maintain a governance framework with charters and gates.
• Build executive reporting cadence for leadership audiences.
• Surface risks early and drive cross-functional resolutions.
• Facilitate alignment on AI priorities, sequencing, and resources.
• Manage intake for new strategic programs and set timelines.
• Track progress toward AI operating model adoption across tech teams.
• Coordinate with vendors on AI programs and keep stakeholders informed.
• Contribute to PMO standards and Agile/Kanban delivery models.

Skills

Program management

Executive reporting

Written communication

AI tools

Ambiguity management

Bachelor's degree

Cross-functional collaboration

Education

Bachelor's degree

Tools

AI tools

Job description

At Zelis, we Get Stuff Done. So, let’s get to it!

A Little About Us

Zelis is modernizing the healthcare financial experience across payers, providers, and healthcare consumers. We serve more than 750 payers, including the top five national health plans, regional health plans, TPAs and millions of healthcare providers and consumers across our platform of solutions. Zelis sees across the system to identify, optimize, and solve problems holistically with technology built by healthcare experts – driving real, measurable results for clients.

At Zelis, AI is woven into the fabric of how we work. Every associate is expected - and empowered - to partner with AI to challenge the status quo, accelerate innovation, and amplify their impact. This is a place for builders with a growth mindset who act with agility, embrace change, and use modern technology to shape smarter solutions, exceptional experiences, and the future of our industry for our clients, customers, and our culture.

A Little About You

You bring a unique blend of personality and professional expertise to your work, inspiring others with your passion and dedication. Your career is a testament to your diverse experiences, community involvement, and the valuable lessons you've learned along the way. You are more than just your resume; you are a reflection of your achievements, the knowledge you've gained, and the personal interests that shape who you are.

Position Overview

Zelis is evolving toward an AI-first operating model. This role owns end-to-end program management for AI and strategic technology initiatives, creating the visibility, governance, and reporting structure that leadership needs to drive these transformations forward.

You’ll be the connective tissue across engineering, product, and operations on high-visibility programs. Your core mission is structure in ambiguity: translating complex program status into clear executive communication, managing cross-functional dependencies, and keeping momentum on initiatives that matter to the organization.

Help us build and refine an operating model that maximizes our potential in the new landscape of AI technology!

What You’ll Do

• Own program tracking across all active AI and strategic technology initiatives, maintaining a single source of truth on program status, milestones, and risks.
• Design and maintain a program governance framework: charters, decision gates, milestone cadences, and escalation paths.
• Build and manage a regular executive reporting cadence, producing clear, concise program updates for VP and senior leadership audiences.
• Partner with the Director of Agile PMO to surface program risks early and drive resolution across engineering, product, and operations stakeholders.
• Facilitate cross-functional alignment on AI initiative priorities, sequencing, and resource conflicts.
• Manage intake and initial scoping for new strategic program requests, working with leadership to assess feasibility and set realistic timelines.
• Track and communicate progress against AI operating model adoption goals across technology teams.
• Coordinate with external vendors and partners on AI programs where applicable, managing deliverables and keeping internal stakeholders informed.
• Contribute to PMO delivery standards, particularly as the organization evolves its Agile and Kanban-based delivery models.

What You’ll Bring To Zelis

• 8+ years of program or project management experience with direct accountability for multi-team, strategic programs.
• Demonstrated experience managing programs with VP or senior leadership visibility and executive reporting responsibility.
• Strong written communication skills; ability to synthesize complex program status into concise leadership updates.
• Proficiency with AI tools and experience developing intelligent prompts, workflows, or lightweight automation.
• Comfort operating in ambiguous, fast-moving environments with competing priorities.
• Bachelor's degree in a relevant field.

Preferred Qualifications

• Prior experience on AI transformation, data platform, or technology modernization programs.
• PMP, PMI-ACP, or PgMP certification.
• Familiarity with SAFe, Kanban, or hybrid Agile delivery models at scale.
• Master's degree in business, technology management, or a related field.
• Experience working inside a PMO or Center of Excellence function.

Please note at this time we are unable to proceed with candidates who require visa sponsorship now or in the future.

Location and Workplace Flexibility

Zelis is headquartered in the U.S., with multiple locations across the country and in Hyderabad, India. Check out our locations to learn more about our offices. All employee work locations are based on the needs of the position and are determined by the Leadership team. In-office work and activities vary based on work and team objectives in accordance with Company policies.

While location expectations vary by role, candidates within approximately 50 miles of a U.S. office are generally preferred to support collaboration when needed. Our hybrid approach is flexible, and in-office presence is guided by team and business needs rather than a fixed weekly schedule.

Base Salary Range

$115,000.00 - $145,350.00

At Zelis we are committed to providing fair and equitable compensation packages. The base salary range allows us to make an offer that considers multiple individualized factors, including experience, education, qualifications, as well as job-related and industry-related knowledge and skills, etc. Base pay is just one part of our Total Rewards package, which may also include discretionary bonus plans, commissions, or other incentives depending on the role.

Zelis’ full-time associates are eligible for a highly competitive benefits package as well, which demonstrates our commitment to our employees’ health, well-being, and financial protection. The US-based benefits include a 401k plan with employer match, flexible paid time off, holidays, parental leaves, life and disability insurance, and health benefits including medical, dental, vision, and prescription drug coverage.

Equal Employment Opportunity

Zelis is proud to be an equal opportunity employer. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, age, sex, national origin, disability status, genetics, protected veteran status, sexual orientation, gender identity or expression, or any other characteristic protected by federal, state or local laws.

We welcome applicants from all backgrounds and encourage you to apply even if you don’t meet 100% of the qualifications for the role. We believe in the value of diverse perspectives and experiences and are committed to building an inclusive workplace for all.

Accessibility Support

We are dedicated to ensuring our application process is accessible to all candidates. If you are a qualified individual with a disability or a disabled veteran and require a reasonable accommodation with any part of the application and/or interview process, please email [e-mail].

Disclaimer

The above statements are intended to describe the general nature and level of work being performed by people assigned to this classification. They are not to be construed as an exhaustive list of all responsibilities, duties, and skills required of personnel so classified. All personnel may be required to perform duties outside of their normal responsibilities, duties, and skills from time to time.