Strategic Programs Lead — Cross-Functional Delivery

Vanderbilt University; Nashville (TN); Hybrid; USD 100,000 - 135,000; Full time

Job summary

Vanderbilt University is seeking a Senior Project Manager in Nashville to lead planning, execution, and optimization of high‑visibility programs within Development and Alumni Relations. This role drives portfolio management, governance, and executive reporting in collaboration with senior leaders and external consultants.

The role emphasizes risk management, data‑driven decision making, and strong stakeholder engagement to deliver on institutional priorities and milestones.

Qualifications

• Five+ years of experience leading executive-level projects.
• Experience using project management software to track schedules and deliverables.
• Ability to think strategically and manage multiple projects in a dynamic environment.
• Strong organizational and planning skills with alignment to goals.
• Excellent interpersonal and communication abilities across stakeholders.

Responsibilities

• Lead planning, execution, and implementation of executive‑level programs.
• Develop program frameworks, governance structures, and timelines.
• Track data, metrics, and outcomes for governance reviews.
• Identify process improvements and escalate risks promptly.
• Deliver executive updates, summaries, and reports to leadership.
• Collaborate with campus partners and external stakeholders.
• Contribute to project management process improvements.
• Provide day‑to‑day support for project activities.
• Prepare reports for senior leadership review.
• Align resources and remove barriers to delivery.

Skills

Strategic planning

Cross-functional

Stakeholder mgmt

Risk management

Data analysis

Executive comms

Time management

Problem solving

Independent work

Education

Bachelor’s degree

HOD major preferred

PM certification preferred

Tools

Microsoft Excel

Word

PowerPoint

Job description

Vanderbilt University is seeking a Senior Project Manager in Nashville to lead planning, execution, and optimization of high‑visibility programs within Development and Alumni Relations. This role drives portfolio management, governance, and executive reporting in collaboration with senior leaders and external consultants.

The role emphasizes risk management, data‑driven decision making, and strong stakeholder engagement to deliver on institutional priorities and milestones.