Staff Technical Program Manager

As a Staff Technical Program Manager at Okta, you'll be responsible for coaching multiple Scrum teams, facilitating impactful Scrum ceremonies, and leading complex technical initiatives. This role combines both Scrum coaching and program management duties, requiring you to collaborate closely with Engineering, Product, and Design teams to ensure seamless execution on shared goals.

To qualify for the Staff Technical Program Manager at Okta, you should have at least 10 years of combined experience in Scrum coaching and technical program management. A strong foundation in Agile methodologies is essential, along with proven experience in delivering complex cloud-based software programs. Skills in stakeholder management, cross-functional collaboration, and the ability to influence without direct authority will also be key.

At Okta, we emphasize the importance of continuous improvement and collaboration within our Scrum teams. As a Staff Technical Program Manager, you will work to facilitate Scrum ceremonies, train teams in Scrum practices, and help to resolve any blockers they might encounter. This collaborative approach helps to enhance team performance and improve overall product quality.

The culture at Okta is vibrant, inclusive, and focused on growth. As a Staff Technical Program Manager, you'll thrive in a setting that encourages lifelong learning and diverse perspectives. We celebrate every team's unique experiences and place a high value on individual contributions, making it a fulfilling environment for someone passionate about technology and team dynamics.

Working as a Staff Technical Program Manager at Okta means engaging in a dual role where you not only coach Scrum teams but also drive the delivery of complex programs. You'll have the opportunity to mentor others while making strategic impacts within the company. Plus, expect fantastic benefits, a strong commitment to social impact, and resources designed to help you succeed.

When coaching a new Scrum team, I focus on understanding their unique dynamics and current practices. I emphasize the importance of the Scrum framework and gradually introduce core ceremonies while encouraging open communication for continuous feedback. Tailoring my approach based on the team's needs allows them to adapt effectively and enhance their collaboration.

I ensure Scrum ceremonies are structured with clear objectives and outcomes. Techniques include setting an agenda in advance, encouraging active participation, and using visual aids to track progress. I also facilitate discussions that focus on problem-solving and continuous improvement, making the ceremonies both productive and engaging for the team.

Once, a team faced significant communication barriers leading to misunderstandings in priorities. I organized a workshop with stakeholders to address these challenges, emphasizing transparency and regular updates. By fostering strong relationships and setting up daily syncs, the team improved their collaboration and reduced blockers, enhancing overall delivery.

I prioritize creating a shared understanding of goals and objectives through regular check-ins and status updates across teams. Utilizing tools like roadmaps and dashboards helps visualize progress and dependencies. Encouraging open communication fosters trust and alignment, ensuring everyone is working towards the same end result.

I utilize a combination of stakeholder input and team discussions to gauge priority levels across the backlog. Applying techniques like MoSCoW (Must have, Should have, Could have, Won't have) helps frame discussions around urgency and value. This collaborative process ensures that the team remains focused on impactful work.

My leadership style is collaborative and empowering. I believe in facilitating discussions and encouraging team ownership of processes. I strive to cultivate a culture of trust where team members feel safe to share ideas and challenges, allowing me to support their growth while guiding them toward Scrum excellence.

Proactive risk management is key in technical program management. I prioritize identifying potential risks early by engaging with all stakeholders. Regularly assessing the project’s health and utilizing mitigation strategies ensures we stay on track. Transparent communication about risks helps the team stay prepared for any challenges that may arise.

Feedback is integral to my coaching strategy. I encourage open dialogue and regular check-ins to gather insights on what’s working and what isn’t. Constructive feedback helps the team learn and grow, fostering an environment of continuous improvement. I also actively seek feedback on my coaching to refine my methods.

I invest time in continuous learning through online courses, webinars, and industry conferences. Engaging with the Agile community helps me stay informed about best practices and emerging trends. I also encourage knowledge sharing among my teams, fostering a culture of learning and adaptability.

One of my greatest achievements was leading a multi-team migration project where I successfully aligned cross-functional teams to deliver a complex software solution ahead of schedule. By fostering excellent communication, I improved collaboration and reduced delivery time by implementing agile methodologies effectively, reflecting our collective effort and commitment.