Manager, Technical Program Management

To qualify for the Manager, Technical Program Management role at Ai2, candidates should have at least 8 years of experience in product or program management, alongside 2 years of management experience in cross-functional environments. A bachelor’s degree in Computer Science, Data Science, or a related field is preferred. Additionally, proven experience in hiring high-performing teams and strong relationship-building skills are crucial.

As the Manager, Technical Program Management at Ai2, you will manage and support a team of Technical Program Managers, ensuring they thrive in a dynamic setting. Responsibilities include hiring and mentoring TPMs, fostering team culture, driving collaboration across functions, and engaging with stakeholders to track progress and implement strategic initiatives, making an impactful contribution to Ai2’s flagship projects.

The Manager, Technical Program Management role is essential for achieving Ai2’s strategic goals, as you will oversee the execution of foundational AI projects. By encouraging best practices and facilitating collaboration among diverse teams, you will directly influence product development while ensuring alignment with the organization’s long-term vision and core mission.

At Ai2, the work environment is collaborative and dynamic, perfect for those who thrive in fast-paced settings. You will have the opportunity to work closely with diverse teams of researchers, engineers, and leaders. The atmosphere encourages transparency and open communication, fostering a culture where innovation and team successes are celebrated.

Working as a Manager, Technical Program Management at Ai2 opens up substantial long-term career prospects. The position enables you to develop your leadership skills and gain invaluable experience in managing cross-functional teams. Moreover, Ai2’s commitment to employee development and mentorship presents opportunities for professional growth, helping you to advance within the organization or wider tech industry.

My management style is both collaborative and supportive. I believe in empowering team members by recognizing their individual strengths and creating an environment where open communication is encouraged. In a Technical Program Management role, this approach helps to streamline processes and enhance project outcomes.

In a Technical Program Management role, handling shifting priorities involves strong organizational skills and adaptability. I prioritize effectively by using robust project management tools and keeping communication open among team members. This approach allows us to pivot quickly when necessary while maintaining focus on our ultimate goals.

I once led a project that required collaboration between engineering, design, and marketing teams. By facilitating regular check-ins and encouraging feedback across functions, I was able to align diverse perspectives towards a common goal, ultimately delivering the project ahead of schedule and under budget.

My strategies for mentoring involve one-on-one sessions to set personalized development goals, coupled with providing hands-on experience on critical projects. Additionally, I encourage my team to participate in workshops and training to enhance their skills and stay updated with industry trends.

To ensure stakeholder alignment during a project, I implement regular status updates and utilize project management tools that provide visibility for all parties. By creating a culture of transparency and encouraging open dialogue, I foster an environment where concerns and suggestions can be discussed, minimizing misalignment.

Effective risk management starts at the project initiation phase. I conduct thorough assessments and identify potential risks, followed by establishing mitigation strategies. Regularly revisiting these risks during project meetings keeps the team prepared for any challenges that may arise.

Technical knowledge is crucial in Technical Program Management as it allows managers to bridge the gap between technical teams and stakeholders. Understanding the technology enables me to facilitate better communication, make informed decisions quickly, and provide appropriate guidance when challenges arise.

Strengthening team culture in a fast-paced environment involves promoting collaboration, recognizing achievements, and fostering a sense of belonging. I make it a priority to celebrate successes, encourage social activities, and ensure that everyone feels valued and heard, which boosts morale and productivity.

If faced with a difficult team member, I would first approach them directly to understand their perspective. I believe in addressing issues head-on and working together to find solutions. If necessary, I would involve HR or utilize performance management strategies to help guide them positively.

During a project that faced unforeseen challenges, I identified crucial process gaps that hindered progress. By analyzing the situation and presenting a revised plan to stakeholders, I successfully drove strategic changes that refocused our efforts and led to positive outcomes for the project.