Program Manager - job 2 of 3

The Program Manager at the New York City Department of Youth and Community Development is responsible for overseeing the approval and processing of discretionary contracts, conducting desk reviews and site visits, and providing technical assistance to community-based organizations. This role requires strong analytical skills and the ability to work independently while keeping the Director updated on progress.

Candidates for the Program Manager position at the New York City Department of Youth and Community Development must possess a bachelor’s degree from an accredited college along with two years of experience in community work. Alternatively, a high school diploma combined with six years of relevant experience would also be acceptable. A minimum of one year of community work experience is mandatory.

The Program Manager plays a crucial role in community development by managing contracts that fund community-based organizations. By approving and processing these contracts, the Program Manager helps ensure that vital services reach those in need, directly impacting the well-being of New Yorkers and the effectiveness of community programs.

Key skills for a successful Program Manager at the New York City Department of Youth and Community Development include strong analytical and organizational abilities, excellent communication skills, and proficiency in managing contracts and budgets. The ability to foster relationships with community organizations and provide clear guidance and support is also essential.

The Program Manager provides vital support to community-based organizations (CBOs) by addressing their technical assistance needs, offering insights on compliance with contracts, and ensuring they have the resources necessary for successful program implementation. This role helps strengthen the connection between DYCD and the communities it serves.

When answering this question, be sure to highlight specific projects you've managed, the roles you played, and the outcomes achieved. Discuss how your actions directly impacted the community and any challenges you faced, emphasizing your problem-solving skills and adaptability.

A strong response would include discussing your organizational strategies, such as using project management tools, creating timelines, and communicating effectively with your team to ensure on-time completion of all contract-related tasks.

Talk about qualitative and quantitative methods you've used to assess program success, such as participant feedback, performance metrics, and outcome measurements. Highlight how this evaluation feeds into your reporting processes and enhances program delivery.

You're expected to monitor performance regularly, provide guidance to stakeholders, and conduct site visits. Discuss your systematic approach to tracking compliance and your communication strategy for maintaining strong relationships with CBOs.

Here, use a specific example where you facilitated a resolution, emphasizing your negotiation skills, ability to listen, and how you worked towards a win-win outcome while keeping organizational goals in mind.

Explain how you utilize data to inform your decisions, improve program effectiveness, and make necessary adjustments. Discuss the importance of data in reporting to leadership and stakeholders.

Indicate how you engage with community stakeholders, attend workshops, and utilize surveys or feedback mechanisms. Stress the importance of having your finger on the pulse of the community to effectively advocate for their needs.

Discuss strategies such as re-prioritizing program elements, cutting non-essential expenses, or seeking additional funding sources. Present an example of how you've successfully navigated a similar challenge in the past.

Make sure to highlight your attention to detail, the types of reports you've prepared, and the kind of metrics you focus on. Point out how those reports have influenced decisions or led to improved program outcomes.

Reflect on qualities such as leadership, empathy, and strong communication skills. Explain how these traits enable a Program Manager to effectively support community-based initiatives and foster a collaborative environment.