Project Manager Investment Operations & Accounting Ecosystem

As a Project Manager in the Investment Operations & Accounting Ecosystem at MassMutual, your primary responsibilities include planning, execution, and reporting of various projects within the Corporate Function Program Management Office (CFPMO). You will partner with project sponsors to create essential documentation like the Cost Benefit Analysis and Project Charter, develop detailed project plans, and manage scope and risks throughout the project lifecycle. Additionally, you'll be responsible for leading teams to ensure that projects meet predefined business requirements and stay within budget.

To apply for the Project Manager Investment Operations & Accounting Ecosystem position at MassMutual, candidates typically need a Bachelor's degree or equivalent experience along with 8+ years of project management experience. A proven track record in delivering complex, long-term projects on time and within budget is essential. Familiarity with project management methodologies and software such as MS Project, Smartsheet, and Jira is also required. Ideal candidates might have additional qualifications, including a Project Management Professional (PMP) certification and experience leading projects in investment management and capital markets.

MassMutual is committed to the professional growth of its Project Managers through various programs and resources. You will have regular meetings with the CFPMO and opportunities to engage in one-on-one discussions with your manager to discuss your career path. Access to mentorship opportunities and networking with diverse Business Resource Groups enhances your overall experience and provides a platform to learn from others. The company also features learning content on platforms like Degreed to help you expand your industry knowledge.

As a Project Manager in the Investment Operations & Accounting Ecosystem at MassMutual, you will be involved in projects that span Corporate Finance, Enterprise Risk, and Investment Management. This could include initiatives related to mergers and acquisitions, corporate reorganizations, and the development of systems that align with strategic corporate goals. Your role will require you to manage projects with high complexity and risk, making use of advanced project management practices to ensure successful outcomes.

The culture at MassMutual for Project Managers is centered around collaboration, innovation, and professional integrity. The CFPMO team consists of self-starters who thrive on problem-solving, creating a supportive environment that encourages open communication and the sharing of ideas. MassMutual values diverse perspectives and fosters an inclusive atmosphere, dedicating resources to ensure everyone feels valued and empowered to contribute their best work.

In your response, highlight specific projects you've managed, particularly those with many moving parts or high stakes. Discuss how you approached planning, execution, and risk management while ensuring timely delivery and budget adherence. Providing metrics or outcomes can enhance your credibility.

To answer this, share your method for assessing project urgency and importance, such as using a priority matrix. Discuss any tools you use for task management and how you communicate priorities to team members to ensure alignment.

Explain your experience with various project management tools, like MS Project, Smartsheet, or Jira. Discuss your preferences based on usability, features that enhance team collaboration, and how these tools help you track progress and manage deadlines effectively.

Discuss your experience with formal change request processes and how you communicate scope changes with stakeholders. Provide examples illustrating your ability to manage expectations and adjust plans while keeping team members informed and motivated.

Share a concrete example of a risk you identified, how you assessed its potential impact, and the strategies you implemented to mitigate it. Highlight the importance of maintaining a risk register and how proactive communication with stakeholders ensured project success.

Speak about your leadership style, emphasizing communication, empowerment, and fostering a collaborative environment. Discuss how you set clear expectations, encourage team members to provide input, and support their growth through feedback and coaching.

Explain your methods for maintaining regular communication with project sponsors, such as status updates, meetings, and feedback sessions. Highlight the importance of understanding their goals and expectations throughout the project lifecycle.

Discuss your approach to developing initial budgets and monitoring costs throughout the project. Elaborate on using financial forecasting tools, addressing variances, and ensuring you follow the Change Request Process for budget adjustments.

Provide an example that showcases your conflict resolution skills. Discuss your approach to listening, understanding different perspectives, and finding common ground to restore team harmony while keeping the project on track.

Share personal motivations and how MassMutual’s values align with your career goals. Mention aspects of the company's culture, mission, or projects that excite you and express your desire to contribute to impactful initiatives.