Associate Director - Technical Program Manager - job 1 of 2

The Associate Director - Technical Program Manager at Nagarro drives end-to-end technical program management across multiple cross-functional programs, overseeing everything from project conception to delivery. This role involves collaborating with various teams, including engineering, business, and design, to effectively manage project scope, timelines, and risks, ensuring successful digital transformation initiatives.

To be considered for the Associate Director - Technical Program Manager position at Nagarro, candidates must possess at least 14 years of work experience or 3-5 years in a similar delivery lead role. Additionally, expertise in deploying technical solutions using Agile methodologies, SAFe, and a deep understanding of software development lifecycle (SDLC) models, coupled with strong project delivery skills, are essential.

Candidates applying for the Associate Director - Technical Program Manager role at Nagarro will stand out with proven experience in managing cross-functional teams, deep technical expertise, and superior communication skills. Familiarity with tools like Azure Pipeline Management and the ability to effectively mentor Scrum Masters and lead complex transformation programs are highly valued.

Nagarro promotes a dynamic and non-hierarchical work culture that fosters collaboration and innovation. As an Associate Director - Technical Program Manager, you will work with diverse teams globally, encouraging an environment where creativity thrives and employees are supported in driving their projects forward.

As an Associate Director - Technical Program Manager at Nagarro, you play a crucial role in accelerating clients' digital transformation initiatives. Your hands-on approach and leadership over Scrum Masters ensure effective program execution, identify challenges, and propose innovative solutions that align technological capabilities with business objectives.

To manage project scope and timelines effectively, begin by clearly defining project objectives and requirements with stakeholders. Utilize Agile methodologies to break projects into manageable sprints, allowing for regular assessment and adjustment of timelines. Regular check-ins with team members and transparent communication with leadership are key to staying on track and making necessary adjustments.

In my previous roles, I have successfully implemented Agile methodologies, specifically Scrum and Kanban, to enhance project delivery. I prioritize regular sprint planning meetings, daily stand-ups, and retrospectives to ensure continuous improvement. My hands-on experience drives teams to focus on delivering value incrementally while maintaining high standards.

When identifying risks in a technical program, I consider factors such as project complexity, dependencies between cross-functional teams, resource availability, and external dependencies. Conducting thorough risk assessments at the project's outset, continuously monitoring progress, and engaging stakeholders in open discussions helps to proactively identify and mitigate potential risks.

Keeping teams motivated during long projects starts with fostering an open environment that encourages communication and collaboration. Recognizing individual contributions, celebrating milestones, and providing opportunities for team members to take ownership of specific tasks can significantly enhance their engagement. Regular feedback and professional development discussions also help maintain motivation.

Leading a team of Scrum Masters involves offering guidance, mentoring, and fostering an environment of collaboration. I emphasize the importance of understanding Agile principles and best practices while encouraging Scrum Masters to share their experiences and insights. Providing tools and resources that support their growth, as well as conducting regular knowledge-sharing sessions, are essential to building a high-performing team.

Communication is vital in my project management style. I prioritize transparent, frequent updates with both the project team and stakeholders to ensure everyone is aligned. Utilizing various communication channels, like project management tools and regular touchpoints, facilitates sharing progress, addressing challenges early, and ensuring that all parties involved are informed and engaged.

When facing conflicts within a project team, I proactively address the issue by fostering open dialogue among those involved. I encourage team members to voice their concerns in a constructive manner and facilitate discussions that seek common ground. By focusing on the shared goal and emphasizing collaboration, we can turn conflicts into opportunities for growth and learning.

I have extensive experience working in remote teams, where I have learned the importance of establishing clear communication protocols and setting expectations. Utilizing project management tools helps streamline collaboration and maintain visibility on task progress. Regular virtual check-ins and team-building activities can bridge the distance, enabling strong team relationships regardless of physical location.

My approach to mentoring junior team members involves setting clear expectations, providing constructive feedback, and encouraging their involvement in decision-making processes. I aim to create a safe learning environment where they can ask questions, explore new ideas, and develop their skills. Holding regular one-on-one meetings helps me support their professional development and address their career goals.

I measure project success using a combination of metrics including on-time delivery, scope adherence, stakeholder satisfaction, and overall impact on business objectives. Regularly reviewing these metrics helps to identify areas of improvement and make data-driven decisions throughout the project's lifecycle, ensuring that we continuously strive for excellence.