Program Manager-Data and IT - job 2 of 4

The Program Manager in Data & IT at Uncommon Schools plays a vital role in leading Agile project planning and execution while ensuring alignment with our mission to provide quality education. You will define project scope, organize Agile events, and manage communication with stakeholders to prioritize project deliverables. Additionally, you'll motivate teams, support the Product Owner, and continually improve project management processes, making your presence essential in our organizational growth.

To qualify for the Program Manager position at Uncommon Schools, candidates should possess a Bachelor's Degree in a relevant field, along with certifications such as Scrum Master or PMI-ACP. A solid 5+ years of related experience, particularly in Agile development, and familiarity with project management tools like Monday.com or Asana are essential. Experience in nonprofit or educational environments is a plus to contribute effectively to our mission.

As a Program Manager at Uncommon Schools, you'll play a crucial role in team development by mentoring staff, helping them to improve their skills and remove roadblocks that hinder their progress. You’ll hold teams accountable for their commitments, fostering a collaborative environment that encourages high-quality output while ensuring that workloads remain manageable and sustainable.

The work environment for the Program Manager role at Uncommon Schools is dynamic and collaborative, set in the heart of New York's Financial District. We encourage open dialogue and respect, promoting a culture that values diverse perspectives reflective of our student communities. You will thrive in an atmosphere focused on continuous improvement, while working alongside committed professionals who share a passion for closing the college completion gap.

Uncommon Schools provides a competitive benefits package for the Program Manager position, including 19 days of paid time off, comprehensive health, dental, and vision insurance, a 403(b) retirement plan with employer matching, and generous parental leave. Additionally, they prioritize mental health with counseling support programs and wellness benefits, ensuring staff members have the resources needed to thrive personally and professionally.

When responding, emphasize relevant projects where you've implemented Agile practices, detailing your role and the specific methodologies used. It's beneficial to mention outcomes such as improvements in team efficiency or project delivery timeframes, and demonstrate your understanding of Agile principles and how they've shaped your project management approach.

Provide examples of tools and techniques you use to prioritize tasks effectively, such as Kanban boards or backlog grooming practices. Discuss how you assess urgency and importance, including strategies for communicating priorities to your team and stakeholders, ensuring transparency in deadlines and workflow.

When answering, focus on a specific challenge and the strategies you employed to overcome it. Highlight your problem-solving skills and the importance of team collaboration. Also, discuss the outcomes and what you learned from the experience, reinforcing your ability to navigate difficulties in a project management role.

Talk about your approach to fostering an inclusive team culture where each member feels valued. Mention techniques such as regular check-ins, feedback sessions, and recognizing achievements. Highlight how you assign responsibilities to match individual strengths, ensuring everyone is motivated and engaged in their work.

Discuss the importance of stakeholder communication and your strategies for maintaining engagement throughout a project's lifecycle. Give examples of how you've facilitated effective updates, gathered input, and addressed concerns, showcasing your ability to manage expectations and build strong relationships.

Provide specific examples of how you've used project management tools to streamline your workflow or enhance team collaboration. Discuss features you find particularly useful and how they contribute to your project's success. This demonstrates your familiarity with the tools and your skills in managing project processes effectively.

Explain your criteria for project success, which could include meeting deadlines, staying within budget, and achieving stakeholder satisfaction. Discuss the methods you use for post-project reviews, such as feedback sessions or metrics tracking, emphasizing your commitment to continuous improvement in project management.

Share a specific example where you've identified an inefficiency and the steps you took to implement improvements. Highlight the positive results of your actions, such as reduced timeframes or enhanced team productivity, showcasing your proactive approach and commitment to best practices in project management.

Highlight your commitment to open communication practices. Discuss tools you leverage for seamless communication, such as chat or video conferencing platforms, and the importance of regularly scheduled meetings. Explain how fostering an environment where team members can share ideas and feedback is key to maintaining collaboration and transparency.

When preparing your answer, share your passion for education and commitment to community service. Discuss Uncommon Schools' mission and values that resonate with you and how you see your skills and experience aligning with their objectives. This shows your genuine interest and willingness to contribute meaningfully to their goals.