Senior Program Manager - job 3 of 3

The Senior Program Manager at Visa is primarily responsible for the end-to-end planning and execution of projects within the Risk and Identity Solutions (RaIS) team. This includes overseeing requirement definitions, managing technical specifications, facilitating scrum ceremonies, and ensuring communication between stakeholders. The role also focuses on maximizing project ROI by engaging with product owners and ensuring that Agile methodologies are effectively implemented.

To qualify for the Senior Program Manager role at Visa, candidates should have over 12 years of experience in the technology sector, with substantial experience as a Software Development Engineer or Test Automation Engineer. Knowledge of Agile principles, project management tools like Jira, and a deep understanding of the software development lifecycle are essential. Additionally, strong communication, prioritization, and decision-making skills are crucial for success in this role.

The work environment for a Senior Program Manager at Visa is fast-paced and collaborative, emphasizing a culture of teamwork and open communication. This hybrid position allows for flexibility, with days in the office determined by your Hiring Manager. You will engage with diverse teams and drive technological initiatives, all while contributing to a mission-focused organization that values innovation in payment solutions.

The Senior Program Manager at Visa will lead various projects related to machine learning and AI model deployment for risk management services. This includes tasks like establishing technical visions, participating in solution reviews, coaching teams in Agile practices, and ensuring that the projects are aligned with the overall product strategy and goals of the Risk and Identity Solutions team.

For a Senior Program Manager at Visa, a solid grasp of project management methodologies, particularly Agile, is crucial. Skills in communication, negotiation, and analytical thinking are also vital. Additionally, technical acumen, including programming knowledge and experience with infrastructure management, can significantly enhance a candidate’s suitability for the role, allowing for better collaboration with development teams.

When prioritizing tasks under pressure, as a Senior Program Manager, I utilize a methods-oriented approach. I analyze the impact of each task on project goals, engage with team members to gauge their workflow, and use tools like Jira to visualize priorities. Effective communication with stakeholders helps ensure alignment on the critical tasks that need immediate attention.

In my previous role, I managed a project that involved the deployment of a new ML model within a tight timeline. The main challenge was coordinating between technical teams and project stakeholders. I ensured regular communication through sprint planning meetings and used feedback to iterate on our processes, ultimately leading to a successful delivery on time.

Handling conflicts within the team requires active listening and open communication. I encourage a culture where team members feel comfortable expressing their concerns. When conflicts arise, I facilitate discussions to understand different perspectives and work collaboratively towards a solution, ensuring that everyone feels heard and valued.

I have extensive experience implementing Agile methodologies throughout my career. I have led multiple Agile teams, focusing on Scrum practices like sprint planning, backlog grooming, and retrospectives. My approach emphasizes continuous improvement and adapting our processes based on retrospectives to optimize team performance.

Success metrics for my projects include both qualitative and quantitative indicators. I set measurable goals at the outset and track progress using tools like Jira. Feedback from stakeholders and team members also plays a crucial role, along with the long-term impacts such as ROI and user satisfaction.

To keep stakeholders informed, I employ a combination of regular updates through email, presentation meetings, and project tracking dashboards. I tailor the information based on the audience, focusing on highlights and key metrics to ensure relevance. Transparency is key, so I make sure any potential risks or issues are communicated proactively.

In a hybrid work environment, I foster collaboration by utilizing technology and encouraging proactive communication. Regular video calls, collaborative documents, and shared project tools help maintain engagement. I also schedule in-office days strategically to maximize team interaction and build relationships, ensuring everyone feels included.

In a previous project, we faced an unexpected risk when a key team member resigned. To mitigate the risk, I quickly reassessed task assignments, redistributed responsibilities, and reached out to management for temporary resources. Effective communication helped maintain momentum, and we met our deadline despite this challenge.

My approach to coaching team members on Agile practices is hands-on and supportive. I conduct workshops to explain key concepts and principles, and I encourage team members to apply these practices in their daily work. Ongoing one-on-one check-ins allow me to provide personalized support and address any challenges they may face.

Balancing strategic planning and tactical execution requires clarity of vision and flexibility. I ensure that every tactical decision aligns with our overall strategy, while remaining adaptable to changing circumstances. Regular reviews help keep the team focused on strategic goals while addressing immediate execution needs effectively.