Overview
Program Manager – Finance Initiatives – Hybrid (Chicago, IL – Local Candidates Only)
Rate Range: $75+
Employment Type: Contract
Position Overview
We are seeking a well-rounded and experienced Program Manager to oversee finance-related initiatives, reporting directly to a Senior Manager. The ideal candidate brings proven experience managing complex cross-functional projects, especially in Fortune 100 environments, with a strong understanding of project intake, execution, and benefit realization. This role operates in a high-matrix environment and may expand beyond finance to support other business areas over time.
Key Responsibilities
Manage the intake, execution, and reporting of multiple finance-related initiatives.
Ensure alignment of all programs with business priorities, goals, and return on investment.
Oversee program scope, issues, risks, critical path activities, and dependencies in collaboration with Finance, IT, and cross-functional teams.
Develop and manage integrated project schedules, budgets, and resource plans.
Track and monitor key milestones, deliverables, and benefits realization.
Provide regular performance reporting to project teams, stakeholders, and executive leadership.
Lead the establishment of governance structures and stakeholder engagement plans.
Assist in the development of business cases as needed.
Coordinate change management, communications, and training initiatives.
Provide support during user acceptance testing (UAT) and IT implementation from a user perspective.
Participate in or lead additional project-related tasks as assigned.
Required Skills & Qualifications
5+ years of project and program management experience, including oversight of cross-functional initiatives exceeding $2M in value.
Background in a Fortune 100 organization or comparable enterprise setting.
Basic understanding of finance and accounting principles.
Demonstrated success managing multiple related projects under a program framework.
Highly organized, with the ability to manage competing priorities in a fast-paced environment.
Excellent verbal and written communication skills.
Strong interpersonal, active listening, and self-awareness capabilities.
Adept at problem-solving and navigating ambiguity.
Strong proficiency in Microsoft Excel, Project, PowerPoint, Outlook, and Word.
Bachelor’s degree required.
Preferred Skills & Certifications
Experience in the aviation industry.
Project Management Professional (PMP) certification.
Lean Six Sigma (Green Belt or higher).
Experience using Smartsheet or similar tools.
Background in process improvement or process management.
Work Schedule & Location
Work Model: Hybrid – Onsite as needed for meetings/workshops
Location: Local candidates only (Chicago area)
Work Hours: Monday – Friday, 9:00 AM – 5:00 PM CST
Additional Requirements
Must be legally authorized to work in the United States without sponsorship
Reliable and punctual attendance is essential
If you are a strategic, communicative, and adaptable program manager with a passion for delivering results in finance-driven initiatives, we encourage you to apply.
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