University of Iowa Center for Advancement · 20 hours ago
Program Director, Strategic Initiative
Iowa City, IA
Full-time
Hybrid
Lead/Staff, Director/Executive
5+ years expThe University of Iowa Center for Advancement is seeking a Program Director for a high-profile, multi-year initiative. This role involves leading project planning, coordination, and execution while managing diverse stakeholders and ensuring effective communication across teams.
EducationHigher EducationPrimary Education
Responsibilities
Oversee comprehensive project plans, timelines, budgets, and milestones for a multi-year initiative with multiple phases and deliverables
Serve as primary liaison between internal stakeholders and external vendors
Facilitate consistent communication across diverse teams to ensure alignment, resolve conflicts, and maintain momentum toward project goals
Anticipate potential challenges and implement proactive solutions to mitigate risk, ensuring smooth execution under high-pressure conditions
Balance strategic oversight with hands-on tactical execution to keep projects on track and within scope
Develop clear communication strategies, ensuring project updates and deliverables meet the highest standards of professionalism and brand alignment
Negotiate and manage contracts with vendors and partners, ensuring quality, timeliness, and adherence to budget
Track and report on project progress, performance metrics, and outcomes for leadership and key stakeholders
Lead the planning and execution of high-profile events, including developing event timelines, coordinating vendors and internal stakeholders, managing logistics, and ensuring seamless on‑site delivery
Qualification
Required
Bachelor's degree in communications, marketing, public relations, project management, or related field
5+ years of progressive experience managing large-scale, high-visibility projects, preferably in higher education, healthcare, athletics, or nonprofit environments
Demonstrated success coordinating cross-functional teams and managing external vendor relationships
Outstanding interpersonal and written/verbal communication skills, with the ability to engage effectively with diverse audiences
Proven ability to think strategically while executing tactically in fast-paced, high-pressure situations
Proven experience planning and executing events of varying sizes, including timelines, logistics, vendor coordination, and on-site management
Exceptional organizational skills and attention to detail, with the ability to manage multiple priorities and meet tight deadlines
Strong problem-solving skills, resilience, and ability to maintain composure in challenging or politically sensitive situations
Calm under pressure; thrives in high-stakes environments
Diplomatic and collaborative, with strong relationship-building skills
Strategic thinker who also excels in tactical execution
Passionate about bringing people together to achieve a shared vision
Preferred
advanced degree
familiarity with media relations, fundraising and integrated marketing campaigns
Cover letter submission preferred with application
Company
University of Iowa Center for Advancement
We keep alumni connected to the University of Iowa by sharing Iowa's commitment to excellence through engagement and philanthropy.
201-500 employees
Funding
Current Stage
Growth StageLeadership Team
Linda Hartford, PMP, MSP
Vice President & Chief information Officer
Jim Bethea, CFA, CAIA
Chief Investment Officer
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