Program Manager

About the role

As a , you will play a pivotal role in the development and execution of innovative programs that bridge the gap between academia and industry. Your responsibilities will encompass overseeing project lifecycles, managing stakeholder relationships, and ensuring that initiatives align with Mitacs' strategic objectives. This position is ideal for individuals who thrive in dynamic environments and are passionate about fostering collaboration between researchers and businesses.

Key facts

What you'll do

• Lead the planning, implementation, and evaluation of various programs aimed at enhancing collaboration between academic institutions and industry partners.
• Develop and maintain strong relationships with stakeholders, including universities, businesses, and government agencies, to facilitate program success.
• Monitor project progress and ensure that objectives are met within established timelines and budgets, adjusting strategies as necessary.
• Conduct regular assessments of program effectiveness, utilizing data-driven insights to refine processes and improve outcomes.
• Collaborate with cross-functional teams to design and deliver training sessions, workshops, and seminars that promote program awareness and engagement.
• Prepare comprehensive reports and presentations for senior management and stakeholders, highlighting program achievements and areas for improvement.
• Act as a liaison between internal teams and external partners, ensuring clear communication and alignment on project goals and expectations.
• Stay informed about industry trends and best practices to continuously enhance program offerings and maintain Mitacs' competitive edge.
• Facilitate conflict resolution and problem-solving among team members and stakeholders to ensure smooth project execution.
• Manage program budgets, ensuring effective allocation of resources and adherence to financial guidelines.
• Support the recruitment and onboarding of new team members, fostering a collaborative and inclusive work environment.
• Participate in strategic planning sessions to identify new opportunities for program development and expansion.

Requirements

• Bachelor's degree in a relevant field; a Master's degree is preferred.
• Minimum of 5 years of experience in program management or a related area, preferably within an academic or research environment.
• Proven track record of successfully managing multiple projects simultaneously, with strong organizational skills.
• Excellent interpersonal and communication skills, with the ability to engage and influence a diverse range of stakeholders.
• Strong analytical and problem-solving abilities, with a focus on data-driven decision-making.
• Familiarity with project management tools and methodologies, such as Agile or Waterfall.
• Ability to work independently and as part of a team, demonstrating flexibility and adaptability in a fast-paced setting.
• Proficiency in Microsoft Office Suite and project management software.
• Knowledge of funding mechanisms and grant writing is an asset.

Nice to have

• Experience working in a non-profit or public sector organization.
• Familiarity with the Canadian innovation ecosystem and government funding programs.
• Previous experience in a role that required stakeholder engagement and relationship management.
• Bilingual proficiency in English and French is an advantage.
• Certification in project management (e.g., PMP, PRINCE2) would be beneficial.

Skills & tools

• Strong leadership and team management capabilities.
• Excellent written and verbal communication skills.
• Proficient in data analysis and reporting tools.
• Familiarity with CRM systems and collaboration platforms.
• Ability to navigate complex organizational structures and foster collaboration.
• Strong negotiation and conflict resolution skills.

Practical notes

• The specific location of the position is currently unspecified, but candidates should be open to remote work or relocation as required.
• This role may involve occasional travel to various locations for meetings, workshops, and events.
• Applicants should be prepared to provide references and undergo a background check as part of the hiring process.
• The salary for this position will be competitive and based on the applicant's experience and qualifications.
• Interested candidates can apply through the Mitacs career portal at the provided URL.

In this role, you will have the opportunity to make a significant impact on the Canadian innovation landscape by fostering collaboration between academia and industry. If you are a proactive and results-oriented individual with a passion for driving change, we encourage you to apply and join our dedicated team at Mitacs.