Program Manager

Job Description

Role Overview

The Program Manager plays a critical leadership role in supporting cross-functional initiatives across multiple therapeutic areas, specifically within Early Research & Strategy (EaRS), Rare Syndromes, and Immunology. This individual partners closely with Project Sponsors and serves as a key member of the project core team.

They are responsible for defining and delivering program goals and strategies in alignment with organizational processes and long-term vision. This includes ensuring that sub-projects are well-coordinated, timelines and resources are aligned, and that governance bodies and stakeholders are equipped to make timely, informed decisions.

The role demands strong communication and stakeholder management skills to engage diverse global teams, including external partners. A structured communications plan and an inclusive leadership approach are essential to managing culture and collaboration across functions.

Key Responsibilities

Program Strategy & Framing

• Define clear and measurable program goals and objectives, based on project charters and strategic inputs from leadership.
• Align program scope with broader strategic priorities, ensuring structured planning and execution across all project phases.

Program Planning

• Develop a program baseline including resource allocation, timelines, scope definition, and a comprehensive work breakdown structure.
• Contribute to the creation of robust business cases, integrating SMART goals and long-term value assessment.

Budget & Resource Management

• Collaborate with Finance and functional teams to build and manage program budgets.
• Monitor resourcing needs and maintain an updated resource management plan.
• Apply standardized project management processes, including planning updates, governance preparation, and data reporting tools.

Execution & Delivery

• Lead execution of program activities, oversee sub-projects, and ensure alignment with lifecycle milestones and governance checkpoints.
• Proactively manage risks, issues, and opportunities, escalating as necessary.

Performance Monitoring

• Define and track key performance indicators (KPIs) and quality measures.
• Conduct project reviews and drive continuous improvement through feedback and transition planning.

Communication & Leadership

• Develop and manage program communication strategies, including internal and external stakeholder engagement.
• Foster a safe, collaborative environment and act as a delegate for project sponsors or functional leads when needed.

Learning & Best Practices

• Contribute to decision-making frameworks that support timely, unbiased, and quality choices.
• Share program learnings, mentor peers, and drive continuous improvement through structured knowledge exchange.

Knowledge & Application

• Leverage expertise in pharma, biotech, or medical device industries to inform program planning and execution.
• Support the organization by applying both industry-specific and function-specific knowledge (e.g., research, quality, commercial).

Qualifications & Experience

• Experience: 3–5 years of program or project management experience in the pharmaceutical, biotechnology, or medical device industry.
• Therapeutic Area Knowledge: Prior experience supporting programs in Rare Syndromes, Immunology, or Early Research & Strategy (EaRS) is highly desirable.
• Skills:
• Proficiency in project and program management methodologies.
• Strong organizational, communication, and stakeholder engagement skills.
• Ability to lead cross-functional teams in a matrixed, global environment.
• Familiarity with relevant tools (e.g., SharePoint, SAP, project trackers).