Program Development Manager

This brand new company in The Early Childhood Education Space is one of 42 Companies owned by Sterling Partners; an investment group based out of Chicago and Baltimore. Our mission is to support children ages 2-5 in a FUN, activity-based group setting to build early literacy and pre-reading skills essential for future success through a National network of Independent Licensees.  The Licensees will be offered a solid home-based income opportunity doing something that really makes a difference.

The Program Development Manager will be a key team member in building a brand that will become a household name in early childhood development.

Position Summary:

The Program Development Manager will work in a small entrepreneurial team that is designing, piloting, and launching a new early childhood education service. The principal focus for the Program Development Manager is managing the planning and execution of all the operational aspects including building relationships and tracking timelines for all inter-related elements. They will be required to work as the only dedicated resource on some projects or tasks, as well as a contributing member of a team.  Initiatives may include sourcing marketing and curriculum materials, developing program documentation and creating work flow processes for enrollments.  In addition, this individual will ultimately directly support our external stakeholders who are delivering the service in the field.

Job Accountabilities
·        Own and manage a project management tool and give weekly updates to President on your performance versus weekly, monthly and quarterly goals
·        Identify and collaborate successfully with internal experts, including curriculum development and product sourcing, as well as with external consultants
·        Manage all relationships to exceed project goals and timelines
·        Raise and work through project issues. Manage risks and prioritize for escalation and resolution.
·        Maintain project plan documentation to assure that all moving parts are aligned to meet deadlines.
·        Continually review project specifications to ensure business requirements are met.

Requirements:

·        Bachelors Degree Business, Marketing or a related degree.  
·        Minimum of 5-7 years of business, project management, implementation and client/customer facing experience.
·        Demonstrated track record of success with project management.
·        A genuine passion for developing something new proven by successful work experience in a start-up environment.
·        Proven experience in resource, cost and scope management.
·        Excellent analytical and problem solving skills.
·        Ability to multi-task with an emphasis on a strong attention to detail, organization and time management skills.
·        Effective written and oral communication skills.
·        Proficiency in Word, Excel, PowerPoint and MS Project.
·        Start-up experience preferred.