Department Chair (Lead Academic Program Manager) - Data & AI Programs

Western Governors University•Salt Lake, UT

About The Position

WGU’s Data & AI programs prepare learners for careers in high-demand fields including data analytics, data science, and data engineering in an increasingly AI-driven workforce. As Lead Academic Program Manager, you will lead a portfolio of programs (e.g., BS Data Analytics, MS Data Analytics, and future Data Science and Data Engineering offerings) from concept through continuous improvement. You will play a key role in shaping a future-ready Data & AI program portfolio aligned to workforce needs and learner success. This is a high-ownership individual contributor role requiring both strategic vision and execution. You will work across a matrixed organization—partnering with Program Development, Faculty, Mentors, Marketing, Skills, and external stakeholders—to deliver programs that drive strong student outcomes and workforce relevance.

Requirements

Master’s degree in Data Analytics, Data Science, Computer Science, Statistics, or related field ( In lieu of a master’s degree, a bachelor’s degree plus seven years of directly relevant experience will be considered. )
4+ years of experience in program management, product management, educational program development, or a related field
Strategic thinking with strong execution focus
Data-driven decision-making and analytical skills
Ability to lead through influence in a matrixed organization
Strong communication skills across diverse audiences
Ability to balance innovation with operational effectiveness

Nice To Haves

Experience in data analytics, business intelligence, data science, or data engineering
Familiarity with tools such as Python, SQL, Power BI/Tableau, or cloud data platforms
Experience with workforce-aligned curriculum or skills-based education
Experience in online or competency-based education
Exposure to or familiarity with AI/ML concepts, AI-enabled analytics tools, or data applications supporting AI systems

Responsibilities

Program Strategy: Conduct market research and workforce analysis to define program and portfolio vision, positioning, and roadmap across Data & AI programs, including emerging trends in AI-enabled analytics and data-driven decision-making.
Program Development: Lead cross-functional collaboration to design and refine curriculum aligned to skills, competencies, and employer needs, including integration of modern data practices and AI-aware workflows that reflect evolving industry standards.
Student Success & Performance: Monitor key metrics (e.g., course completion, progression, retention) and identify opportunities to improve student outcomes. Ensure learners are prepared to work effectively in modern data environments that increasingly incorporate AI tools and technologies.
Stakeholder Alignment: Align cross-functional teams on priorities, timelines, and execution in a complex, matrixed environment.
Industry Alignment: Engage with advisory boards and partners to ensure programs remain relevant; support integration of industry tools, certifications, and emerging practices, including AI-enabled data platforms and workflows.

Benefits

medical, dental, vision, telehealth and mental healthcare
health savings account and flexible spending account
basic and voluntary life insurance
disability coverage
accident, critical illness and hospital indemnity supplemental coverages
legal and identity theft coverage
retirement savings plan
wellbeing program
discounted WGU tuition
flexible paid time off for rest and relaxation with no need for accrual, flexible paid sick time with no need for accrual, 11 paid holidays, and other paid leaves, including up to 12 weeks of parental leave