Department Chair (Lead Academic Program Manager) - Data & AI Programs
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
- bonuses
- 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
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What This Job Offers
Job Type
Full-time
Career Level
Manager
