Manager - Program Planning, Assessment & Development

University of Wisconsin Stout•Madison, WI

7d•Hybrid

About The Position

The Program Planning, Assessment and Development Manager advances the quality and growth of distance education programs supported by the Office of Online and Professional Learning Resources (OPLR). In collaboration with Universities of Wisconsin campuses, the manager identifies programmatic needs and coordinates OPLR resources and personnel with campus expertise to assess existing programs and plan and develop high-need online learning opportunities. The role oversees program development across the unit in collaboration with the Senior Director for Academic Partnerships and Programming and builds relationships with internal and external stakeholders to shape educational offerings. The manager monitors educational trends, conducts needs analyses and viability assessments, and recommends new programs. In coordination with the Senior Director, the manager assesses existing programs for market relevance, financial viability, student outcomes, and potential improvements. The role works with faculty, industry representatives, and other subject matter experts to develop rigorous and relevant online curricula, coordinate curriculum development and approvals, and manage associated timelines and communications. The manager reports to the Senior Director for Academic Partnerships and Programming. OPLR provides leadership, resources, and services supporting online distance education programs in partnership with Universities of Wisconsin campuses. Its offerings include undergraduate and graduate degrees, certificates, and independent learning courses across correspondence, course sharing, collaborative education, and competency-based education (UW Flexible Option). The position is based at 780 Regent Street in Madison, Wisconsin, with an expected in-office presence one day per week and the option to work remotely on remaining days. Additional office attendance may be requested based on business needs, and telecommuting agreements may change.

Requirements

Bachelor’s degree.
At least four years of experience working in or with higher education institutions, including experience in planning, developing, assessing, implementing, or managing online, continuing education, and/or professional development programs.
Strong entrepreneurial and leadership skills.
Strong customer service and relationship-building skills.
Excellent problem-solving skills.
Exceptional organizational and project management skills.
Strong research and data analysis skills.
In-depth knowledge of higher education best practices, emerging trends, and the competitive market landscape.
Ability to motivate stakeholders and guide teams toward identified goals and outcomes.
Ability to analyze situations, identify problems, and formulate creative solutions.
Ability to adapt quickly to change, work with ambiguity, and learn from a variety of stakeholders and partners.
Ability to communicate complex ideas accessibly, engage stakeholders around a shared vision, and support OPLR and Universities of Wisconsin values.
Ability to foster collaborative relationships, engage internal and external stakeholders, and resolve conflicts toward positive outcomes.

Nice To Haves

Master’s degree.
Experience as higher education faculty or an administrator, such as department chair or associate dean, including experience in a shared governance environment.
Familiarity with federal and state compliance issues and experience with general or specialized accreditors and their expectations for quality distance education programs.
Familiarity with competency-based education and its distinct curricular and regulatory expectations.
Experience developing complex revenue and budget models and managing budgets.

Responsibilities

Serve as OPLR’s recognized lead for program planning, assessment, and development.
Conduct opportunity research with the Senior Director, Office of Academic Affairs, and external vendors to identify prospective programs and support concept proposals, university collaboration, System and accreditor approvals, and implementation project management.
Lead custom research and assessment of existing programs, recommending updates or improvements to promote program viability.
Conduct qualitative research, including focus groups and key informant interviews.
Assess the viability of prospective programs and recommend whether to proceed with development.
Help develop, maintain, and regularly revise comprehensive program assessment and development plans.
Facilitate curriculum development and revision for new and existing programs in alignment with OPLR approaches and timelines.
Serve as a communication liaison for faculty and campus administrators through project completion.
Facilitate launch processes for new and revised programs, including project management and communications with universities, UWSA offices, and OPLR teams; this may include serving as or collaborating with a Program Manager during early stages.
Assist campuses with program approvals by documenting curriculum planning and research, drafting governance and accreditor documents, presenting program and budget details to governance groups, and assisting with data collection.
Assist with developing and monitoring complex budgets in accordance with applicable policies, procedures, and business practices.
Manage, interpret, and maintain compliance with partnership models.
Lead or participate in internal and external teams, projects, and committees related to program planning, assessment, and development.
Provide interim program management support when a Program Manager is not assigned and assist with hiring Program Managers.
Perform other duties assigned by the Senior Director for Academic Partnerships and Programs.
The position may supervise personnel in the future.