Program Director, Strategic Initiative

University of Iowa Center for Advancement • Iowa City, IA

6d • Hybrid

About The Position

The Program Director, Strategic Initiative will lead the planning, coordination, and execution of a high-profile, multi-year, university-wide initiative involving diverse internal and external stakeholders. This is a fixed-term appointment through May 2028 , established to support the planning and execution of a major, multi-year university initiative. The role requires exceptional organizational skills, the ability to navigate complex environments, and a proven track record managing large, high-stakes projects. The successful candidate will serve as the central point of coordination across multiple divisions while ensuring seamless collaboration with external vendors and partners. This position will report to the Assistant Vice President, Donor Engagement. This position is eligible for hybrid work (telecommuting) which includes working on-site at our office in Iowa City at least 3 days per week. Cover letter submission preferred with application

Requirements

• Bachelor’s degree in communications, marketing, public relations, project management, or related field; advanced degree preferred.
• 5+ years of progressive experience managing large-scale, high-visibility projects, preferably in higher education, healthcare, athletics, or nonprofit environments.
• Demonstrated success coordinating cross-functional teams and managing external vendor relationships.
• Outstanding interpersonal and written/verbal communication skills, with the ability to engage effectively with diverse audiences.
• Proven ability to think strategically while executing tactically in fast-paced, high-pressure situations.
• Proven experience planning and executing events of varying sizes, including timelines, logistics, vendor coordination, and on‑site management.
• Exceptional organizational skills and attention to detail, with the ability to manage multiple priorities and meet tight deadlines.
• Strong problem-solving skills, resilience, and ability to maintain composure in challenging or politically sensitive situations.

Nice To Haves

• Familiarity with media relations, fundraising and integrated marketing campaigns preferred.
• Calm under pressure; thrives in high-stakes environments.
• Diplomatic and collaborative, with strong relationship-building skills.
• Strategic thinker who also excels in tactical execution.
• Passionate about bringing people together to achieve a shared vision.

Responsibilities

• Oversee comprehensive project plans, timelines, budgets, and milestones for a multi-year initiative with multiple phases and deliverables.
• Serve as primary liaison between internal stakeholders and external vendors.
• Facilitate consistent communication across diverse teams to ensure alignment, resolve conflicts, and maintain momentum toward project goals.
• Anticipate potential challenges and implement proactive solutions to mitigate risk, ensuring smooth execution under high-pressure conditions.
• Balance strategic oversight with hands-on tactical execution to keep projects on track and within scope.
• Develop clear communication strategies, ensuring project updates and deliverables meet the highest standards of professionalism and brand alignment.
• Negotiate and manage contracts with vendors and partners, ensuring quality, timeliness, and adherence to budget.
• T rack and report on project progress, performance metrics, and outcomes for leadership and key stakeholders.
• Lead the planning and execution of high-profile events, including developing event timelines, coordinating vendors and internal stakeholders, managing logistics, and ensuring seamless on‑site delivery.

What This Job Offers

• Job Type: Full-time
• Career Level: Director