Program Manager - Early Career Talent Development

Aston Carter

1d•Onsite

About The Position

This role leads the strategy, design, and execution of early career talent development programs, including internships, co-ops, and new graduate rotational programs. The Program Manager III oversees all aspects of these initiatives, from planning and stakeholder alignment to implementation, measurement, and continuous improvement. The position requires a seasoned professional who combines strong program and project management expertise with a passion for learning and development, early career talent, and cross-functional collaboration.

Requirements

At least 7 years of experience in program management, with a demonstrated ability to lead complex initiatives.
Proven ability to manage complex programs and multiple stakeholders across functions such as Talent Acquisition, HR, and business units.
Strong program management skills, including planning, execution, risk management, and continuous improvement.
Robust project management capabilities, including setting deadlines, assigning responsibilities, and tracking progress.
Experience in learning and development, including designing and implementing training, onboarding, and development programs.
Hands-on experience with HRIS and learning management systems to support program administration and reporting.
Strong stakeholder management skills, with the ability to build relationships and influence without direct authority.
Excellent communication and people skills, including the ability to present information clearly to participants, stakeholders, and leadership.
Analytical mindset with experience using data and analytics to drive decision-making and measure program effectiveness.
Ability to lead and direct the work of others while fostering collaboration and accountability.
Familiarity with a variety of concepts, practices, and procedures related to program management and talent development.

Nice To Haves

Bachelor’s degree in Human Resources, Business Administration, Education, or a related field.
Experience working with early career or university recruiting programs, including internships, co-ops, or rotational programs.
Experience in learning and development with exposure to curriculum design and professional development initiatives.
Strong organizational skills with the ability to manage multiple projects and deadlines simultaneously.
Demonstrated ability to partner effectively with academic institutions and external organizations.
Comfort working with HRIS and learning management systems to support program operations and reporting.
High level of creativity and adaptability, with the ability to design innovative solutions for talent development.
Ability to thrive in dynamic environments that require sound judgment, initiative, and proactive problem-solving.

Responsibilities

Coordinate and complete end-to-end delivery of early career talent development programs, overseeing all aspects from initial concept through successful execution.
Design, launch, and manage early career programs such as internships, co-ops, and new graduate rotational programs that attract, develop, and retain early career talent.
Set clear program deadlines and milestones, assign responsibilities, and monitor progress to ensure timely and high-quality delivery of all program components.
Partner closely with Talent Acquisition, Human Resources, and business leaders to align early career programs with workforce planning needs and broader organizational goals.
Develop comprehensive program curricula, including onboarding experiences, training modules, mentorship structures, and professional development initiatives.
Oversee and optimize learning and development activities related to early career programs, ensuring they are engaging, impactful, and aligned with business needs.
Use data and analytics to monitor program performance, identify trends, and provide insights and recommendations for continuous improvement.
Prepare clear and concise reports and presentations for senior and upper management that summarize program status, outcomes, risks, and opportunities.
Manage program logistics, including timelines, budgets, and coordination with vendors and external partners, ensuring efficient and effective operations.
Serve as a primary point of contact for program participants, internal stakeholders, and external partners such as universities and academic institutions.
Build and maintain strong relationships with academic institutions and other early talent pipelines to support recruitment and program awareness.
Track participant progress throughout the program lifecycle and support their career development and potential conversion into full-time roles.
Foster an inclusive, engaging participant experience that supports diversity, equity, and inclusion goals within early career programs.
Lead and direct the work of others involved in program delivery, providing guidance, feedback, and support to ensure high performance.
Rely on extensive experience and sound judgment to plan and accomplish program goals, applying creativity and a wide degree of latitude in problem-solving.
Perform a variety of program and project management tasks, adapting to changing priorities and managing multiple initiatives simultaneously.
Communicate effectively with stakeholders at all levels, ensuring alignment, transparency, and timely updates on program activities and outcomes.