Program Manager

Walker-Miller Energy•Detroit, MI

About The Position

The Program Manager will play a crucial role in managing and executing Walker-Miller Energy Services' Market Development Initiatives in the State of Michigan. This position is responsible for overseeing program implementation, managing partnerships, and ensuring that all workforce development programs align with the company's mission to empower communities, particularly those from black and brown communities, through access to clean energy careers and small business growth. The ideal candidate will have a strong background in workforce development, experience with energy efficiency programs, and a commitment to driving innovation and economic empowerment in underserved communities. This role requires excellent leadership, project management, and communication skills to effectively manage multiple programs and engage with stakeholders at all levels

Requirements

Action Orientated Execution: Can effectively plan, organize, and execute complex tasks or initiatives. Can develop and implement detailed plans and timelines. Can manage resources and deadlines efficiently.
Collaboration: Works effectively in cross-functional teams. Works collaboratively in times of difficulty, demonstrating resilience and adaptability. Build and nurtures a community of in various forms (team members, entrepreneurs, mentors, investors, customers, and business leaders) who can support each other.
Communication: Effectively conveys complex information and ideas clearly and persuasively to diverse audiences, building rapport and trust. Can effectively explain one's own knowledge and/or technical information to others in ways that are easy to understand.
Data Analysis: Analyzes project data to identify trends and patterns.
Decision Making and Problem Solving: Evaluates multiple alternatives and selects the best course of action based on criteria and judgment. Conducts thorough analysis of complex problems, develops innovative and creative solutions, and implements effective resolutions. Helps others navigate challenges by offering practical, creative, and effective solutions to business problems.
Entrepreneurial Business Development: Assists with initial business planning (e.g., market research, feasibility studies) and offers guidance on basic business operations (e.g., customer acquisition, sales). Seeks new ways to improve offerings and help others achieve success in a competitive marketplace.
Financial Acumen: Creates and maintains basic budgets, tracks income and expenses, and identifies and addresses minor budget discrepancies. Apply financial concepts to relevant work tasks (e.g., how venture capital or grants impact business incubation, or how work costs affect overall profitability).
Industry Domain Knowledge: Understands core industry principles, processes, and domain-specific areas like regulatory compliance. Can identify common industry challenges and opportunities.
Leadership & People Management: Builds rapport with colleagues and team members. Actively participates in team problem-solving and decision-making. Effectively applies conflict resolution techniques. Manages routine employee relations matters independently.
Partnership Development: Fosters collaborative relationships with partners. Manage day-to-day partnership activities. Negotiates and implements partnership agreements. Demonstrates the ability to resolve conflicts and issues.
Program Development: Assists in program planning, budgeting, and data collection using appropriate methods (surveys, assessments, etc.). Creates basic program and training materials without guidance. Assists in developing action plans based on evaluation findings.
Project Management: Effectively manages projects with significant scope and complexity. Leads project teams and oversees project execution. Manages project budgets and resources. Ensures project deliverables are met on time and within budget.
Stakeholder Engagement: Manages stakeholder expectations, resolves conflicts, and consults with stakeholders to address their concerns proactively. Can influence stakeholders and clients to support initiatives.
Strategic Thinking: Can develop and implement comprehensive strategic plans aligned with organizational goals. Demonstrates proficiency in strategic analysis, problem-solving, and decision-making. Can assess strategic performance and make data-driven recommendations.
Technology Skills: Demonstrates proficiency in using technology tools to support daily tasks and complete job responsibilities effectively.
Bachelor’s degree required; equivalent work experience may be considered.
3+ years of Workforce Development, contractor training, Program Management or equivalent experience.
2 + years of direct or indirect leadership required.
Proven leadership abilities in a rapidly changing environment.
Proficiency in financial and project management.
Experience in community development, grassroots organizing, workforce development, and public sector project management.
Sales, marketing, or business development background.
Proven leadership in a fast-paced environment.
Detail-oriented and able to prioritize workload and delegate appropriate work assignments to staff.
Must be flexible to handle a wide variety of tasks and complete work in a timely fashion in a fast-paced environment.
Proficient in Microsoft Office, specifically Word, Excel, Vizio, PowerPoint and Outlook.
Strong data entry skills and experience in entering information in tracking systems/databases such as Salesforce and Power BI.
Ability to communicate effectively, both verbally and in writing with customers, clients, and employees.
Ability to analyze and interpret data and solve practical problems.
Knowledge of mathematical concepts such as fractions percentages, and ratios.
Reliable transportation.

Nice To Haves

Master’s Degree, preferred.
Degree in Community Relations, Marketing, Supply Chain, Logistics, Business Management, or discipline in energy or related field from an accredited University.
Familiarity with Monday.com or similar project management software.
PMP Certification, preferred but not required.
CEM Certification, preferred but not required.
Valid driver’s license.

Responsibilities

Lead, embrace and operate within our core values.
Oversee multiple programs of similar focus within the MDI Client portfolio.
Typically focused on a 1-2 utility or market and a defined geographic or customer segment.
Manages core program elements such as:
Recruitment and onboarding for 2-3 cohorts.
Day-to-day tracking deliverables for their assigned programs.
Coordination with a small number of external partners/vendors (typically fewer than 5).
Ensures reporting accuracy for their specific program(s) in Salesforce/Power BI.
Supports employer engagement but is not primary lead for multi-program strategy.
Responsible for implementing, not redesigning, established program processes.
Manage direct reports and oversee program staff where applicable. This includes interviewing, planning, assigning, completing performance evaluations, coaching, mentoring, and directing work.
Complete and manage quarterly program performance evaluations with staff and clients.
Provide daily leadership to program staff including managing program promotions, communication, marketing requests, and assisting teams to creatively meet the program's goals.
Lead and develop team members based on core values-driven culture that encourages top performance with compassion.
Develop and implement a plan to attract new customers/energy efficiency service providers to meet program objectives.
Develop a comprehensive understanding of the program’s strategic direction regarding energy efficiency and the business activities of its customers.
Develop and oversee the processing of program paperwork through designated tracking systems.
Coordinate with program evaluators to understand evaluation plans and communicate program procedures to staff.
Develop strategic partnerships with industry employers for on-the-job training and placement opportunities for program graduates
Be a member of several working groups that will coordinate the program with other organizations working in the program.
Manage and report KPIs as required to the client, partner, or our company’s management by the requested due date.
Incorporate “best practice” methods of energy efficiency program implementation.
Provide a professional appearance appropriate to represent both Walker-Miller and the client.
Lead and attend relevant presentations promoting energy efficiency programs.
Practice effective project management skills in leading the program.
Manage the utility relationship and serve as an advocate for the client.
Assist with the preparation of monthly invoices and activity reports as required to the client, partner, or Walker-Miller management.
Work directly with the client to supervise, develop, and implement marketing and communications plans to educate customers about energy efficiency and drive participation in energy efficiency programs.
Oversee participants onboarding, setting clear expectations and goals for program engagement and success.
Act as a mentor and advocate for participants, fostering their professional growth and ensuring a supportive program environment.
Build partnerships with community organizations, educational institutions, philanthropic organizations and industry leaders to support participant recruitment, training, placement and funding support.
Collaborate with internal teams, including Operations and HR, to align program objectives with organizational goals.
Collaborate with external agencies and organizations to host workshops for program delivery
Represent Walker-Miller Energy Services at industry events and workforce development forums.
Stay informed on industry developments, workforce trends, and best practices in workforce development.
Incorporate participant and stakeholder feedback to enhance program delivery and outcomes.
Develop strategies to expand the program’s reach and impact in alignment with organizational objectives.
Provide administrative services plan to develop client reporting processes.
Ensure continuous improvement of operations year after year.