Senior Technology Strategist

Western Governors University•Salt Lake, UT

About The Position

The Senior Strategist enhances the educational experience for students and stakeholders by leading strategic initiatives to improve existing solutions and processes, fostering collaboration across teams, and driving continuous improvement in program offerings. The role works with academic departments, technology, operations, student services, and senior leaders to develop and execute plans aligned with organizational objectives. It uses data and analytics to guide decisions and evaluate outcomes, and leads change-management efforts to support successful implementation. The role also promotes innovation and best practices across the Program Experience Solutions team and the wider organization. The position requires a bachelor's degree and at least five years of experience in strategic planning, program management, or a related field within higher education or a similar industry. Occasional travel of up to 20% is required, including designated company summits, with additional business travel as needed. This is a full-time, regular position with 40 standard weekly hours.

Requirements

Bachelor's degree in Business Administration, Education, or a related field.
At least 5 years of experience in strategic planning, program management, or a related field within higher education or a similar industry.
Experience leading strategic initiatives and driving positive change within complex organizations.
Experience developing and refining educational programs, courses, and curricula in higher education.
Experience with online learning platforms, learning management systems, and educational technologies used in online and hybrid learning environments.
In-depth understanding of higher education industry trends, challenges, and opportunities.
Strong strategic thinking and problem-solving abilities.
Strong leadership and team management skills.
Proficiency in data analysis and interpretation, including use of relevant software tools.
Advanced project management skills, including planning, execution, evaluation, and management of complex projects.
Effective verbal and written communication skills, including the ability to present complex information clearly and concisely.
Strong interpersonal skills and ability to build collaborative relationships across departments and with external partners.
Familiarity with change-management principles and methodologies.
Ability to adapt to changing priorities and work effectively in a fast-paced environment.
Understanding of accreditation standards, regulatory requirements, and industry best practices related to program development and institutional compliance.
Ability to design and assess curriculum effectiveness, learning outcomes, and student engagement strategies, particularly in a competency-based education model.
Knowledge of adult learning theories and principles, including instructional design methodologies for adult learners in diverse academic settings.
Ability to collaborate with academic departments, faculty, subject matter experts, and instructional designers to develop and deliver educational programs.
Ability to coordinate cross-functional teams, manage project timelines, and align work with departmental goals and objectives.
Ability to use data analysis to inform program development decisions, assess program efficacy, and identify areas for continuous improvement.
Ability to articulate program objectives, outcomes, and value propositions to internal and external stakeholders.
Willingness to explore innovative approaches, incorporate emerging technologies, and adapt to changing trends and student needs in higher education.
Ability to travel occasionally, up to 20%, including attendance at designated company summits.

Nice To Haves

Master's degree in Business Administration, Education, or a related field.
Experience leading cross-functional teams and fostering collaboration across departments.
Experience with change-management methodologies such as ADKAR or Kotter's 8-Step Model.
Familiarity with Lean Six Sigma or other continuous-improvement methodologies.
Experience working in a diverse and inclusive environment and promoting equity and access in education.
Track record of implementing strategic initiatives that produce measurable outcomes and impact.

Responsibilities

Identify areas for improvement in existing solutions and processes related to program experience.
Develop strategic plans to address gaps and improve effectiveness.
Analyze current solutions and processes to identify inefficiencies and opportunities for optimization.
Design strategies aligned with organizational goals and priorities.
Develop actionable plans and initiatives with clear goals, timelines, and accountability measures.
Collaborate with academic departments, technology, operations, student services, and other cross-functional teams to implement initiatives.
Use data and analytics to inform decisions and measure the impact of initiatives on program experience.
Lead change-management efforts, including stakeholder engagement, communication, and training.
Promote continuous improvement, innovation, and best practices within the Program Experience Solutions team and across the organization.
Lead strategic plans and projects to enhance program experience and achieve organizational objectives.
Work with senior leaders across partner teams to align priorities, share best practices, and drive collective success.
Foster collaboration and alignment across partner teams.
Perform other job-related duties as assigned.