Program Manager

Job Description:

The Program Manager of the Hybrid Cyber Program serves as the entrepreneurial leader responsible for developing, implementing, and growing the innovative partnership between Champlain College and NuHarbor Security. This dynamic role will bridge academia and industry to create a cutting-edge hybrid degree program in Cybersecurity that meets evolving workforce needs.

The Program Manager will build and maintain strategic relationships, drive program development, oversee operational aspects, and ensure the program's success through student recruitment, curriculum enhancement, and partnership expansion.

This position requires an innovative mindset and the ability to navigate both academic and industry environments to create a premier cybersecurity talent pipeline for Vermont's economy and beyond. Reports to the Dean of Information Technology & Sciences (ITS) at Champlain College.

Key Responsibilities:

Program Development & Management

• Lead the development, launch, and growth of new programs (e.g., VT Cyber Start, degree programs), ensuring curriculum meets both academic standards and industry needs
• Establish program goals, metrics, and timelines in collaboration with stakeholders from both organizations
• Design and implement innovative program components that leverage strengths of academic and industry partners
• Create and manage program budget, resources, and operational processes

Partnership & Stakeholder Management

• Serve as the primary liaison between Champlain College and NuHarbor Security, facilitating communication and collaboration
• Develop additional strategic partnerships with industry, government, and non-profit organizations
• Manage all aspects of partnership agreements including MOUs, financial arrangements, and contractual obligations
• Oversee regular partnership meetings and ensure stakeholder alignment on program vision

Student Success, Recruitment & Program Growth

• Drive student recruitment efforts in collaboration with Champlain College Admissions and NuHarbor Security
• Develop student success strategies including mentorship opportunities, internships, and career pathways
• Identify emerging trends in cybersecurity education to keep the program cutting-edge
• Create and implement marketing strategies to increase program visibility and reputation
• Create opportunities for students to engage with industry professionals throughout their academic journey
• Develop proposals for program expansion, new certifications, and additional degree pathways

Operational Excellence

• Establish efficient workflows between academic and industry partners for seamless program delivery
• Track student outcomes and use data to continuously improve program effectiveness
• Secure external funding through grants, partnerships, and other revenue streams
• Ensure compliance with academic accreditation requirements and industry certification standards
• Develop and maintain program documentation, policies, and procedures
• Coordinate facilities, technology, and resources needed for program delivery

Key Capabilities:

• Interpersonal Savvy: Exceptional ability to relate to and communicate with diverse stakeholders across academic and industry settings
• Ensures Accountability: Takes responsibility for meeting commitments and holds self and others accountable for results
• Action Oriented: Self-starter who makes things happen, enjoys working hard, and is full of energy for challenging projects
• Manages Ambiguity: Comfortable functioning effectively in complex, rapidly changing environments with unclear situations
• Collaborates: Builds partnerships and works with others across organizational boundaries to achieve common goals
• Business Insight: Applies understanding of business and industry trends to enhance program relevance and impact
• Manages Conflict and Complexity: Skillfully addresses disagreements and navigates complex institutional relationships
• Builds Networks: Establishes and maintains strategic relationships that further program goals and create opportunities
• Plans and Aligns: Develops detailed action plans and aligns resources for effective program implementation
• Instills Trust: Seen as direct, truthful, and transparent; keeps confidences and admits mistakes
• Entrepreneurial Mindset: Ability to identify opportunities, take calculated risks, and drive innovation
• Strategic Vision: Capacity to develop and implement long-term strategies that align with both academic and industry goals
• Data-Driven Decision Making: Uses metrics and analytics to guide program development and improvement

Requirements:

Minimum Qualifications:

• Bachelor's Degree and 8+ years of experience in corporate training, business-education partnerships, and/or university extended education
• Demonstrated experience building and managing strategic partnerships
• Strong project management background with ability to manage multiple priorities
• Experience with program development, student recruitment, or workforce development
• Excellent communication and presentation skills
• Proficiency with project management tools, data analysis, and standard business software

Preferred Qualifications:

• Master's degree in education, business, or related field
• 10 years work experience in higher education, K12 and/or the private sector
• Experience in program management, preferably in higher education or cybersecurity
• Background in cybersecurity or information technology
• Proven track record of entrepreneurial leadership and innovation
• Grant writing or fundraising experience
• Knowledge of higher education accreditation processes and industry certification requirements

Additional Information:

Work Arrangement:

• Full-time (37.5 hours/week) hybrid position with primary office at Champlain College in Burlington, VT and regular presence at NuHarbor Security in Burlington, VT or Colchester, VT
• Standard business hours (Monday-Friday, 8:30am-5:00pm ET) with flexibility for program needs
• 15-25% travel required for partner engagement, recruitment activities, and industry events
• For Hybrid component: Must maintain a dedicated workspace supporting productive work and virtual collaboration

The successful completion of a criminal background check is required as a condition of employment.

Champlain College does not discriminate on the basis of race, creed, color, national origin, place of birth, ancestry, religion, age, sexual orientation, sex, gender identity, veteran or military service status, HIV -positive status, qualified disability, or on the basis of any other status protected by law, and does not discriminate in the administration of its education and admission policies, scholarship and loan programs, employment practices or co-curricular and other College-administered programs. Champlain College will make reasonable accommodations for otherwise qualified students, applicants for admission or employment, or employees. Please contact the People Center at with questions concerning the hiring process or future employment at Champlain College, or if auxiliary aids or services are needed to apply for employment at Champlain College.

Champlain College is committed to fostering an inclusive and welcoming community. We believe that bringing together individuals with different backgrounds, perspectives, and experiences enriches education and strengthens our community. At Champlain, all members are valued as individuals and respected for their unique contributions.

Application Instructions:

To apply, please follow the link below and submit the following application materials:

• Resume/CV
• Cover Letter addressing the desired qualifications and how your experiences contribute to the academic excellence and inclusive community at Champlain College.

The College seeks candidates who can enhance its mission through their work, life experiences, service, teaching, or research. Please include specific examples of how you would contribute to these efforts in your Cover Letter.

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