Executive Director of Program Management

Candescent is the largest non-core digital banking provider. We bring together the transformative technologies that power and connect account opening, digital banking and branch solutions for banks and credit unions of all sizes on any core. Our Candescent solutions power the top three U.S. mobile banking apps and are trusted by banks and credit unions of all sizes.

We offer an extensive portfolio of industry-leading products and services with an extensible ecosystem of out-of-the-box and integrated partner solutions. In addition, our API-first architecture and developer tools enable financial institutions to optimize and expand upon their existing capabilities by seamlessly integrating custom-built or third-party solutions. And our connected in-person, remote and digital experiences reinvent customer service across all channels.

Self-service configuration and marketing tools give financial institutions greater control of their branding, targeted messaging and overall user experience. And data-driven analytics and reporting tools provide valuable insights to help drive continued growth and profitability. From conversions and implementations to custom development and customer care, our clients get expert, end-to-end support at every step.

Role Overview: 

The Executive Director of Program Management will play a pivotal leadership role in directing and driving internal programs that are vital to solving problems that prevent Client Delivery & Professional Services from smoothly delivering quality solutions to clients at scale, but require collaboration across Candescent to resolve.  This will require leading cross-functional teams – and partnering with senior leaders across Candescent – to formulate and execute programs to address challenges impacting multiple delivery projects and clients.   This leader will mainly focus internally on Candescent people, processes, and tools, but may occasionally engage with clients in support of Delivery teams, to ensure that initiatives have intended impacts.  Success requires pulling leaders and teams together to focus on chronic challenges, formulating strategies and executing programs to address them, clearly specifying needs and requirements, driving teams to execute, and clearly measuring and reporting results and impacts.

The ideal candidate will be an organized, experienced, proactive professional, capable of managing their workload, skilled at leading and motivating high-performance teams, and coordinating with others and prioritizing tasks in a fast-paced start-up style / private equity environment.

Key Responsibilities:

• Formulate and Drive Programs: Develop and implement strategic programs aimed at solving recurring problems that impact client delivery. Ensure these programs align with the company's overall goals and objectives.
• Leadership and Direction: Provide clear direction and leadership to cross-functional teams, fostering a collaborative environment that encourages innovation and excellence.
• Stakeholder Management: Engage with key stakeholders to understand their needs and ensure program objectives are met. Communicate effectively with all levels of the organization to keep everyone informed and aligned.
• Performance Monitoring: Establish metrics and KPIs to monitor the progress and success of programs. Regularly review and analyze performance data to make informed decisions and adjustments as needed.
• Risk Management: Identify potential risks and develop mitigation strategies to ensure the successful delivery of programs. Proactively address issues that may arise during the program lifecycle.
• Continuous Improvement: Promote a culture of continuous improvement by identifying opportunities for process enhancements and implementing best practices.
• Resource Allocation: Manage resources effectively to ensure programs are adequately staffed and funded. Optimize the use of resources to achieve maximum efficiency and impact.
• Reporting and Documentation: Maintain comprehensive documentation of program activities, progress, and outcomes. Provide regular reports to senior leadership on the status of programs.

Required Qualifications:

• Experience: A minimum of 10 years of experience in program management, with at least 5 years in a leadership role. Experience in managing large-scale, complex technical programs is essential.
• Technical Expertise: Strong technical background with a deep understanding of the industry and the ability to engage with technical teams effectively.
• Certifications: Professional certifications such as PMP (Project Management Professional), PgMP (Program Management Professional), or similar credentials are preferred.
• Leadership Skills: Proven track record of leading and motivating cross-functional teams to achieve program goals.
• Strategic Vision: Ability to develop and implement strategic initiatives that align with the company's objectives.
• Communication Skills: Excellent verbal and written communication skills, with the ability to engage and influence stakeholders at all levels.
• Problem-Solving Abilities: Strong analytical and problem-solving skills to address complex issues and drive program success.
• Adaptability: Flexibility to adapt to changing priorities and navigate through uncertainties.
• Customer Focus: A strong commitment to understanding and addressing the needs of internal and external customers.
• Continuous Improvement: A commitment to promoting a culture of continuous improvement and implementing best practices.

EEO Statement

Integrated into our shared values is Candescent’s commitment to diversity and equal employment opportunity. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to sex, age, race, color, creed, religion, national origin, disability, sexual orientation, gender identity, veteran status, military service, genetic information, or any other characteristic or conduct protected by law. Candescent is committed to being a globally inclusive company where all people are treated fairly, recognized for their individuality, promoted based on performance and encouraged to strive to reach their full potential.  We believe in understanding and respecting differences among all people. Every individual at Candescent has an ongoing responsibility to respect and support a globally diverse environment.

Statement to Third Party Agencies
To ALL recruitment agencies: Candescent only accepts resumes from agencies on the preferred supplier list. Please do not forward resumes to our applicant tracking system, Candescent employees, or any Candescent facility. Candescent is not responsible for any fees or charges associated with unsolicited resumes.