Program Manager, Office of Research Innovation,

The Program Manager for AI Tennessee supports the execution of strategic initiatives across research, technology, and engagement, overseeing multiple complex projects from planning through completion. This role plays a key part in shaping operational strategy and cross-unit alignment, with opportunities to influence program direction and drive outcomes. The Program Manager works closely with leadership to drive progress on internal investments and external partnerships that advance AI Tennessee's mission. This position can be in the office or hybrid.

Strategic Project Coordination & Documentation:

• Lead the development and maintenance of comprehensive documentation frameworks that support high-level decision-making at the AVC level and for the AI Tennessee leadership team

• Independently assesses and recommends adjustments to improve clarity and coherence of strategic goals, proactively identifying gaps or misalignments

• Prepare and present project status updates, reports, and presentations for leadership and stakeholders, synthesizing insights across projects

• Support strategic planning and road map development for future initiatives related to AI Tennessee

• Develop a structured approach for timely project updates, ensuring fluid communication across the team

• Provide informed recommendations on prioritization and resource allocation to support timely and effective project execution

• Anticipate risks and implement mitigation strategies to ensure the timely delivery of outcomes

Operational Efficiency & Process Improvement:

-Implement project management tools and best practices

• Facilitate accountability across collaborators by tracking progress and surfacing barriers to execution

• Recommend improvements to senior leadership on innovations to enhance operational workflows, streamlining processes while maintaining program integrity

• Manage multiple projects and assignments independently or as part of a team.

• Use effective communication methods to foster interaction and collaboration across the University, in support of efficiencies, removing impediments to workflow

Stakeholder Engagement & Event Strategy:

• Serve as the primary point of contact for AI Tennessee events and engagements, ensuring alignment with programmatic priorities

• Make decisions about event structure and engagement objectives, collaborating with the administrative team on logistical execution

• Manage stakeholder communications and lead post-event follow-up to evaluate impact and inform future planning

• Represent AI Tennessee at meetings, conferences, and stakeholder engagements, liaising with internal communications staff and external contractors to ensure consistent messaging.

OTHER DUTIES AS ASSIGNED:

• As required

Required Qualifications

• Education:
• Bachelor's Degree in a relevant field of study.
• Experience:
• Minimum of three (3) years of progressively responsible experience in program or project management
• Experience implementing project management tools and tracking progress
• Experience coordinating across units and engaging diverse stakeholders
• Knowledge, Skills, Abilities:
• Knowledge of project management principles and tools (e.g., Asana, ClickUp, Smartsheet, Jira)
• Skill in organizing and managing multiple concurrent projects with attention to detail
• Ability to analyze project documentation and identify strategic gaps
• Ability to work independently and collaboratively in a fast-paced environment
• Strong written and verbal communication skills
• Ability to implement process improvements and track operational metrics
• Ability to travel in support of AI Tennessee on occasion

Preferred Qualifications

• Education:
• Master's Degree in a relevant field of study.
• Experience:
• Experience in academic, research, or innovation-focused settings
• Experience supporting faculty or research teams
• Knowledge, Skills, Abilities:
• Knowledge of academic research environments and innovation ecosystems
• Ability to interpret strategic goals and translate them into operational plans
• Knowledge of event planning strategy and stakeholder engagement best practices

Work Location

• Location: Knoxville, TN
• Onsite, Hybrid

Compensation and Benefits

• UT market range: 11
• Anticipated hiring range: 11

Application Instructions

To express interest, please submit an application with the noted below attachments.

• Resume
• Cover Letter
• List of 3 Professional References