We Impact Lives Through Purpose-Driven Work in A People First Culture Ascend Learning, a leading healthcare and learning technology company, is the connection between a powerful portfolio of brands serving students, educators, and employers with outcomes-based, data-driven solutions across the lifecycle of learning. From testing to certification, Ascend Learning products are used by physicians, emergency medical professionals, nurses, allied health professionals, certified personal trainers, financial advisors, skilled trades professionals and insurance brokers.
Headquartered in Burlington, MA, with additional office locations and hybrid and remote workers in cities across the U.S., Ascend Learning was recognized by Newsweek and Plant-A Insights Group as one of America's 2025 Greatest Workplaces as well as America's Best Places to work for Mental Well-Being for 2025.
We're always looking for talented, passionate professionals to join us in our mission to help change lives. If this sounds like an environment where you'd thrive, read on to learn more.
WHAT YOU'LL DO As a Program Manager, you will be responsible for overseeing and managing the successful delivery of multiple programs within the organization. You will lead cross-functional teams, set program goals, and ensure alignment with organizational objectives. You will be accountable for program planning, execution, monitoring, and closure, ensuring that projects within the program are delivered on time, within budget, and meet quality standards. The Program Manager will collaborate closely with stakeholders at all levels to drive program success and provide effective communication and coordination throughout the program lifecycle.
WHERE YOU'LL WORK This position will work a hybrid schedule from either of our office locations in Leawood, KS or Burlington, MA.
HOW YOU'LL SPEND YOUR TIME - Lead and manage multiple programs, providing strategic direction, guidance, and support to cross-functional teams.
- Define program scope, goals, and deliverables in collaboration with senior management and key stakeholders.
- Develop and implement program management processes, methodologies, and standards to ensure consistent and effective program execution.
- Establish program governance frameworks, including program initiation, planning, execution, monitoring, and closure.
- Allocate and manage resources, including project managers and team members, to ensure programs are staffed appropriately to meet objectives and deadlines.
- Monitor program progress, track milestones, and address potential risks or issues that may impact program timelines, budgets, or quality.
- Provide regular updates to stakeholders, including executive leadership, on program status, risks, and mitigation strategies.
- Foster effective communication and collaboration among cross-functional teams, ensuring alignment and coordination throughout the program lifecycle.
- Implement program performance metrics and reporting mechanisms to evaluate program success and drive continuous improvement.
- Serve as a point of escalation for program-related issues and provide guidance and support to project managers and team members.
WHAT YOU'LL NEED - Bachelor's degree in business administration, project management, or a related field required. A master's degree is preferred.
- A minimum of 5 years of experience in program management, project management, a related role, or a combination of.
- Professional certifications in program management or project management, such as PgMP or PMP, are desirable.
- Strong knowledge and understanding of program management principles, methodologies, and best practices.
- Proven track record of successfully leading and delivering complex programs within budget and on time.
- Excellent leadership and team management skills, with the ability to motivate and inspire cross-functional teams.
- Excellent communication and interpersonal skills, with the ability to effectively collaborate with stakeholders at all levels of the organization.
- Strong analytical and problem-solving abilities, with a keen attention to detail.
- Demonstrated ability to manage multiple programs simultaneously and prioritize workload effectively.
- Proficiency in project management software and tools.
BENEFITS - Flexible and generous paid time off
- Competitive medical, dental, vision and life insurance
- 401(k) employer matching program
- Parental leave
- Wellness resources
- Charitable matching program
- On-site workout facilities (Leawood, Gilbert, Burlington)
- Community outreach groups
- Tuition reimbursement
Fostering A Sense of Belonging Our values-driven culture unifies our teams and inspires a mindset of action, innovation, and collaboration, with a relentless focus on customers. We seek out and celebrate all people and perspectives and cultivate an inclusive culture where everyone can thrive, feel valued, and be authentic. Our culture is firmly rooted in the belief that by embracing our differences and drawing on diverse perspectives, we are a stronger, more innovative, and more successful organization where employees experience a sense of belonging.
Ascend Learning, LLC is proud to be an equal opportunity employer (M/F/Vets/Disabled). No agency or search firm submissions will be accepted. Applications for U.S.-based positions with Ascend Learning, LLC must be legally authorized to work in the United States, and verification of employment eligibility will be required at the time of hire.
Nearest Major Market: Boston
Please see the job description for required or recommended skills.
Please see the job description for benefits.