Program Manager

Program ManagerEngagement Type: Contract-to-HireLocation: Richmond, VA (Hybrid)Compensation: ~$60-75/hr (Final compensation will be dependant on skillset and experience)Position OverviewThe Program Manager will serve as a strategic governance coordinator, helping Virginia state agencies navigate end-to-end governance, procurement, and project planning processes. This is not a traditional day-to-day project management role—it is a big-picture, agency-facing function focused on sequencing, planning, and coordination across multiple divisions. The Program Manager will act as a guide and advocate for agencies, helping them understand timelines, procurement requirements, and governance obligations before projects launch.Key ResponsibilitiesServe as a primary point of contact for assigned state agencies navigating the clients governance processes.Work backwards from agency project goals to map procurement timelines, contract onboarding windows, RFI/RFP requirements, and evaluation periods.Coordinate across contracts, procurement, strategic partners, and other internal teams to streamline agency engagement.Help agencies understand when to involve key stakeholders and how to sequence major project milestones.Advise agencies on procurement strategy, including when an RFI is needed to strengthen requirements before an RFP.Identify and surface capacity constraints (agency staff, procurement resources, security, etc.) that could impact project timelines.Help agencies prioritize across multiple concurrent projects and align launch timing to available resources.Support efforts to build a risk library by capturing lessons learned across the investment, business case, and procurement phases.Assist agencies in understanding governance obligations and the importance of planning for compliance early in the project lifecycle.Provide regular updates and briefings on agency pipeline status and risk items.Required QualificationsState government experience required—must have served as a Project or Program Manager at a Virginia state agency (e.g., DMV, VITA, DOT, or similar).Direct experience working within Virginia state governance and procurement frameworks, including familiarity with RFS submissions, procurement processes, and agency coordination.PMP certification required.Strong risk management background with the ability to identify and mitigate project and procurement risks.Excellent communication and stakeholder management skills, with experience advising agency leadership.Ability to manage multiple agency relationships simultaneously and prioritize competing demands.Strong analytical and critical thinking skills.Preferred QualificationsExperience with AI tools or emerging technologies in a government or enterprise environment.Private sector project or program management experience in addition to state service.Familiarity with the Commonwealth's biennial budget and planning cycles.Why this role mattersThis role serves as a key connection between state agencies and the governance, procurement, and project planning process. The Program Manager will help reduce project risk, improve procurement outcomes, and support agencies in delivering technology initiatives more effectively through proactive planning, coordination, and stakeholder engagement.