Project Manager (Learning & Research Initiatives)

Mirror Group | Contract Role (1099) | Project-Based/30-Month EngagementMirror Group is seeking a Project Manager to support two evaluation, learning, and learning initiatives. This role is ideal for someone who brings both precision and presence, a steady hand in managing complexity, and a thoughtful approach to working across diverse stakeholders and contexts. The ideal incumbent will serve as the operational anchor for their assigned projects, ensuring that timelines hold, communication flows, and deliverables are executed with clarity and care.Role OverviewThe Project Manager will provide overall project leadership, coordination, and quality assurance to ensure successful execution of all contract requirements. This role is responsible for overseeing day-to-day operations, aligning activities to the Statement of Work (SOW), and supporting the timely delivery of key milestones. Incumbent will lead interactions with multiple stakeholders, including internal team members, foundation partners, academic institutions, and external vendors.Key ResponsibilitiesProject Leadership & CoordinationProvide day-to-day project management across one or more concurrent initiativesCoordinate and monitor progress to ensure alignment with project goals, timelines, and deliverablesMaintain clear visibility into project status, risks, and dependenciesEnsure all activities are executed in accordance with the SOWOperations & ExecutionSchedule and coordinate cohort meetings and project touchpointsManage project communications across internal and external stakeholdersTrack deliverables, timelines, and key milestonesMaintain organized project documentation, including notes, trackers, and shared resourcesStakeholder & Relationship ManagementServe as a central point of coordination across foundation partners, research centers, and consultantsSupport relationship management with professionalism and cultural awarenessNavigate diverse academic and institutional contexts with sensitivity and clarityConvening & Vendor CoordinationCoordinate logistics for virtual and in-person conveningsLiaise with event vendors and manage timelines, materials, and communicationsEnsure smooth execution of meetings, site visits, and learning sessionsLearning & Synthesis SupportSupport the documentation and organization of learning across the projectAssist in synthesizing insights from meetings, discussions, and project activitiesContribute to the development of internal and external project outputsQuality AssuranceMonitor the quality and consistency of deliverables across the projectEnsure alignment between project activities and intended outcomesIdentify opportunities to strengthen processes, communication, and executionQualificationsMinimum of 3 years of experience managing projects or coordinating programs within a consulting or research environment, including planning, execution, tracking, and closeout of client engagementsDemonstrated ability to manage complex, multi-stakeholder projects by coordinating internal teams, clients, and external partners while aligning expectations and ensuring timely, high-quality deliverablesStrong organizational and time management skills with the ability to build and maintain detailed workplans, timelines, and tracking systems while ensuring accuracy and attention to detailProven excellence in developing written products and verbal communication skills, including the ability to develop client-ready reports, presentations, and clear communications that translate moderate to complex research or evaluation conceptsExperience coordinating virtual and in-person events or convenings, including logistics management, agenda development, stakeholder coordination, and facilitation supportAbility to manage multiple priorities and concurrent projects while maintaining clarity, responsiveness, and consistent delivery under shifting timelines and client needsDemonstrated cultural competency and experience working across diverse communities, incorporating inclusive and equitable practices into stakeholder engagement and project executionExperience in comfort-supporting learning, strategy, and evaluation-focused initiatives, including coordinating data collection, supporting analysis, contributing to reports, and facilitating learning or strategy sessionsEducation & CertificationsMaster’s degree preferred in Public Policy, Public Health, Social Sciences, Education, Organizational Development, or a related field, with 3+ years of relevant experience in project management, research, evaluation, or consulting environmentsORBachelor’s degree required in a related field, with 5–7+ years of progressive experience managing projects, coordinating programs, or supporting research/evaluation initiatives in complex, multi-stakeholder environmentsProject management certification preferred, such as PMP or CAPM from Project Management Institute or equivalent credentialTraining or certification in evaluation, facilitation, or learning methodologies (e.g., through American Evaluation Association or similar organizations) strongly valuedOur Workplace CultureAt Mirror Group, our culture is grounded in three simple commitments: Be Kind. Work Hard. Give Grace. We approach our work with care for one another and the communities we serve. We hold a high bar for excellence and take pride in delivering thoughtful, rigorous work. And we recognize that we are human, extending grace as we navigate complexity, deadlines, and growth together. It is a culture rooted in respect, accountability, and the understanding that how we work matters just as much as what we produce.Project-Based EngagementThis is a project-based consulting role, designed for a defined 30-month initiative. Engagement will ebb and flow with the rhythm of the work, with more intensive periods during facilitation, convenings, and key deliverables, and lighter touchpoints during synthesis and planning phases. Consultants are valued as part of our collective, contributing their expertise with flexibility, professionalism, and a shared commitment to the success of the project.