Project Manager, Data Strategy

Role Overview:The Project Manager, Data Strategy supports the execution of IEDC’s Data Strategy and Research agenda by coordinating cross-functional initiatives, improving operation processes, and driving project execution across economic development, workforce, education, and employer data systems. This position helps the Data Strategy team bring greater clarity, structure, and consistency to how the state gathers information, develops insights, and sets a research agenda that supports economic development priorities.Salary Statement:The salary range for this position is $64,000 - $70,000, commensurate with education and work experience.A Day in the Life:Data Strategy and Research AgendaSupport the development of a statewide research agenda, including gathering inputs, organizing ideas, and documenting themes and priorities.Assist with system mapping to identify gaps, redundancies, and opportunities in education, workforce, and employer data and data systems across agencies.Prepare summaries of data, reports, and stakeholder conversations into concise, clear materials for internal and external audiences.Support the coordination and preparation of presentations, briefing materials, and insight summaries.Help analyze, write, edit, and format deliverables for data‑related projects and research products.Project ManagementSupport development of scopes of work and budgets for proof of concept and pilot projects.Develop and maintain project plans, task lists, timelines, and documentation for Data Strategy initiatives.Monitor project risks, dependencies, and action items and escalate issues as appropriate.Coordinate implementation timelines across multiple concurrent strategic initiatives.Responsible for internal communications, including meeting agendas, documentation, decision logs, and process guides.Support governance and accountability structures for cross-functional projects.Identify simple process improvements that help the team operate more efficiently.Stakeholder and Cross-Agency CoordinationAssist with scheduling, logistics, follow‑up tracking, and communication with internal and external partners, including education, workforce, and economic development.Support cross‑agency collaboration by ensuring information is shared, questions are captured, and deadlines are met.Draft clear, strategic communication materials for briefings and partner updates.Documentation, Quality & Data GovernanceHelp maintain documentation for workflows, definitions, processes, and shared understanding of state data systems.Support compliance with data‑sharing agreements, data privacy laws, and state regulations.Ensure team materials and methodologies are organized, accessible, and up to date.Support development and maintenance of data governance practices.What You'll Need for Success:EducationBachelor’s degree in Political Science, Public Policy, Project Management, Economic Development, Education Studies, Data Technology, or related field.Experience:3-5 years of experience in project management, strategy execution, stakeholder engagement, and cross-functional coordination, ideally in public sector, public-private partnerships, workforce, economic development, or data-oriented roles.Demonstrated experience managing complex, multi-stakeholder initiatives and cross-functional teams with tight timelines.Experience supporting data‑informed projects, dashboards, or research outputs.Strong background in strategic communications, community and partner engagement, and facilitation.Knowledge ofProject management, including agile methods, timeline management, and cross-functional leadership.Creative problem solving, ability to define problems, structure solutions, and iterate quickly.Excellent communication, facilitation, and stakeholder management skills.Proficiency in project management tools (e.g., MS Project, Asana, Monday, or similar).Ability to understand dashboards, KPIs, AI fundamentals, and data products.Ability to DemonstrateInitiative and Judgement – ability to work independently with minimal instruction while also identifying when to elevate issues for input or decision-makingCommunication – Ability to communicate effectively with executive leadership, agency partners, and cross-functional stakeholders in a fast-paced environment.Strategic Thinking – analyze complex situations, anticipate challenges, and develop innovative solutions that align with organizational goals.Problem Solving – identify root causes, evaluate alternatives, and implement effective solutions to improve processes and outcomes.Collaboration & Influence – build strong relationships, foster teamwork, and influence stakeholders at all levels to achieve shared objectives.Adaptability – adjust to changing priorities, manage ambiguity, and remain effective in dynamic environments.Results Orientation - set clear goals, monitor progress, and deliver high-quality outcomes within established timelines and budgets.Benefits of Employment with the State of Indiana:The State of Indiana offers a comprehensive benefit package for full-time employees which includes:Three (3) medical plan options (including RX coverage) as well as vision and dental plansWellness Rewards Program: Complete wellness activities to earn gift card rewardsHealth savings account, which includes bi-weekly state contributionDeferred compensation 457(b) account (similar to 401(k) plan) with employer matchTwo (2) fully-funded pension plan optionsA robust, comprehensive program of leave policies covering a variety of employee needs, including but not limited to:160 hours of paid New Parent Leave and up to eight weeks of paid Childbirth Recovery Leave for eligible mothersUp to 16 hours of paid community service leaveCombined 192 hours of paid vacation, personal, and sick leave time off12 paid holidays, 14 on election yearsEducation Reimbursement ProgramGroup life insuranceReferral Bonus programEmployee assistance program that allows for covered behavioral health visitsQualified employer for the Public Service Loan Forgiveness ProgramFree Parking for most positionsFree LinkedIn Learning accessEqual Employment Opportunity:The State of Indiana is an Equal Opportunity Employer and is committed to recruiting, selecting, developing, and promoting employees based on individual ability and job performance. Reasonable accommodations may be available to enable individuals with disabilities to complete the application and interview process as well as perform the essential functions of a role. If you require reasonable accommodations to complete this application, you can request assistance by contacting the Indiana State Personnel Department at jobs@spd.IN.gov.