Manager, Foundation Programs (Skills First at Work)

Program Manager, Skills First at WorkThe Program Manager, Skills First at Work is a dynamic and proven leader responsible for executing strategy, administering, and evaluating SHRM Foundation programming that advances skills-first talent management across the employer lifecycle. This role manages a portfolio of initiatives focused on helping employers shift from credential- and degree-based hiring toward practices that recognize skills, competencies, and potential. As part of the broader Widening Pathways to Work portfolio, this role works in close coordination with the Program Manager for Untapped Pools of Talent to ensure that skills-first strategies are implemented in ways that expand access to opportunity for a broad range of workers. The Program Manager ensures program excellence, funder accountability, and achievement of intended impact within their designated portfolio, supporting the Foundation's goal to transform the hiring practices of 100,000 U.S. employers by 2034. Responsibilities include managing a series of programs and grants focused on skills-first hiring and advancement, providing ongoing oversight, managing vendor and partner relationships, developing annual and monthly operational plans, collaborating with SHRM Research and Product Development teams, engaging with SHRM Membership and Government Affairs teams, collaborating with the Foundation's Engagement and Philanthropy team, supervising program staff and dedicated contractors, implementing evaluation frameworks, developing compelling narratives and success stories, and other duties as assigned. Education and experience requirements include a germane degree and non-degree credentials or other verifications of skills and competencies, at least eight years of progressive program and leadership experience, demonstrated success managing complex projects, proven track record in grant management, supervisory experience, and experience designing and implementing employer-facing programs. Knowledge, skills, and abilities include demonstrated aptitude in landscape research and analysis, complex project management, philanthropic engagement, program assessment, ability to articulate overarching strategy, strong collaboration and negotiation skills, ability to engage CEOs, HR leaders, and practitioners, highly proficient in cross-functional collaboration, and excellent organizational planning, presentation, and professional writing skills. Physical requirements include prolonged periods of sitting at a desk, frequent use of hands and fingers, occasional standing, walking, bending, and reaching, ability to lift and carry up to 30 pounds, and clear verbal and written communication skills. Work environment includes a hybrid position with 3 days in-office and 2 days remote, travel of 20-30%, and a hiring range of $100,000 to $125,000 per year with a competitive and comprehensive total rewards package.