Principal Technology Program Manager

This is a 100% remote opportunity, candidates can be located anywhere in the US.

About Us :

CDK Global is a leading provider of cloud-based software to dealerships and Original Equipment Manufacturers (“OEMs”) across automotive and related industries. The Company’s cloud-based, software as a service (“SaaS”) platform enables dealerships to manage their end-to-end business operations including the acquisition, sale, financing, insuring, repair, and maintenance of vehicles. By automating and streamlining critical workflows, the integrated platform of modern solutions enables dealers to sell and service more vehicles by creating simple and convenient experiences for customers and improves their financial and operational performance.

Position Summary

The Principal Technology Program Manager defines, leads, and manages timely completion of engineering projects of 'high complexity and high risk' (e.g., cross-organization Business/Product Line involvement, with extended duration and scope, and cross organization dependencies and/or constraints) under limited supervision.  Exercises judgment regarding strategy, practices, and procedures, to accomplish challenging projects having a high level of risk and uncertainty in an agile environment. Communicates effectively and works collaboratively across organizations and business/product lines in support of creative delivery solutions and problem resolution. Mentors and guides Technology Project Managers at levels I-III. Demonstrates leadership and collaboration skills to achieve goals without direct control over resources. Works independently and exercises sound judgment in selecting methods and techniques to obtain results. 

Position Responsibilities & Essential function

• Follow effective processes to optimize delivery within an agile/SAFe environment.
• Synchronizes portfolio planning, scoping, and execution processes to deliver associated projects on-time and within budget to committed roadmaps, quality gates, and performance KPIs.
• Identify project goals, scope, resources, budget, dependencies, risks.
• Develop communication, change management, risk mitigation, and governance plans.
• Execute and track projects against set goals, timelines, quality gates, and performance KPIs.
• Identify, escalate, and resolve conflicts.
• Implement large, cross-team, multi-year programs and projects.
• Proactively identify opportunities and contribute to continuous business process improvement efforts to help streamline and standardize workflow, communication, and resource efficiencies.
• Conducts initiation and project closure activities to formalize and communicate the project acceptance and handover documentation and complete a post-implementation review to identify areas of improvement.
• Work with development leaders to define, collect, and analyze development team portfolio metrics, with an eye toward continuous improvement.
• Communicate portfolio scope, roadmap alignment, priorities, and status to governance board and stakeholders.
• Identify and manage portfolio risks and propose mitigation plans.
• Maintain awareness of industry trends, business conditions, and internal processes and practices to influence the success of portfolio initiatives.
• Provide mentoring to project managers on complex projects

Qualifications

Preferred:

• Project Management or Agile Certification (PMP, PMI-ACP, SAFe, CSP).
• Program Management Professional Certification (PgMP). 
• Experience working in an agile software development environment.
• Experience in collaborating with offshore agile teams.
• Strong understanding of technology stack and product lifecycle
• Experience in collaborating across business/product lines and organizational groups.

Education/Experience

• Bachelor’s degree in Computer Science, Business, or Engineering
• 10+ years of experience in managing technical programs, projects and priorities.
• 3 years’ experience leading and mentoring project management resources
• Understanding of project management tools such as JIRA, Confluence, Microsoft Office, Visio, etc.
• Strong problem-solving skills, technical aptitude, and automotive experience. Ability to think and act creatively and strategically.
• Exceptionally strong written and verbal communications with a strong aptitude for presenting thoughts and ideas to senior stakeholders.
• Excellent analysis, problem-solving, conflict management, and time management skills.
• Strong estimation, scheduling, budget, and resource allocation skills.
• Excellent interpersonal skills with the ability to negotiate and persuade key decision-makers.
• Excellent written and verbal communication skills with a strong aptitude for presenting succinctly.
• Excellent ability to set clear expectations, manage team performance, and build high morale among team members.
• Some travel may be required.

Compensation: $115,000 - $150,000

CDK Global is committed to fair and equitable compensation practices. Compensation packages are based on several factors, including but not limited to skills, experience, certifications, and work location.  The total compensation package for this position may also include annual performance bonus, benefits and/or other applicable incentive compensation plans.We offer Medical, dental, and vision benefits in addition to:

• Paid Time Off (PTO)

• 401K Matching Program

• Tuition Reimbursement

At CDK, we believe inclusion and diversity are essential in inspiring meaningful connections to our people, customers and communities. We are open, curious and encourage different views, so that everyone can be their best selves and make an impact.

CDK is an Equal Opportunity Employer committed to creating an inclusive workforce where everyone is valued. Qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, creed, ancestry, national origin, gender, sexual orientation, gender identity, gender expression, marital status, creed or religion, age, disability (including pregnancy), results of genetic testing, service in the military, veteran status or any other category protected by law.

Applicants for employment in the US must be authorized to work in the US.  CDK may offer employer visa sponsorship to applicants.