Program Manager - IT Operations
WFA Digital Insight
With the rise of remote work, companies like Openai are looking for skilled program managers to oversee IT operations. Demand for experienced IT professionals has grown significantly, with a 25% increase in job postings over the past year. As a program manager at Openai, you'll be at the forefront of driving operational excellence and scalability. To succeed, you'll need strong program management skills, excellent judgment, and the ability to work effectively with both technical and non-technical teams. Before applying, consider whether your skills align with Openai's commitment to artificial intelligence and operational efficiency.
Job Description
About the Role
The Program Manager - IT Operations is a critical role at Openai, responsible for leading cross-functional programs that improve operational maturity and scalability. As a key member of the Employee Technology & Experience (ETX) team, you'll work closely with various stakeholders to drive alignment, remove friction, and build the operational foundation needed to support Openai's rapid growth. The ETX team is responsible for delivering a world-class internal technology experience, and as a program manager, you'll play a vital role in achieving this goal.The role entails managing complex cross-functional programs, partnering with technical teams, and driving operational excellence initiatives. You'll be responsible for building operating models, readiness plans, and success metrics, as well as improving operational visibility and stakeholder alignment. The ideal candidate will have a strong track record of improving internal operations, excellent judgment and execution skills, and the ability to operate effectively with both technical and non-technical partners.
What You Will Do
- Lead cross-functional operational programs to improve scalability, consistency, and operational maturity
- Drive operational excellence initiatives across IT Support, employee lifecycle operations, meeting room and calendaring services, onsite support, vending, and research support environments
- Build operating models, readiness plans, escalation paths, governance cadences, and success metrics for complex operational programs
- Partner with technical teams to ensure new deployments, infrastructure investments, and internal platforms are operationally ready and sustainably supported at scale
- Drive high-priority operational programs supporting company growth, including infrastructure expansion, operational integrations, and other emerging initiatives
- Improve operational visibility, stakeholder alignment, and coordination across long-running cross-functional initiatives
- Create clarity across complex operational programs by establishing clear ownership, execution plans, operational accountability, and durable follow-through
- Own intake, prioritization, coordination, and completion of operational work originating from cross-functional teams and stakeholders
- Develop and maintain strong relationships with stakeholders and team members
- Stay up-to-date with industry trends and best practices in IT operations and program management
What We Are Looking For
- 10+ years of program management experience leading complex cross-functional initiatives in high-growth, fast-moving environments
- Experience building and scaling operational processes, service models, and operating frameworks across technical and operational teams
- Strong track record of improving internal operations, workplace technology, support environments, or other large-scale service-oriented programs
- Excellent judgment and execution skills, with the ability to drive prioritization, alignment, and sustained momentum across multiple teams and competing demands
- Strong communication and stakeholder management skills, with the ability to operate effectively with both technical and non-technical partners
- Proficiency in Excel and other productivity tools
- Experience working in a fast-paced, dynamic environment with a strong focus on innovation and growth
- Ability to work collaboratively with cross-functional teams, including engineering, security, and workplace teams
Nice to Have
- Experience with IT service management frameworks, such as ITIL
- Knowledge of cloud-based technologies and infrastructure
- Familiarity with artificial intelligence and machine learning concepts
- Certification in program management, such as PMP or Agile
- Experience working in a remote or distributed team environment
Benefits and Perks
- Competitive salary and benefits package
- Opportunity to work with a cutting-edge technology company
- Collaborative and dynamic work environment
- Professional development and growth opportunities
- Flexible working hours and remote work options
- Access to the latest tools and technologies
- Comprehensive health and wellness package
- Generous paid time off and holiday policy
How to Stand Out
- Make sure to highlight your program management experience and skills in your resume and cover letter
- Be prepared to talk about your experience with cross-functional programs and operational excellence initiatives
- Familiarize yourself with Openai's mission and values, and be prepared to discuss how your skills and experience align with them
- Showcase your ability to work effectively with both technical and non-technical teams, and highlight your excellent communication and stakeholder management skills
- Don't be afraid to ask questions during the interview process, and be prepared to discuss your salary expectations and benefits requirements
- Consider creating a portfolio or case studies that demonstrate your program management skills and experience, and be prepared to share them during the interview process
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