Staff Technical Program Manager

AffirmAffirm·Remote(Remote Canada)
Project Management

WFA Digital Insight

The demand for skilled technical program managers in the finance sector has grown significantly, with a 25% increase in job postings over the past year. As companies like Affirm continue to innovate and expand their product lines, the need for experts who can oversee complex technical programs and drive process improvements has never been more pressing. With the rise of remote work, professionals with strong digital skills and experience in managing distributed teams are in high demand. Affirm's commitment to a remote-first culture and its focus on transparency and simplicity in its pay structure make it an attractive employer for those looking for a challenging and rewarding role. Before applying, candidates should be aware of the company's emphasis on collaboration, strategic thinking, and technical expertise.

Job Description

About the Role

The Staff Technical Program Manager role at Affirm is a critical position that entails overseeing high visibility programs and driving process improvements to support the company's mission of expanding its consumer product suite and platform capabilities. As a key member of the team, you will be responsible for coordinating across engineering teams and non-engineering stakeholders to plan requirements, identify risks, manage program schedules, and communicate clearly with cross-functional partners. Your expertise in technical program management will be essential in helping the Product and Engineering teams develop processes and frameworks for building quality software and evaluating new technology developments.

The role requires a deep understanding of technical implementation at the architecture level, as well as the ability to propose technical alternatives, ask questions that clarify priorities, and develop domain and technical knowledge. Your experience in managing complex, multi-disciplinary programs will be invaluable in driving the team's mission and ensuring the successful delivery of high-quality products.

As a Staff Technical Program Manager at Affirm, you will be working in a fast-paced and dynamic environment, collaborating with cross-functional teams, and contributing to the company's growth and success. Your expertise and leadership will be essential in shaping the company's technical program management practices and ensuring the delivery of high-quality products that meet the needs of consumers and merchants.

What You Will Do

  • Drive complex, multi-disciplinary, and highly visible technical programs in service of the team's mission
  • Coordinate across engineering teams and non-engineering stakeholders to plan requirements, identify risks, manage program schedules, and communicate clearly with cross-functional partners
  • Understand technical implementation at the architecture level and propose technical alternatives
  • Develop domain and technical knowledge and ask questions that clarify priorities
  • Partner with Product and Engineering to plan requirements, identify risks, manage program schedules, and communicate clearly with cross-functional partners
  • Track progress, resolve dependencies, evaluate risks, and communicate status to upper management and program stakeholders
  • Engage program teams to achieve goals and drive process improvements
  • Collaborate with cross-functional teams to develop and implement new technologies and features
  • Develop and maintain relationships with key stakeholders, including engineering teams, product managers, and designers

What We Are Looking For

  • Bachelor's degree in Computer Science, Electrical Engineering, or equivalent practical experience
  • 8 years of proven experience managing technical programs
  • Passion and drive to change consumer finance for the better
  • Organized and strategic approach to collaborating across multi-disciplinary teams
  • Strong technical expertise and understanding of software development methodologies
  • Experience in managing distributed teams and driving process improvements
  • Strong stakeholder management skills, with experience in working with Engineering, Product, Design, Analytics, and other cross-functional teams
  • Prior experience in FinTech, Payments, or Commerce is a plus

Nice to Have

  • Experience with agile development methodologies and project management tools
  • Knowledge of cloud-based technologies and infrastructure
  • Familiarity with data analytics and machine learning concepts
  • Experience in working with remote teams and driving collaboration across different time zones

Benefits and Perks

  • Competitive salary and equity package
  • Comprehensive benefits package, including 100% subsidized medical coverage, dental, and vision for you and your dependents
  • Monthly stipends for health, wellness, and tech spending
  • Flexible work arrangements, including remote work options and flexible hours
  • Opportunities for professional growth and development, including training and education programs
  • Access to a network of experienced professionals and thought leaders in the industry
  • A dynamic and supportive work environment that encourages collaboration and innovation

How to Stand Out

  • Make sure you have a strong understanding of technical program management principles and practices, and be prepared to provide examples of your experience in managing complex technical programs.
  • Highlight your ability to drive process improvements and collaborate with cross-functional teams, and provide examples of your experience in working with distributed teams.
  • Be prepared to discuss your experience with technical implementation at the architecture level and your ability to propose technical alternatives.
  • Show your passion and drive to change consumer finance for the better, and provide examples of your experience in the finance sector or a related field.
  • Make sure your resume and online profiles are up-to-date and highlight your technical expertise, program management experience, and achievements in the field.
  • Be prepared to ask questions during the interview, such as what the biggest challenges facing the team are and how you can contribute to the company's mission.
  • Research the company's culture and values, and be prepared to discuss how you can contribute to a remote-first culture and drive collaboration across different time zones.

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