IT Program Manager - AI & Digitial

Job Purpose

The IT Program Manager - Digtial & AI is responsible for leading complex, cross-functional technology programs that enable enterprise growth, digital transformation, and AI-driven innovation. Operating within the enterprise IT portfolio, this role oversees large-scale initiatives and emerging AI and data programs that support strategic business objectives.

This position provides end-to-end program leadership across multiple concurrent initiatives, ensuring alignment to enterprise priorities, disciplined governance, proactive risk mitigation, and measurable value realization. In addition to managing direct reports, the role partners closely with executive stakeholders, including the Chief Digital & AI Officer and other AI Leaders, and owns executive-level reporting, governance, and steering communications. The Senior IT Program Manager drives structured execution while strengthening program management capabilities across the organization.

How You Make an Impact (Job Accountabilities)

Enterprise Program Leadership (30%)

• Lead complex, multi-project programs aligned to digital, AI, and enterprise technology roadmaps.
• Oversee large-scale initiatives and AI/data programs supporting enterprise growth strategies.
• Ensure integration across workstreams, proactively managing scope, dependencies, risk, and timeline.
• Drive value realization by aligning program outcomes to defined business objectives and measurable performance indicators.

Executive Governance & Strategic Alignment (20%)

• Own executive-level program reporting, dashboards, and steering committee communications.
• Partner with the Chief Digital & AI Officer, IT leadership, and cross-functional executives to align priorities and sequencing.
• Provide clear visibility into program health, delivery risks, and organizational readiness.
• Influence enterprise decision-making through structured analysis, scenario planning, and transparent communication.

People Leadership & Capability Development (15%)

• Directly manage and develop a small team of Project Managers, providing coaching, performance management, and workload prioritization.
• Establish consistent delivery standards, governance rigor, and accountability across assigned programs.
• Build bench strength within the PMO to support expanding AI and enterprise technology initiatives.

Portfolio Alignment & Delivery Oversight (15%)

• Ensure programs are sequenced and resourced in alignment with enterprise priorities.
• Identify cross-program risks, interdependencies, and optimization opportunities.
• Support planning and forecasting processes in partnership with IT leadership.

Cross-Functional & Matrix Leadership (15%)

• Lead cross-functional teams spanning IT, Digital, AI, Data, Analytics, and Business functions.
• Coordinate matrix resources to support enterprise AI and digital growth initiatives.
• Remove organizational barriers and resolve escalated issues to maintain program momentum.

Continuous Improvement & Governance Maturity (5%)

• Strengthen program management frameworks, reporting standards, and governance models within the PMO.
• Promote scalable delivery practices to support increasing program complexity and organizational growth.

What You Bring to the Role (Job Qualifications / Education / Skills / Requirements / Capabilities)

Education

Bachelor’s degree in Information Technology, Computer Science, Engineering, Business, or related field required.
Master’s degree preferred.

Experience

• 12+ years of progressive experience in IT project and program management.
• 5+ years leading complex, enterprise-level programs with multiple concurrent initiatives.
• Demonstrated experience supporting digital transformation, AI, data, ERP, or enterprise technology initiatives.
• Experience working with executive stakeholders and preparing executive-level communications and reporting.
• Proven experience leading and developing project managers or delivery leads.

Certifications

• PMP certification required
• Agile, SAFe, or related certifications preferred.

Technical & Leadership Capabilities

• Strong program governance and delivery oversight expertise.
• Ability to manage integrated program roadmaps with multiple concurrent workstreams.
• Executive-level communication and presentation skills.
• Experience building structured reporting dashboards and performance metrics.
• Strong risk identification and mitigation planning capability.
• Ability to influence cross-functional leaders without direct authority.
• Demonstrated ability to balance strategic priorities with disciplined execution.

Competencies Desired

• Enterprise mindset with strong business acumen
• Strategic thinking with disciplined execution
• Executive presence and sound judgment
• Accountability and ownership of outcomes
• Collaborative leadership across matrixed teams
• Ability to navigate ambiguity and scale evolving initiatives

Working Conditions / Physical Requirements / Travel Requirements

Regional remote role with proximity to Lexington, KY headquarters. Hybrid engagement required for key meetings and strategic planning sessions. Primarily office-based work with extended periods of computer use.

Travel Requirements:

Approximately 15% travel, primarily domestic, to support executive alignment, program milestones, and cross-functional collaboration.