Program Implementation Manager

Education Systems Center (EdSystems) is a mission-driven policy development and program implementation center dedicated to shaping and strengthening education and workforce systems. EdSystems helps create a world where students have clear, unambiguous paths to college and career opportunities that equip them for meaningful participation in the global economy. We collaborate with state and local education agencies, workforce boards, community colleges, universities, and other stakeholders to design, implement, and evaluate policies and practices that ensure successful transitions to and through postsecondary and career opportunities for students, with a particular emphasis on historically marginalized populations.

The Program Implementation Manager will be a critical team member in translating EdSystems’ evidence-based policy work into effective, equitable, and scalable practices at the local and regional level. This role involves the day-to-day oversight of complex projects, ensuring they are implemented with fidelity, meet established outcomes, and align with EdSystems’ commitment to systemic change and equity in education. The Manager will serve as a primary contact for key local and regional partners, providing technical assistance, facilitating cross-sector collaboration, and managing project resources, timelines, and reporting.

• Lead the planning and execution of assigned EdSystems programs and initiatives (e.g., College and Career Pathway Endorsements, transitional instruction, work-based learning networks) from conception through evaluation.
• Provide intensive, high-quality technical assistance and capacity building to local stakeholders, including K-12 districts, community colleges, regional intermediaries, and employers, to support the adoption and continuous improvement of innovative practices.
• Manage project work plans, budgets, and timelines, ensuring all activities are on track, deliverables are met, and grant requirements are strictly adhered to.
• Facilitate and coordinate regional and statewide convenings, work groups, and network meetings for diverse partners, driving consensus and shared action toward common goals.
• Develop and refine implementation resources, tools, guides, and professional learning materials to support practitioners in applying state policy and evidence-based practices.

• Cultivate and maintain strong, collaborative relationships with local leaders, state agency personnel, foundation representatives, and other partners, serving as the trusted point person for program implementation.
• Act as an intermediary between state-level policy development teams and local practice teams, ensuring local needs inform policy and state mandates are effectively translated into practice.
• Represent EdSystems at external meetings, conferences, and public forums to share project successes, lessons learned, and expertise in postsecondary and career systems.
• Collaborate with the Data & Impact team to establish and monitor key performance indicators (KPIs) and evaluation metrics for programs.
• Oversee and contribute to the collection, analysis, and interpretation of program data to inform continuous improvement cycles, measure equity outcomes, and assess overall impact.
• Prepare and submit timely, high-quality progress and final reports to funders, university leadership, and state partners, clearly articulating program outcomes and financial stewardship.

• Bachelor’s degree in education, public policy, nonprofit management, or a related field.
• Minimum of 3-5 years of progressively responsible experience in program management, implementation, or a related role within the K-12, postsecondary, or workforce development sectors.
• Demonstrated experience translating policy or strategic vision into actionable, on-the-ground program plans.
• Exceptional project management skills, including budget oversight, timeline management, and grant reporting.
• Strong facilitation and communication (written and verbal) skills, with the ability to convey complex information clearly to diverse audiences.
• Commitment to equity and experience applying an equity lens to program design and implementation.
• High proficiency in utilizing productivity software and project management tools.
• Possession of a valid Illinois Driver’s license and or access to reliable transportation to local, regional, and statewide engagements.

• Master’s degree in a relevant field.
• Direct experience working with or implementing Illinois-specific education initiatives (e.g., Postsecondary and Workforce Readiness (PWR) Act, College and Career Pathway Endorsements).
• Experience in a policy-to-practice organization, research center, or non-profit setting.