Program Manager

Program Manager – UIDP

UIDP is seeking a Program Manager who is energized by the opportunity to make a lasting impact through innovative collaborations between universities and companies worldwide. In this role, you’ll help shape forward‑thinking programs, services, and initiatives that strengthen university‑industry partnerships and advance the human condition.

As a Program Manager, you will play a central role in designing and delivering high‑value programs that align with UIDP’s strategic vision.

• Collaborate for Success: Partner with program sponsors, UIDP members, and staff to creatively plan and shape scope, deliverables, resources, timelines, and work plans for current and new initiatives.
• Drive Impactful Goals: Set ambitious goals for programs and take ownership of delivering on established business objectives, ensuring meaningful difference.
• Innovate with Volunteers: Work with UIDP community volunteers to brainstorm ideas, transform them into projects and compile compelling work reports.
• Mitigate Risks and Report Progress: Analyze and evaluate program risks while developing strategies to overcome them. Produce insightful program reports for management and stakeholders.
• Craft High‑Impact Reports: Write clear, impactful reports that synthesize insights for leaders and communicate successes and growth areas.
• Champion Our Initiatives: Promote UIDP’s initiatives and key learnings internally and externally.
• Lead Learning Initiatives: Support the development of a dynamic learning management program.

• ERVA, The Engineering Research Visioning Alliance
• Contracting Forum
• HBCU Initiative

You’re a dynamic program manager who thrives in evolving environments and adapts effortlessly to shifting priorities.
Hungry to learn and contribute, you take initiative and move ideas into action with minimal supervision, consistently driving efficiency and impactful results. Your humility is evident in collaboration, listening attentively, valuing diverse perspectives, and supporting others to succeed. You’re also people‑smart
, building strong relationships and communicating with clarity and empathy. Highly organized and dependable, you manage deadlines with precision while fostering a positive and solutions‑oriented atmosphere.

• Bachelor’s Degree
• 5 years of program management, relevant research, or professional business experience

• Lead with Confidence: Demonstrated ability to spearhead initiatives, navigate challenges, and drive projects to successful completion.
• Data‑Driven Decision Maker: Proven skills in developing and executing analyses that identify opportunities for program improvement and growth.
• Expert at Organization: Strong organizational skills, creating and implementing practical strategies and solutions.
• Translating Insights into Action: Ability to distill complex findings into best practices understandable to both academic and general audiences.
• Adaptable and Resourceful: Establish work priorities and remain flexible in fast‑paced environments.
• Exceptional Communicator: Excellent communication and interpersonal skills.
• Tech‑Savvy: Proficient in Microsoft 365 and other computer applications.
• Preference for candidates with background/understanding of U‑I collaborations; experience in university or corporate strategy driving change initiatives is highly desirable.
• Advanced degree with formal education at some level (BS, Master’s) in STEM disciplines.
• PMP certification.
• Familiarity with federal agencies and their R&D program management.
• Grant writing experience and post‑award management.
• Experience with content development for workshops, webinars, and conferences.
• Experience with leading a learning management program.

UIDP ((Use the "Apply for this Job" box below). ) is a global nonprofit membership association that helps great innovation companies and world‑class research universities develop new collaboration approaches.

Our team has grown rapidly over the past five years. We maintain the vibrant spirit of a mission‑driven start‑up while embracing ambiguity and urgency.

This position is located in Columbia, SC, USA. UIDP operates a hybrid schedule; staff work 3‑4 days/week in the office.

This full‑time, exempt position offers a competitive salary. In addition to financial compensation, we provide a generous benefits package: comprehensive health, dental, and vision insurance; a robust retirement plan; generous paid time off; and opportunities for professional development through training, workshops, and mentorship.

* We will review applications as they are submitted, but will not begin scheduling interviews until after January 5, 2026.

• Seniority level:
  Mid‑Senior level
• Employment type:
  
  Full‑time
• Job function:
  Project Management and Information Technology
• Industries:
  Non‑profit Organizations