Strategic Initiatives Project Manager

THE ROLE

As the Strategic Initiatives Project Manager, you'll report to the Director of Strategic Priorities. You’ll manage various projects concurrently that are cross-functional and time bound. With a focus on project management, systems oversight, team collaboration, and budget management, you'll ensure the seamless execution of initiatives that positively impact the entire organization. Leading cross-functional teams, you'll navigate project timelines, delegate tasks effectively, and address challenges with agility and professionalism. Your strategic approach to proactive communication with staff and partners will be essential in optimizing project outcomes. You'll manage integrated databases and support team cohesion through active engagement and participation in organizational activities.

At this time, TRAILS Strategic Initiatives are defined as projects that are backed by specific time limited legislative funding. As such, the role is considered to be limited term employment that will not go beyond December 2026. The position is considered a TRAILS team member and will receive full benefits during employment. If a regular, long-term role of interest to the team member becomes available at any point, the team member will be encouraged to apply.  

THE RESPONSIBILITIES

Project Management (70%)

• Lead cross-functional teams to complete concurrent projects within defined timelines, ensuring accuracy and efficiency in all deliverables. 
• Develop both long- and short-term plans for projects, setting achievable targets for milestones, and consistently monitoring progress to ensure adherence to deadlines and organizational goals. 
• Strategically outline project tasks and responsibilities by delegating assignments based on team members' strengths and capabilities. 
• Proactively identify issues and/or risks to management, providing actionable recommendations to optimize project outcomes. 
• Address inquiries and concerns from the project team throughout the project lifecycle, promptly resolving issues to uphold project momentum. 
• Adjust project schedules and targets as needed, demonstrating flexibility and adaptability in response to evolving project needs. 
• Serve as a primary point of contact for project teams, facilitating effective communication and coordination among multiple units to ensure synergy and alignment in project efforts.
• Responsibilities to be determined by candidate experience:
• Monitor and manage budget goals to ensure they’re followed.
• Identify, flag, and elevate potential financial and budgetary risks to leadership.

Systems management (20%)

• Monitor project statuses and updates utilizing systems such as Monday.com and Airtable, ensuring accurate data collection, analysis, and reporting across various project components. 
• Develop and maintain partnerships with third-party resources, including vendors and researchers, to leverage external expertise and resources for project success. 
• Monitor project resources to optimize efficiency and maximize deliverables, maintaining alignment with organizational priorities and resource constraints.

Team responsibilities (10%)

• Attend all staff meetings and retreats, workgroups, and other relevant TRAILS meetings as necessary.

THE PERSON 

Our experience suggests that the following types of professional experiences lend themselves to this work:

• 4+ years of related project management experience required.
• Education (K-12), mental health, or non-profit work experience is highly desirable. 

Our experience suggests that the following types of skills lend themselves well to this work:

• Excellent verbal and written communication skills. 
• Excellent interpersonal and customer service skills.
• Excellent organizational skills and attention to detail.
• Excellent time management skills with a proven ability to meet deadlines.
• Budget management experience, strongly preferred. 
• Strong analytical and problem-solving skills.
• Strong leadership skills.
• Proven success working with all levels of management
• Ability to prioritize tasks and to delegate them when appropriate.
• Thorough understanding of or the ability to quickly learn about the project or product being developed.
• Proficient with office suites (e.g. Google), productivity software (e.g., Monday.com), databases (e.g., Airtable) and related software.

EDUCATION

Our experience suggests the following certifications and degree(s) lend themselves well to this work:

• Bachelor’s degree in a related field, which may include business, education, or public health.
• PMP, PgMP, CAPM, and/or comparable project management certifications highly desirable.
• Applicable experience and competencies may be considered in lieu of formal education.

COMPENSATION

The salary range for incoming new hires that meet the basic criteria for this role is $103,554 - 109,307. The full growth potential for this role encompasses a salary range of $103,554 - 120,813 

TRAILS offers a comprehensive benefits package including medical, dental, and vision as well as a 403B with a safe harbor match and short and long term disability. We offer a generous holiday and paid time off package. 

 APPLICATION NOTES

• Short answer questions:
• How does your past experience align with our organization's mission and the goals of implementing school mental health programs?
• Share an example of a successful project you managed in a previous role, particularly one that involved cross-functional teams and tight timelines. 
• We are only considering applicants who are legally authorized to work in the United States.
• Our job descriptions reflect TRAILS’ assignment of essential functions and qualifications of the role. Nothing herein restricts management's right to assign, reassign or eliminate duties and responsibilities to this role at any time. 
• Please note that TRAILS employees may undergo a background check as performed by our fiscal sponsor, Tides Center. Findings do not automatically exclude candidates from the hiring process, but will be taken into consideration.