Associate Data Architect (Data Program Manager)

JOB DESCRIPTION
We are seeking a highly experienced and results-driven Senior Program Manager to lead a strategic Finance Transformation initiative. This role will be responsible for standing up and delivering a large-scale, data-intensive transformation program within an agile delivery framework. The ideal candidate will have a strong background in program leadership, exposure to cloud data platforms (e.g., AWS, Snowflake), understanding of end-to-end data lifecycle, and a proven track record of managing complex data initiatives with multiple stakeholders and delivery tracks.

Key Responsibilities:

Program Leadership & Delivery:

• Define the structure, governance, and roadmap for the Finance Transformation Program.
• Lead the end-to-end delivery of a complex, multi-workstream transformation initiative with data at its core.
• Establish and manage program scope, timelines, budget, and quality metrics.
• Drive collaboration across finance, technology, and data teams to ensure delivery alignment with strategic goals.

Agile Delivery Management:

• Implement and champion agile delivery practices across workstreams.
• Coordinate agile ceremonies and ensure alignment between squads, leadership, and business stakeholders.
• Track deliverables, manage dependencies, and remove blockers to ensure consistent delivery momentum.

Stakeholder Management:

• Act as the primary point of contact for senior leadership, including Finance, Data, and IT executives.
• Manage expectations, provide transparent reporting, and ensure alignment across business and technical teams.
• Facilitate executive steering committee meetings and communicate program progress, issues, and risks.

Risk & Change Management:

• Proactively identify program risks and develop mitigation plans.
• Drive change management efforts to support adoption of new processes, technologies, and data models.
• Ensure compliance with data governance, security, and regulatory standards throughout the program lifecycle.

Platform & Technical Oversight:

• Provide oversight and guidance for solutions leveraging modern cloud-based data platforms such as AWS and Snowflake.
• Work closely with data architects, engineers, and finance SMEs to ensure the successful implementation of target-state solutions.

Qualifications:

Required:

• 16-18 years of overall experience with 10+ years of experience in program or project management with at least 3-4 years focused on large-scale data transformation programs.
• Strong exposure to data platforms (e.g., Snowflake, AWS, Databricks) and finance domain processes.
• Demonstrated success in leading multi-track programs with cross-functional teams in agile delivery environments.
• Exceptional stakeholder management and communication skills, including experience presenting to executive leadership.
• Experience with budgeting, forecasting, and managing large program financials.

Preferred:

• PMP, SAFe, or Agile certification.
• Experience in data cloud modernization and transformation space.
• Familiarity with modern data architecture principles and tools (e.g., data lakes, data mesh, ELT/ETL pipelines, BI, AI/ML).
• Prior experience in a consulting or large enterprise environment.

Key Competencies:

• Strategic thinking and problem-solving
• Influencing and negotiation skills
• Detail-oriented execution under pressure
• Collaboration and team leadership
• Change leadership and adaptability
• Strong communication skills