Activation Program Management Lead

Description The Activation Program Management Lead is responsible for driving the execution engine of the Branch Activation Program (DeNovos and relocations). This role owns the governance, sequencing, and delivery discipline required to translate strategy into coordinated, on-time execution across all workstreams. Acting as the central orchestrator of timelines, milestones, and dependencies, this role ensures that complex, cross-functional initiatives move forward with clarity, accountability, and urgency. The role is accountable for end-to-end readiness orchestration—ensuring all functions are aligned, risks are mitigated, and launches are delivered successfully. Primary Responsibilities Include Program Governance & Operating Rhythm Stand up and manage the governance structure supporting activation (cadence, forums, decision tracking, escalation paths)Maintain a clear “single source of truth” for timelines, milestones, deliverables, and ownershipDrive structured operating rhythms to ensure consistent visibility, accountability, and follow-through Cross-Functional Sequencing & Delivery Orchestration Develop and manage integrated workplans across all activation workstreams (operations, marketing, field readiness, community, etc.)Sequence activities, manage dependencies, and ensure alignment across teams to enable on-time deliveryEnsure clarity on “what needs to happen, by whom, and by when” across all initiatives End-to-End Readiness Management Orchestrate readiness across all functions leading into launch (milestones, dependencies, deliverables)Partner with Experience/Field Readiness and Activation leads to ensure coordinated executionConfirm all readiness criteria are met prior to key milestones (pre-open, launch, ramp) Risk Management & Issue Resolution Proactively identify risks, gaps, and potential delivery issues across workstreamsEstablish risk tracking and mitigation plans to protect delivery timelines and outcomesDrive issue escalation and resolution—ensuring blockers are surfaced early and addressed quickly Logistics & Program Execution Support Oversee program logistics including timelines, deliverables tracking, and coordination across multiple initiativesSupport execution of key program moments (launch milestones, cross-functional reviews, readiness checkpoints)Ensure operational discipline across all program activities Measures of Success On-time, on-plan delivery of DeNovo and relocation activations Clear visibility into program status, risks, and milestones across all stakeholders Minimal execution friction due to strong coordination and proactive issue resolution High confidence from partners in program discipline, clarity, and follow-through Required Qualifications Qualifications, Education, Certifications and/or Other Professional Credentials 5–10+ years of experience in program management, PMO leadership, or large-scale initiative execution Proven ability to manage complex, cross-functional programs with multiple dependenciesStrong experience in governance design, risk management, and delivery tracking Exceptional organizational skills with the ability to manage multiple workstreams simultaneously Preferred Qualifications Experience in retail banking, transformation programs, or multi-site rollout environments Background in branch operations, market launches, or field execution Familiarity with readiness planning and launch orchestration Leadership & Soft Skills Execution-first mindset: Relentless focus on delivery, timelines, and outcomes Structured operator: Brings clarity, discipline, and repeatability to complex programs Proactive problem solver: Identifies issues early and drives resolution without waiting Connector: Aligns teams and maintains momentum across cross-functional partners To thrive as a colleague at Citizens, candidates must demonstrate a strong customer-centric mindset, exhibit persistence and resilience in the face of challenges, and embrace continuous learning to adapt and grow in a dynamic environment. Hours and Work Schedule: (4 days in office, 1 day remote) Hours per Week: 40 Work Schedule: Monday-Friday Work Location (s): Johnston, RI, Boston or Westwood, MA, Pittsburgh or Philly PA, Cleveland, OH, Southfield, MI, Newark, DE or NYC Pay Transparency The salary range for this position is $123,000-$159,000 per year, plus an opportunity to earn an annual discretionary bonus. Actual pay is based on various factors including but not limited to the budget, work location, and relevant skills and experience. We offer competitive pay, comprehensive medical, dental and vision coverage, retirement benefits, maternity/paternity leave, flexible work arrangements, education reimbursement, wellness programs and more. Note, Citizens’ paid time off policy exceeds the mandatory, paid sick or paid time-away policy of every local and state jurisdiction in the United States. For an overview of our benefits, visit https://jobs.citizensbank.com/benefits . Work Authorization This role is not eligible for new employer sponsored or current H-1 B visa holders. Applicants, including current OPT, L and other visa holders, must be authorized to work in the U.S. without the need for new employer sponsorship for themselves or their spouses now and in the future. Some job boards have started using jobseeker-reported data to estimate salary ranges for roles. If you apply and qualify for this role, a recruiter will discuss accurate pay guidance. Equal Employment Opportunity Citizens, its parent, subsidiaries, and related companies (Citizens) provide equal employment and advancement opportunities to all colleagues and applicants for employment without regard to age, ancestry, color, citizenship, physical or mental disability, perceived disability or history or record of a disability, ethnicity, gender, gender identity or expression, genetic information, genetic characteristic, marital or domestic partner status, victim of domestic violence, family status/parenthood, medical condition, military or veteran status, national origin, pregnancy/childbirth/lactation, colleague’s or a dependent’s reproductive health decision making, race, religion, sex, sexual orientation, or any other category protected by federal, state and/or local laws. At Citizens, we are committed to fostering an inclusive culture that enables all colleagues to bring their best selves to work every day and everyone is expected to be treated with respect and professionalism. Employment decisions are based solely on merit, qualifications, performance and capability. Why Work for Us At Citizens, you'll find a customer-centric culture built around helping our customers and giving back to our local communities. When you join our team, you are part of a supportive and collaborative workforce, with access to training and tools to accelerate your potential and maximize your career growth Posting End Date: 10/31/2026