Lead Academic Program Manager (Department Chair), Cloud & Network Engineering

About the role

The Cloud and Network Engineering programs at WGU prepare students for careers in high-growth technology domains. As Lead Academic Program Manager, you will be responsible for these programs from concept through continuous improvement.

Responsibilities

• Conduct market research, competitive analysis, skills and competency definitions, and positioning.
• Define the program roadmap and underlying rationale.
• Lead cross-functional work with subject matter experts, the program development team, and the broader organization to build degree programs that deliver strong student outcomes and labor market relevance.
• Track KPIs including applicants, enrollment, progress, retention, and alignment with employer needs.
• Align cross-functional stakeholders on priorities, decisions, and execution.

Qualifications

• Master's degree in a technical/engineering field (computer science, software engineering, networking, cloud computing, or related).
• In lieu of a master's, a bachelor's degree plus 7 years of directly relevant experience will be considered.
• 4+ years of experience in product management, program management, educational program development, or a closely related role.

Skills

• Proven experience leading cross-functional initiatives—driving outcomes through influence, relationships, and a clear vision.
• Strong analytical skills: proficient with data analysis, able to synthesize insights, and communicate data-driven recommendations to inform decisions.
• Experience managing or developing educational programs, products, or similar complex initiatives with measurable outcomes.
• Ability to navigate process-heavy organizations without letting process stifle innovation.
• Ability to communicate effectively across a wide range of audiences, from students to senior leaders.

Benefits

Full-time regular positions at WGU are classified for 40 standard weekly hours and are eligible for bonuses; medical, dental, vision, telehealth and mental healthcare; health savings account and flexible spending account; basic and voluntary life insurance; disability coverage; accident, critical illness and hospital indemnity supplemental coverages; legal and identity theft coverage; retirement savings plan; wellbeing program; discounted WGU tuition; and flexible paid time off for rest and relaxation with no need for accrual, flexible paid sick time with no need for accrual, 11 paid holidays, and other paid leaves, including up to 12 weeks of parental leave.

Pay

$123,000.00 - $190,700.00

Schedule

This is a full-time, regular position (classified for 40 standard weekly hours) located in Salt Lake City HQ.