Manager, UNITE Program
This position requires an in-office presence four (4) days per week at Georgia Power Company (GPC) Headquarters, Atlanta, GA 30308 location.
About the UNITE Program
UNITE is an elective, member-supported and funded operational enterprise, whose lead participants are C-suite information technology leaders. UNITE provides facilitated connections among its members to address complex business and technology challenges. It offers a forum for members to connect and share knowledge and insights on innovative, best-practice solutions for technology and business challenges.
Responsibilities
- Strategic Leadership:
- Develop and execute the consortium's strategic plan in alignment with member and industry objectives.
- Provide visionary leadership to promote the consortium's mission and values.
- Engage with member executives to understand their challenges and opportunities, ensuring that the consortium's activities are relevant and impactful.
- Consortium Management:
- Facilitate collaboration and networking among member IT departments.
- Coordinate and deliver content in regular meetings, workshops, and conferences to share insights, trends, relevant outside perspectives, and best practices.
- Oversee the consortium's budget, ensuring financial sustainability and effective resource allocation.
- Research and Benchmarking:
- Direct the consortium's research initiatives, identifying key areas for benchmarking and performance improvement.
- Ensure the collection, analysis, and dissemination of benchmarking data and best practices.
- Work with industry experts, research firms, and academic partners to maintain a cutting-edge understanding of IT trends and innovations.
- Synthesize information from benchmarks and surveys to provide actionable insights that drive improvements for member companies.
- Member Support and Engagement:
- Provide guidance and support to member IT departments in implementing best practices and benchmarks.
- Develop and maintain a repository of resources, case studies, and tools for members; introducing technology for ease of information use and access.
- Encourage and challenge consortium members to connect, enabling knowledge sharing.
Requirements
- Bachelor's or master's degree in Information Technology, Business Administration, or a related field.
- 15+ years of progressive leadership experience in IT, with a track record of successful strategic planning and execution.
- Proven ability to facilitate executive-level discussions, build consensus among diverse stakeholders, and influence decision-making without direct authority.
- Ability to engage with and influence C-level executives and IT leaders.
- Demonstrated experience in managing collaborative initiatives or consortiums.
- Demonstrated managerial courage—confidently facilitate discussions, challenge assumptions, and ensure all voices are heard, even in the presence of strong personalities.
- Strong understanding of IT operations, service delivery, and performance metrics.
- Excellent communication, facilitation, and interpersonal skills.
- Demonstrated ability to manage ambiguity and make decisions with incomplete information.
- Ability to translate benchmarking and survey data into clear, actionable recommendations that drive measurable improvements for member organizations.
- Willingness to travel as needed to engage with consortium members and attend relevant events.
Preferred Qualifications
- Prior experience in a non-profit or membership-driven organization.
- Advanced certifications in IT management, such as ITIL or PMP.
- Experience in public speaking and thought leadership within the IT community.
About Southern Company
Southern Company (NYSE: SO) is a leading energy provider serving 9 million customers across the Southeast and beyond through its family of companies. Providing clean, safe, reliable, and affordable energy with excellent service is our mission. The company has electric operating companies in three states, natural gas distribution companies in four states, a competitive generation company, a leading distributed energy solutions provider with national capabilities, a fiber optics network, and telecommunications services. Through an industry-leading commitment to innovation, resilience, and sustainability, we are taking action to meet customers' and communities' needs while advancing our goal of net-zero greenhouse gas emissions by 2050.
Benefits
Southern Company invests in the well-being of its employees and their families through a comprehensive total rewards strategy that includes:
- Competitive base salary.
- Annual incentive awards for eligible employees.
- Health, welfare, and retirement benefits designed to support physical, financial, and emotional/social well-being.
- Eligibility for additional compensation, such as an incentive program, with the amount subject to the terms and conditions of the applicable incentive plan(s).
A summary of the benefits offered for this position can be found here. Additional and specific details about total compensation and benefits will be provided during the hiring process.