Job Descriptions

Program Director Job Description

What is the job description of a Program Director? What are the duties and responsibilities of a Program Director? What does a Program Director do?

Job description of a Program Director

Program Director is an administrative professional specialized in overseeing planning, implementing, marketing and evaluating of different programs, ensuring that such programs are carried out on time and within budget.

This Program Director job description example includes the list of most important Program Director duties and responsibilities as shown below. It can be modified to fit the specific Program Director profile you're trying to fill as a recruiter or job seeker.

Program Director Duties and Responsibilities

Program Director job description should contain a variety of functions and roles including:

  • Initiate and set goals for programs according to the strategic objectives of the organization
  • Plan the programs from start to completion involving deadlines, milestones and processes
  • Develop or approve budgets and operations
  • Read reports prepared by managers to determine progress and issues
  • Ensure program operations and activities adhere to legal guidelines and internal policies
  • Keep senior management informed with detailed and accurate reports or presentations
  • Devise evaluation strategies to monitor performance and determine the need for improvements
  • Supervise all program and project managers involved to provide feedback and resolve complex problems
  • Discover ways to enhance efficiency and productivity of procedures and people
  • Apply change, risk and resource management principles when needed

Program Director Requirements / Skills / Qualifications

Program Director job description should include these common skills and qualifications:

  • B.Sc/BA diploma in management or a relevant field;
  • MSc/MA is a plus
  • Proven experience as program director or other managerial position
  • Thorough understanding of project/program management techniques and methods
  • Working knowledge of MS office and program management software (e.g. Basecamp, MS Project etc.)
  • A business acumen with a strategic ability
  • Excellent organizational and leadership skills
  • Excellent Knowledge of performance evaluation techniques and key metrics
  • Outstanding knowledge of data analysis, reporting and budgeting
  • An analytical mindset with great problem-solving abilities
  • Excellent communication skills

As a hiring manager, recruiting an ideal Program Director starts with crafting a good job description. Use this Program Director job description template to save yourself time and help you attract the most qualified candidates. Feel free to revise it to meet your specific needs.

Job seekers interviewing for the role of a Program Director may also reference it in preparation for the interview.