Career Program Lead

Overview

Our client is in search of a Career Pathway Experience Program Lead within their Diversity, Equity & Inclusion (DEI) organization. This role is pivotal in collaborating with business units and Human Resources (including Talent Acquisition, Talent Management, and DEI Business Partners) to design and implement diversity talent pipeline programs.

As a Program Lead, you will spearhead efforts to innovate and evolve programs that accelerate diverse representation across various functions. Your leadership skills, communication expertise, project management, and ability to foster strong partnerships will drive the program’s success.

What will you work on

• Program Planning: Develop annual program and project plans, incorporating recruiting journeys, participant and manager learning and development pathways, key moments, and communication strategies for incoming and current cohorts.
• Participant Engagement: Build strong relationships with program participants and managers to foster a positive environment and create an effective feedback loop. Conduct regular check-ins, monthly meetings, and offer support as needed.
• Partnership Development: Cultivate strong relationships with key stakeholders, including Executive Sponsors, HR partners, and external development partners, ensuring seamless integration of the program into the business.
• Communication Management: Develop and execute clear, accessible communication strategies to keep all program partners well-informed and engaged at every stage of the program.
• Metrics Management: Monitor key metrics aligned with DEI goals, program objectives, and business targets to track and enhance the program’s performance.
• Elevated Experiences: Organize and manage key program moments that emphasize community-building, learning, development, and engagement for program participants.
• Capstone Experience: Design and implement a Capstone experience to commemorate and conclude each program cohort’s journey.
• Mentorship Program: Establish and manage a Mentor program based on feedback and objectives from program participants and stakeholders.
• Vendor and Budget Management: Secure and manage contracts with external service providers and oversee the program’s annual budget.

What you bring

• A Bachelor’s or Master’s Degree in Human Resources, Business Administration, or a related field, or equivalent experience, education, and training.
• A minimum of 5-7 years of experience in project management, preferably leading human-centered initiatives.
• A background in Disability Inclusion, Accessibility, HR, Learning & Development, or team management is highly preferred.
• Proficiency in project management tools like Smartsheet, Miro, and Airtable.
• Strong communication skills, with the ability to craft accessible and impactful written and verbal communications.
• Ability to build trust and influence across internal and external partnerships.

The target hiring compensation range for this role is $45 to $55 hourly. Compensation is based on several factors including, but not limited to education, relevant work experience, relevant certifications, and location.

About Aquent Talent:

Aquent Talent connects the best talent in marketing, creative, and design with the world’s biggest brands.

Our eligible talent get access to amazing benefits like subsidized health, vision, and dental plans, paid sick leave, and retirement plans with a match. We also offer free online training through Aquent Gymnasium. More information on our awesome benefits! 

Aquent is an equal-opportunity employer. We evaluate qualified applicants without regard to race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, disability, veteran status, and other legally protected characteristics. We’re about creating an inclusive environment—one where different backgrounds, experiences, and perspectives are valued, and everyone can contribute, grow their careers, and thrive.