ABOUT THE ALLIANCE
The Digital Research Alliance of Canada (the Alliance) serves Canadian researchers, with the objective of advancing Canada’s position as a leader in the knowledge economy on the international stage. By integrating, championing, and funding the infrastructure and activities required for advanced research computing (ARC), research data management (RDM), and research software (RS), we provide the platform for the research community to access tools and services faster than ever before.
We have an ambitious mandate — to transform how research across all academic disciplines is organized, managed, stored, and used. We work with other ecosystem partners and stakeholders across the country to help provide Canadian researchers with the support they need for leading-edge research excellence, research, innovation, and advancement across all disciplines.
POSITION SUMMARY
The Project Manager is responsible to plan, evaluate changes to processes, and implement projects within the Strategic Initiatives portfolio for the Digital Research Alliance of Canada (the Alliance). This position oversees project schedule, quality control, communication, procurement, and reporting throughout the project life cycles and works with project sponsors and teams to ensure successful organizational change. In addition, this position will also support the development of business cases, funding calls and work in conjunction with product owners and Senior Analysts to support portfolio planning. The Project Manager reports directly to the Manager, Project Management Office.
RESPONSIBILITIES
Project Management
- Responsible for planning, implementation, and reporting for projects within the Alliance, including negotiating standards, costs, quality, and stakeholders’ considerations.
- Provide leadership, technical and analytical guidance, and direction to project teams by scheduling; assigning work; and reviewing project efforts to ensure project success; coaching, and motivation to project team members.
- Oversee the management of quality, project scope, schedule, risk, quality control, change control, and budget activities, across all phases of the project life cycle to ensure successful completion within established parameters.
Change Management
- Responsible for the development of project stakeholder interests and issues, change management, and communication plans to help support and effectively facilitate the required changes.
- Develop relationships and rapport with stakeholders.
Portfolio Planning and Management
- Responsible for participating in the development of business cases, funding call proposals and procurement processes where appropriate.
- Coordinate with Product Owners, Senior Analysts and stakeholders to support the development of project timelines, resources, funding calls, etc.
- Provide frequent project reporting and forecasting to PMO and leadership as required.
Portfolio / Project Office
- Maintain up-to-date knowledge on evolving project management techniques and ongoing development of the PMO processes, including appropriate documentation and controls (e.g., plan, budget, risk management, and change control).
- Conduct project post-implementation review and align project value delivery to that of the Alliance's strategic objectives.
QUALIFICATIONS
- Bachelor's degree in computing science, Business Administration, or related discipline.
- Project management experience related to systems and IT management, with 5+ years of experience, including experience in planning and completing large information technology projects, or an equivalent combination of education, training, and experience.
- 5+ years of experience working in or with the public sector and/or academic research ecosystem leading projects.
- Ability to communicate effectively, both orally and in writing, in Canada’s two official languages is an asset.
- Knowledge of project management systems and the development of project management documentation (e.g., project charter, communication plans, RACI chart, risk mitigation, change management plans, and project closure report).
- Knowledge of change management and process documentation – e.g. PROSCI.
- Strong planning, financial management, and team management skills.
- Strong customer service, interpersonal, and communication (verbal and written) skills.
- Excellent analytical reasoning, problem-solving, time management, and organizational skills.
- Ability to negotiate standards, costs, timelines, quality, and other considerations with stakeholders, contractors, and consultants.
- Ability to participate in the preparation of Request for Proposal (RFP) and other contractual documents for the engagement of contractors and consultants.
- Able to analyze business or technical problems and propose and implement solutions.
- Proven leadership, coaching, and mentorship skills.
- Ability to maintain confidentiality.
Professional Certifications/Memberships:
- PMP Certification, PROSCI and/or Change Management Certification are considered an asset.
- Knowledge of ITIL, or similar frameworks, is considered an asset.
BENEFITS / WORK PERKS
In addition to a competitive salary and a rewarding career where you can truly make a difference in the Canadian research community, we offer a comprehensive benefits package that meets the various needs of our diverse team and that spans across Canada, including:
- Comprehensive Benefits Plan, including:
- Health
- Dental
- Long-Term Disability
- Life Insurance
- Flexible Spending Account
- Wellness Spending Account
- Mental Health Supports
- Defined Benefit Pension Plan
- Paid Vacation
- Remote Work – Flex Hours
Please apply here: Project Manager
The Alliance recognizes that challenges remain in achieving the full participation of equity-seeking groups (including women, Indigenous Peoples, persons with disabilities, members of visible minority/racialized groups, and members of LGBTQ2+) in research careers and is committed to identifying and eliminating barriers that may exist within its own hiring process, programs, and practices.