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$29.5K

$78.2K

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How much do director of program development jobs pay per year?

As of Jul 15, 2026, the average yearly pay for director of program development in the United States is $78,196.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $53,000.00 and $92,500.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What does a director of program development do?

A director of program development oversees the planning, design, and implementation of programs within an organization. They coordinate teams, develop strategies, manage budgets, and ensure programs meet organizational goals and standards. Strong leadership, project management skills, and knowledge of industry best practices are essential for this role.

What are the typical challenges a Director of Program Development faces when launching new initiatives within an organization?

Directors of Program Development often encounter challenges such as aligning new initiatives with the organization's strategic goals, securing stakeholder buy-in, and managing cross-functional teams with varying priorities. Navigating budget constraints, adapting to shifting market demands, and ensuring programs are both scalable and sustainable are also common hurdles. Successful directors leverage strong communication, project management, and analytical skills to address these challenges and drive impactful results.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a Director Of Program Development, and why are they important?

To excel as a Director Of Program Development, you need expertise in program management, strategic planning, and budget oversight, often supported by a relevant bachelor's or master's degree. Familiarity with project management software, data analysis tools, and compliance systems is typically required. Outstanding leadership, communication, and stakeholder engagement skills distinguish top performers in this role. These abilities are crucial for successfully designing, implementing, and scaling programs that align with organizational goals.

What jobs pay 500,000 a year in the US?

In the US, high-level executive roles such as CEOs, CFOs, and other C-suite executives often earn $500,000 or more annually. Additionally, specialized roles like certain surgeons, investment bankers, and successful entrepreneurs can reach or exceed this income level, especially with bonuses, stock options, or profit sharing. For a Director of Program Development, reaching this salary typically requires extensive experience, leadership in large organizations, and often performance-based incentives.

What is the difference between Director Of Program Development vs Program Manager?

AspectDirector Of Program DevelopmentProgram Manager
ResponsibilitiesOversees multiple projects, develops strategic program plans, manages teams, and aligns programs with organizational goals.Manages individual projects or programs, coordinates resources, and ensures project deliverables meet objectives.
Required CredentialsBachelor's degree often in business, management, or related field; advanced degrees or certifications like PMP are common.Bachelor's degree in a relevant field; PMP or similar certifications are frequently preferred.
Work EnvironmentTypically in corporate, nonprofit, or government settings, involving strategic planning and leadership.Involves project coordination within similar environments, focusing on execution and delivery.

The main difference between a Director Of Program Development and a Program Manager lies in scope and strategic focus. The Director oversees multiple programs and aligns them with organizational goals, while the Program Manager handles specific projects within those programs. Both roles require similar credentials and work in comparable environments, but the Director's role is more strategic and leadership-oriented.

How much do program directors make in the US?

Program directors in the US typically earn an average salary ranging from $70,000 to $130,000 annually, depending on the industry, experience, and location. Senior or specialized program directors may earn higher salaries, especially in large organizations or competitive sectors.

What kind of jobs in media bring in $150,000 a year?

In media, roles such as senior producers, media executives, and content directors often earn $150,000 or more annually, especially with extensive experience, leadership skills, and industry connections. Positions in large organizations or those overseeing multiple projects tend to have higher compensation, often requiring advanced degrees or specialized skills in management, editing, or digital platforms.
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Director Of Program Development jobs near you
Infographic showing various Director Of Program Development job openings in the United States as of July 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% As Needed, 83% Full Time, 14% Part Time, and 2% Contract. Highlights an 92% Physical, 2% Hybrid, and 6% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $78,196 per year, or $37.6 per hour.

Director, Program Management

Abrazo Group

Elk Grove Village, IL • On-site

$150K - $170K/yr

Other

Posted 12 days ago

Job description

Our client, a leading gaming and entertainment products company in Elk Grove Village, IL is seeking a Director of Program Management to lead complex product development, manufacturing launch, and retail readiness programs.


As the company continues to expand its product portfolio and manufacturing operations, they are seeking an experienced Director of Program Management to lead enterprise wide program execution across engineering, manufacturing, operations, supply chain, and new product introduction.


This leader will own the PMO function, ensuring complex product development programs move efficiently from concept through production launch while maintaining alignment across engineering, manufacturing, quality, procurement, operations, and executive leadership.


The ideal candidate comes directly from an automotive manufacturing environment, bringing extensive experience leading Program Management or PMO organizations responsible for new product launches, manufacturing readiness, supplier coordination, and cross functional execution.


This is a mandatory onsite leadership position located in greater Chicago, Illinois.


Ideal Background


We are specifically seeking candidates with leadership experience from:

  • Automotive OEM manufacturing
  • Tier 1 automotive suppliers
  • Automotive Program Management Office (PMO)
  • Manufacturing Operations
  • New Product Introduction (NPI)
  • Vehicle or product launch management
  • High volume manufacturing
  • Coupled with SDLC or Software Development


Ideal employers include organizations such as Ford, GM, Stellantis, Toyota, Honda, Rivian, Tesla, Lucid, Magna, Bosch, Denso, Lear, Aptiv, Adient, ZF, or similarly complex manufacturing organizations.


Preferred Qualifications


  • 10+ years leading complex manufacturing programs within automotive manufacturing
  • Experience managing enterprise PMO organizations or large cross functional program portfolios
  • Expertise in APQP, PPAP, FMEA, Control Plans, Change Management, Production Launch, and Manufacturing Readiness
  • Strong knowledge of engineering change management and supplier launch coordination
  • Experience partnering with Manufacturing, Engineering, Supply Chain, Quality, and Operations leadership
  • Demonstrated success improving PMO processes, governance, and launch execution
  • Bachelor's degree in Engineering, Manufacturing, Operations, Supply Chain, or related field
  • PMP certification preferred but not required


Who will be successful


The ideal candidate is a hands on manufacturing leader who thrives in fast paced product development environments. They know how to bring structure, accountability, and execution discipline to complex manufacturing organizations while partnering effectively with engineering, operations, and executive leadership. They understand that successful product launches depend on aligning engineering, manufacturing, suppliers, quality, and production long before the first unit reaches the production floor.


Education


Bachelor’s degree in Engineering, Operations, Supply Chain, Business, Product Development, or a related field is preferred. Equivalent hands on experience in manufacturing leadership, product launch, technical program management, or operations leadership will also be considered.


Why This Role Matters


This role is critical to bringing complex entertainment products to market with stronger alignment, better launch discipline, and cleaner execution. The Director of Program Management will help connect creative product development with manufacturing reality, ensuring new products are launched on time, with clear ownership, quality, and readiness across the organization.


This is a full time, onsite leadership opportunity located in Elk Grove Village, Illinois, offering a competitive base salary range of $150,000 - $170,000, comprehensive benefits, and the opportunity to help shape the future of a growing manufacturing organization.

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