1

Executive Program Director Jobs in Mississippi (NOW HIRING)

Reporting to the CEO, the Executive Director is responsible for the leadership and management of ... This individual will set the vision and direction for the program in Mississippi and will ...

next page

Showing results 1-20

Executive Program Director information

See Mississippi salary details

$11

$22

$35

How much do executive program director jobs pay per hour?

As of Sep 12, 2026, the average hourly pay for executive program director in Mississippi is $22.30, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $16.63 and $24.38 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What does an executive program director do?

An Executive Program Director oversees the planning, implementation, and management of large-scale programs within an organization. They are responsible for setting strategic goals, allocating resources, managing teams, and ensuring that projects meet their objectives and deadlines. This role often involves collaborating with stakeholders, monitoring budgets, and evaluating program effectiveness to drive organizational success. Executive Program Directors play a key leadership role and must have strong communication, organizational, and decision-making skills.

How does an executive program director balance strategic oversight with day-to-day operational responsibilities?

As an Executive Program Director, you are expected to maintain a high-level strategic vision while also ensuring smooth program operations. This often involves delegating daily tasks to experienced managers or team leads, allowing you to focus on long-term planning, stakeholder engagement, and resource allocation. Regular check-ins, performance metrics, and cross-functional meetings are essential to keep programs on track and ensure alignment with organizational goals. Striking this balance can be challenging, but it's also an opportunity to lead teams effectively and drive significant impact across the organization.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as an executive program director, and why are they important?

To thrive as an Executive Program Director, you need extensive leadership experience, strategic planning abilities, and a strong educational background, often with an advanced degree in management or a related field. Familiarity with project management tools, budgeting systems, and reporting software like MS Project or Salesforce is typically required. Exceptional communication, decision-making, and stakeholder management skills set top performers apart in this role. These competencies are crucial for aligning complex programs with organizational goals, ensuring successful execution, and leading cross-functional teams effectively.

What is the difference between Executive Program Director vs Program Manager?

AspectExecutive Program DirectorProgram Manager
CredentialsTypically requires advanced degrees (e.g., MBA), extensive experience in program leadership, and industry-specific certificationsUsually holds a bachelor's degree, with some roles preferring certifications like PMP
Work EnvironmentStrategic leadership in large organizations, overseeing multiple projects and teamsOperational management of specific projects or programs within organizations
Employer & Industry UsageCommon in corporate, government, and non-profit sectors for high-level program oversightUsed across various industries for day-to-day project execution and coordination

The main difference between an Executive Program Director and a Program Manager lies in scope and seniority. The Executive Program Director focuses on strategic oversight and leadership of multiple programs at an organizational level, often requiring advanced credentials. In contrast, the Program Manager handles specific projects, ensuring their successful delivery within scope, time, and budget. Both roles are vital but differ significantly in responsibilities and organizational impact.

What cities in Mississippi are hiring for Executive Program Director jobs?

Cities in Mississippi with the most Executive Program Director job openings:

McNair Scholars Program Director

Cleveland, MS • On-site

Delta State University
Colleges, Universities, and Professional Schools • 501 - 1,000 employees

Full-time

Re-posted 8 days ago


Job description

Posting Details
Position Information
Job Title
McNair Scholars Program Director
Working Title
McNair Scholars Program Director
Position Type
Staff
Department
Grants and Contracts
Posting Number
201201698
Full or Part Time
Full Time
Benefit Eligible
Yes
If Other, Please Explain:
Tenure/Non-Tenure Track
Salary Basis
12 month
If Other, Please Explain:
Position Summary Information
Responsibilities
The Program Director will be responsible for the day-to-day operations of the McNair Scholars Program. The Program Director will report to the Executive Director of Sponsored Programs and Special Projects in the Office of Institutional Grants.
The Program Director will have the authority and responsibility to monitor all
activities and ensure that university and federal regulations, guidelines, policies, and procedures
are followed. The ideal candidate will have knowledge of the target area and its educational and
economic challenges and assets. This position will be responsible for the tasks outlined in the
Plan of Operation (available upon request).
Qualifications
Master's degree required, Master's in a STEM field preferred
Three years of experience in higher education administration, advising, management or counseling Strong knowledge of academic research, ideally with at least one published academic article and experience supervising student research
Experience managing or implementing federal grant funding
Excellent verbal and written communication skills and time management skills
Experience directly advising and mentoring students similar to McNair Research Scholars
Committed to the mission and vision of the McNair Program
Strong preference to a candidate who is a McNair alumnus
Strong preference to a candidate with professional experience in a STEM field
Strong preference to a candidate with experience working in a TRIO program
Salary
Commensurate with experience, qualifications, and university's resources.
Minimum Qualifications
Preferred Qualifications
Special Instructions to Applicants
Additional Information
Posting Detail Information
Open Date
04/07/2026
Close Date
Open Until Filled
Yes