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Program Manager Jobs in Chicago, IL (NOW HIRING)

VML

Program Manager

Chicago, IL · On-site

Our Program Managers are adept at understanding both the big picture and the granular details, taking ownership of setting and exceeding expectations with internal teams and clients. They possess a ...

Alzheimer's Association

Program Manager

Chicago, IL · On-site

$70K - $75K/yr

This position is responsible for developing, managing and implementing a volunteer-led program strategy for their assigned office service area which includes South Cook County, the southern ...

Nemera

Program Manager

Buffalo Grove, IL

Program Manager provides successful new and existing product introduction through effective utilization of communication, project coordination and people management skills KEY RESPONSIBILITIES ...

CGI Inc.

Program Manager

Chicago, IL · On-site

Program Manager Category: Project Management Main location: United States, Illinois, Chicago Position ID:J0526-0694 Employment Type: Full Time Position Description: Make an impact like never before!

CTSHealth

Program Manager

Chicago, IL · On-site

... new programs as outlines in the company's Strategic Plan * Coordinate with Lead Therapist and Supervise Lead Case Manager (individual and group -PSR/OPT) Oversee administrative office manager ...

Nemera

Program Manager

Buffalo Grove, IL · On-site

Program Manager provides successful new and existing product introduction through effective utilization of communication, project coordination and people management skills KEY RESPONSIBILITIES ...

Nemera

Program Manager

Buffalo Grove, IL · On-site

Program Manager provides successful new and existing product introduction through effective utilization of communication, project coordination and people management skills KEY RESPONSIBILITIES ...

VML

Program Manager

Chicago, IL

Our Program Managers are adept at understanding both the big picture and the granular details, taking ownership of setting and exceeding expectations with internal teams and clients. They possess a ...

CHAMBERLAIN GROUP

Program Manager

Oak Brook, IL · On-site

$102K - $193K/yr

Communicate program status, issues and metrics to the Business Unit * Comply with health and safety guidelines and rules; managers should also ensure compliance across their teams. * Protect ...

Chamberlain Group

Program Manager

Oak Brook, IL · On-site

$102K - $193K/yr

Communicate program status, issues and metrics to the Business Unit * Comply with health and safety guidelines and rules; managers should also ensure compliance across their teams. * Protect ...

Wintrust

Program Manager

Rosemont, IL

The Program Manager is responsible for driving the bank's intelligent automation initiatives from vision through to delivery. The role holder will own the end-to-end roadmap, guide the team, and work ...

Wintrust

Program Manager

Rosemont, IL · On-site

The Program Manager is responsible for driving the bank's intelligent automation initiatives from vision through to delivery. The role holder will own the end-to-end roadmap, guide the team, and work ...

Onco360

LDD Program Manager

Woodridge, IL · Remote

$80K/yr

Onco360 is looking for an LDD Program Manager to join our team. Onco360 Pharmacy is a unique oncology pharmacy model created to serve the needs of community, oncology and hematology physicians ...

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All JobsProgram Manager JobsProgram Manager Jobs in Chicago, IL

Program Manager information

See Chicago, IL salary details

$39.7K

$110.7K

$161.7K

How much do program manager jobs pay per year?

As of Jun 10, 2026, the average yearly pay for program manager in Chicago, IL is $110,700.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $81,900.00 and $136,500.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What are program managers?

Program managers are professionals responsible for overseeing multiple related projects within an organization, ensuring they align with strategic goals and deliver expected outcomes. They coordinate the efforts of project managers, manage resources, set priorities, and address risks and issues that arise across the program. Unlike project managers who focus on individual projects, program managers take a broader view, ensuring that all projects within a program work together effectively to achieve long-term business objectives.

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

To thrive as a Program Manager, you need strong project management skills, strategic planning abilities, and a relevant degree, often supported by certifications like PMP or Agile. Familiarity with tools such as Microsoft Project, Jira, or Asana is essential for tracking progress and managing resources. Exceptional communication, leadership, and problem-solving skills help you motivate teams and navigate complex stakeholder environments. These competencies ensure that programs are delivered on time, within scope, and aligned with organizational goals.

What are some common challenges Program Managers face when coordinating cross-functional teams?

Program Managers often encounter challenges such as aligning priorities across diverse teams, managing conflicting stakeholder expectations, and ensuring clear communication among departments with different workflows. Navigating these challenges requires strong negotiation and problem-solving skills, as well as the ability to build consensus and foster collaboration. Successful Program Managers proactively establish regular check-ins, promote transparency, and adapt strategies to keep projects on track and maintain team engagement.

What Is the Job of a Program Manager?

The job of a program manager is to plan, organize, and coordinate management programs or external programs for a business or institution. As a program manager, your duties vary depending on the type of organization for which you work, but many of the responsibilities for this role are similar or overlap. You typically supervise numerous associates and analysts who help prepare data and assessments about current programming and how it can be improved. You help to implement new programs for employees or customers and promote them through HR or outreach coordinators and marketing professionals. You also assess individual projects and how they interact with one another.

What is the difference between Program Manager vs Project Coordinator?

AspectProgram ManagerProject Coordinator
CredentialsTypically requires a bachelor’s degree, PMP or similar certifications often preferredUsually requires a bachelor’s degree; certifications like CAPM are common
Work EnvironmentOversees multiple projects within a program, strategic focusSupports project teams, handles administrative tasks
Employer & Industry UsageUsed across industries like IT, construction, healthcareCommon in similar industries, supporting project execution

The Program Manager focuses on managing multiple related projects to achieve strategic goals, while the Project Coordinator supports individual projects with administrative and logistical tasks. Both roles require coordination skills, but the Program Manager has a broader, strategic scope.

More about Program Manager jobs
What are the most commonly searched types of Program jobs in Chicago, IL? The most popular types of Program jobs in Chicago, IL are:
What are popular job titles related to Program Manager jobs in Chicago, IL? For Program Manager jobs in Chicago, IL, the most frequently searched job titles are:
What job categories do people searching Program Manager jobs in Chicago, IL look for? The top searched job categories for Program Manager jobs in Chicago, IL are:
What cities near Chicago, IL are hiring for Program Manager jobs? Cities near Chicago, IL with the most Program Manager job openings:
Program Manager jobs near you
Program Manager

Program Manager

VML

Chicago, IL • On-site

Full-time

Posted 14 days ago

Job description

Who We Are
VML, part of WPP, is a leading creative company that combines brand experience, customer experience, and commerce, creating connected brands to drive growth. VML is celebrated for its innovative and human first, award-winning work for blue chip client partners including AstraZeneca, Colgate-Palmolive, Dell, Ford, Microsoft, Nestlé, The Coca-Cola Company, and Wendy's. The agency is recognized by the Forrester Wave™ Reports, as a Leader among Marketing Creative and Content Service Providers, Commerce Services, Global Digital Experience Services, Global Marketing Services and, most recently, Marketing Measurement & Optimization. In addition, VML's specialist health network, VML Health, is one of the world's largest and most awarded health agencies. VML's global network is powered by 26,000 talented people across 55+ markets, with principal offices in Kansas City, New York, Detroit, London, São Paulo, Shanghai, Singapore, and Sydney.
About WPP
WPP is the trusted growth partner for the world's leading brands. We unite cutting-edge media intelligence and data solutions, world-class creativity, next-generation production, transformative enterprise solutions and expert strategic counsel in a single company - powered by exceptional talent and our agentic marketing platform, WPP Open, to help our clients navigate change, capture opportunity and deliver transformational growth. For more information, visit WPP.com.
Who we're looking for:
VML is seeking a Program Manager to work on the Commerce team of one of our largest global clients in the beverage industry. Our Program Managers are adept at understanding both the big picture and the granular details, taking ownership of setting and exceeding expectations with internal teams and clients. They possess a deep understanding of how to strategically manage and negotiate trade-offs to consistently deliver results on time, within budget, and aligned with agreed objectives. They have extensive experience managing full campaign lifecycles, from initial scoping to final delivery, and confidently navigate and prioritize business needs, resource allocation, scheduling, and financial considerations to ensure the successful execution of all project aspects. This individual will be instrumental in supporting one of our largest clients, overseeing their integrated marketing programs within the commerce landscape, including TV, print, radio, social media, and display initiatives.
What you'll do:
  • Work | Spearhead the delivery of exceptional work that is delivered on time and within budget, and pushes creative boundaries. Oversee the end-to-end delivery and execution of large-scale, integrated projects. Proactively identify dependencies and mitigate the impact of potential delays. Drive alignment on scope, schedule, assumptions, and pricing for projects, effectively translating these into compelling Client Proposals and Statements of Work.
  • People | Inspire, mentor, and direct cross-functional teams to produce award-winning work. Partner with Account Management to strategically manage scope, cultivate client relationships, and identify new business opportunities. Foster a collaborative 'One Team' approach, integrating account management, creative, production, content/social, finance, and client representatives.
  • Process | Define, implement, and optimize project/program communication and processes. Expertly balance opportunities and constraints within complex projects. Champion the use of existing tools and processes to effectively monitor team performance and project progress, while also identifying and implementing process improvements.
  • Financials | Take ownership of project estimation, financial planning, and profitability. Develop detailed project plans that align with budgetary requirements and maximize ROI.

Who you are:
  • Strategic Leader | Influences and inspires teams without direct authority, fostering a culture of shared accountability and excellence. Drives projects from initial ambiguity to clear, actionable strategies. Possesses an innate ability to marshal resources, galvanize teams, and usher innovative ideas.
  • Builder | Expertly navigates the complexities of people, processes, and systems to drive seamless collaboration. Demonstrates an entrepreneurial mindset coupled with a strong business acumen. Proactively brings people together to achieve common goals and build lasting relationships.
  • Detail-Oriented | Exhibits a sharp attention to detail balanced with the ability to see the big picture and drive strategic initiatives. Create team environments that are collaborative, comfortable, and encouraging, fostering a culture of continuous improvement and innovation.
  • Exceptional Communicator | Possesses excellent communication, presentation, and analytical skills. Proactively identifies and resolves challenges, demonstrating a 'yes, and why not' attitude.

What you'll need:
  • 5-7+ years of experience managing complex, integrated marketing projects in an agency or consulting environment, with a proven track record of success.
  • Demonstrated ability to lead and mentor project teams, fostering a collaborative and high-performance environment.
  • Exceptional problem-solving skills, with the ability to think critically and strategically to overcome challenges.
  • Proven ability to lead team and client meetings, tailoring communications to diverse audiences (technology, creative, finance, client, or vendor).
  • Ability to thrive in a fast-paced, dynamic environment and meet high standards for quality and accuracy under tight deadlines.
  • Deep passion for the marketing and advertising industry, with a strong desire to learn the inner workings of the business and contribute to the team's success.
  • Exceptional scoping and project management skills, with the ability to accurately estimate project timelines, prioritize tasks, and manage multiple projects with minimal supervision.
  • Superior communication and interpersonal skills, with the ability to build strong relationships with clients, vendors, and internal teams.

The base salary range for this position at the time of this posting is indicated below. Individual compensation varies based on job-related factors, including location, business needs, level of responsibility, experience, and qualifications. We offer a competitive benefits package, click WPP Benefits for more details.
$60,000-$140,000 USD
We believe the best work happens when we're together, fostering creativity, collaboration, and connection. That's why we've adopted a hybrid approach, with teams in the office an average of four days a week. If you require accommodations or flexibility, please discuss this with the hiring team during the interview process.
WPP (VML) is an equal opportunity employer and considers applicants for all positions without discrimination or regard to characteristics. We are committed to fostering a culture of respect in which everyone feels they belong and has the same opportunities to progress in their careers.
VML is a WPP agency (NYSE: WPP). For more information, please visit www.vml.com, and follow along on Instagram, LinkedIn, and X.
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