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Program Manager Jobs in Kansas City, MO (NOW HIRING)

AI Program Manager

Kansas City, MO · On-site

$140 - $190/hr

AI Program Manager Position Summary We are seeking a strategic and influential AI Program Manager to lead enterprise-wide AI and digital transformation initiatives. This role will partner directly ...

New

Program Manager (Independent Contractor) Duration: 6-12-months (possibility of extension) Employment Type: Independent Contractor (1099) Department: Hardware, Technical Services Point of Contact:

Licensed Program Manager # Licensed Program Manager5904 E. Bannister Rd. - Kansas City, MO 64134; Flory Center C - Lees Summit, MO 64086## OverviewPosition TypeFull TimeJob Shift1st ShiftEducation ...

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Program Manager information

See Kansas City, MO salary details

$37.5K

$104.7K

$153K

How much do program manager jobs pay per year?

As of Sep 3, 2026, the average yearly pay for program manager in Kansas City, MO is $104,735.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $77,500.00 and $129,100.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is a program manager?

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 does a program manager do?

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 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 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.

How much do program managers make?

Program managers typically earn a median annual salary of around $115,000, with salaries ranging from approximately $80,000 to over $150,000 depending on experience, industry, and location. In larger organizations or tech industries, salaries can be higher, especially for those with certifications like PMP or experience managing complex projects.

What are the top 3 skills of a program manager?

A program manager needs strong leadership and communication skills to coordinate multiple projects and teams effectively. Organizational and strategic planning abilities are essential for managing complex initiatives and aligning them with business goals. Additionally, proficiency in project management tools and methodologies, such as Agile or PMP, supports successful program execution.

What are the most commonly searched types of Program jobs in Kansas City, MO?

The most popular types of Program jobs in Kansas City, MO are:

What are popular job titles related to Program Manager jobs in Kansas City, MO?

For Program Manager jobs in Kansas City, MO, the most frequently searched job titles are:

What job categories do people searching Program Manager jobs in Kansas City, MO look for?

The top searched job categories for Program Manager jobs in Kansas City, MO are:

What cities near Kansas City, MO are hiring for Program Manager jobs?

Cities near Kansas City, MO with the most Program Manager job openings:

Infographic showing various Program Manager job openings in Kansas City, MO as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 67% Full Time, and 33% Contract. Highlights an 67% In-person, and 33% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $104,863 per year, or $50.4 per hour.

AI Program Manager

Ports North

Kansas City, MO • On-site

$140 - $190/hr

Other

Posted 2 days ago

New


Job description

AI Program Manager Position Summary

We are seeking a strategic and influential AI Program Manager to lead enterprise-wide AI and digital transformation initiatives. This role will partner directly with executive leadership to define, prioritize, and execute high-impact AI, data, and technology programs that drive business value, operational efficiency, risk mitigation, and organizational transformation. The ideal candidate combines strong program management expertise with executive presence, business acumen, and the emotional intelligence required to influence diverse stakeholders across a complex organization.

Financial Services experience is highly preferred; however, candidates from other highly regulated or transformation-focused industries will also be considered.

Key Responsibilities
  • Lead the end-to-end delivery of strategic AI, data, and technology transformation programs aligned to business objectives.
  • Partner directly with senior executives and business leaders to shape vision, roadmap, governance, and execution strategies.
  • Drive cross-functional collaboration across business, technology, operations, risk, compliance, and external partners.
  • Establish program governance, success metrics, risk management frameworks, and executive-level reporting.
  • Assess business opportunities, operational impacts, implementation risks, and value realization associated with AI initiatives.
  • Influence decision-making across competing stakeholder groups while maintaining alignment with strategic priorities.
  • Manage complex dependencies, budgets, timelines, resources, and change management activities.
  • Develop executive presentations and communicate program progress, risks, and recommendations to leadership.
  • Ensure AI solutions are implemented responsibly, with appropriate governance, regulatory, security, and operational controls.
  • Identify and resolve barriers to execution while maintaining organizational alignment and momentum.
Required Qualifications
  • 7+ years of program, portfolio, or transformation management experience.
  • Demonstrated experience leading large-scale enterprise transformation initiatives involving AI, data, technology, digital modernization, automation, or business transformation.
  • Proven track record of directly supporting and influencing executive-level stakeholders.
  • Strong executive communication, stakeholder management, and relationship-building skills.
  • Experience developing business cases, value assessments, and risk mitigation strategies.
  • Ability to navigate ambiguity, competing priorities, and complex organizational environments.
  • Strong emotional intelligence (EQ) with demonstrated ability to influence without direct authority.
  • Experience leading cross-functional teams and driving organizational change.
  • Bachelor's degree required; advanced degree preferred.
Preferred Qualifications
  • Experience within Financial Services, Banking, Insurance, Wealth Management, FinTech, or other regulated industries.
  • Familiarity with AI/ML technologies, Generative AI, data analytics, cloud platforms, and enterprise technology environments.
  • PMP, PgMP, Agile, SAFe, or equivalent program management certifications.
  • Experience establishing AI governance, responsible AI practices, or risk management frameworks.
About Korn Ferry

Korn Ferry unleashes potential in people, teams, and organizations. We work with our clients to design optimal organization structures, roles, and responsibilities. We help them hire the right people and advise them on how to reward and motivate their workforce while developing professionals as they navigate and advance their careers. To learn more, please visit Korn Ferry at www.Kornferry.com

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