Design Operations Project Manager

RESPONSIBILITIES:
Kforce has a client in Minneapolis, MN that is seeking a Design Operations Project Manager.

Summary:
The Design Operations team enables the Experience Design organization to deliver stronger outcomes and business value by operationalizing strategy into clear processes, metrics, workforce plans, programs, and tooling. This contract role focuses exclusively on driving and supporting cross-functional strategic initiatives, organizational transformation efforts, and related tools within Design Operations.

Responsibilities:
* Lead and coordinate strategic initiatives that advance design maturity, operational excellence, and enterprise-wide priorities (e.g. brand evolution rollout, internal event planning, or management of well-established design programs)
* Partner with senior design leaders and cross-functional stakeholders to define project scope, success criteria, and timelines for strategic programs
* Develop and maintain project plans, track progress and risks, and create executive-ready status reports for strategic initiatives
* Facilitate workshops and working sessions to align stakeholders, resolve blockers, and ensure timely delivery of strategic outcomes
* Ensure compliance with enterprise governance and reporting standards for strategic projects
* Manage design tool governance and related vendor coordination, as needed (performance issues, enhancements, etc.)
Desired outcomes
* Successful delivery of strategic initiatives on time and within scope, with measurable impact on design maturity and operational efficiency
* Clear and consistent communication of project status, risks, and decisions to senior leadership
* Documented improvements in strategic alignment and cross-functional collaboration as a result of initiatives
* Positive stakeholder feedback and adoption of strategic recommendations

REQUIREMENTS:
* 8+ years of project/program management with demonstrated design operations expertise
* Strong leadership skills and demonstrated success in managing up and across
* Proactive problem solving, attention to detail, and organization
* Excellent written and verbal communication
* Proficiency in design thinking methods and design systems
* Strong understanding of agile methodologies and related tools (Jira, Confluence, Dragonboat, etc.)
* Exposure and experience using design industry tools such as Figma and Mural

The pay range is the lowest to highest compensation we reasonably in good faith believe we would pay at posting for this role. We may ultimately pay more or less than this range. Employee pay is based on factors like relevant education, qualifications, certifications, experience, skills, seniority, location, performance, union contract and business needs. This range may be modified in the future.

We offer comprehensive benefits including medical/dental/vision insurance, HSA, FSA, 401(k), and life, disability & ADD insurance to eligible employees. Salaried personnel receive paid time off. Hourly employees are not eligible for paid time off unless required by law. Hourly employees on a Service Contract Act project are eligible for paid sick leave.

Note: Pay is not considered compensation until it is earned, vested and determinable. The amount and availability of any compensation remains in Kforce's sole discretion unless and until paid and may be modified in its discretion consistent with the law.

This job is not eligible for bonuses, incentives or commissions.

Kforce is an Equal Opportunity/Affirmative Action Employer. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, pregnancy, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, age, protected veteran status, or disability status.

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