Research Program Manager

Job Posting Organization:
The Gates Foundation is the largest nonprofit organization dedicated to fighting poverty, disease, and inequity on a global scale. Founded on the belief that everyone, regardless of their identity or circumstances, deserves the opportunity to lead healthy and productive lives, the foundation emphasizes diversity among its employees to reflect the global populations it serves. The organization offers a comprehensive benefits package that includes medical, dental, and vision coverage without premiums, generous paid time off, paid family leave, retirement contributions, regional holidays, and opportunities for employees to engage in various community initiatives. The foundation is committed to fostering a workplace environment that supports both personal and professional growth.

Job Overview:
As a Research Program Manager at the Institute for Disease Modeling (IDM) within the Gates Foundation, you will play a crucial role in enhancing the effectiveness of research teams. Your primary responsibilities will involve collaborating with leadership and research managers to define, prioritize, and oversee research projects across multiple portfolios. You will be tasked with effectively communicating the objectives and progress of these research initiatives to a variety of audiences, thereby driving the foundation's goals forward. Building partnerships with stakeholders will be essential, as you will need to understand their objectives and integrate their insights into the management of your portfolios. This role requires a quick adaptation to cross-cutting projects, where you will need to familiarize yourself with the relevant research areas and ensure successful execution of the defined scope and direction. Your passion for the foundation's mission will be vital in propelling its objectives.

Duties and Responsibilities:
In this role, you will manage several research portfolios in collaboration with research managers and deputy directors, ensuring that outcomes are achieved through effective resource allocation, risk management, and progress tracking. You will connect the work of your portfolios to IDM's organizational priorities, ensuring alignment and identifying trade-offs as circumstances change. Engaging with software teams and Technical Program Managers (TPMs) will be necessary to maintain continuity between research needs and the development of modeling tools. You will develop a deep understanding of relevant research areas and current modeling technologies to guide planning, assess progress, and anticipate potential risks. Synthesizing findings and insights will be crucial for informing decisions at the portfolio level and presenting options for leadership consideration. You will design and implement efficient program processes and frameworks to facilitate smooth collaboration across teams and organizational levels. Maintaining work plans with clear milestones and deliverables, you will proactively communicate any changes in timelines or risks. Building and nurturing relationships with both internal and external stakeholders will be essential to ensure the effectiveness of complex programs and partnerships. You will also be responsible for establishing cross-functional communication patterns that enhance visibility and coordination among research teams, software engineers, and leadership, clearly representing portfolio priorities and tailoring messaging for diverse audiences.

Required Qualifications:
The ideal candidate for this position will possess a minimum of a Bachelor's degree, with a graduate degree preferred, and have substantial experience in managing complex or multidisciplinary research initiatives, particularly in the fields of global health and development. A minimum of five years of program management experience is required, demonstrating a proven ability to lead intricate projects and achieve results across multiple initiatives simultaneously. Candidates should have a solid understanding of research processes and best practices, with experience applying these principles to complex programs to meet research objectives. Familiarity with software product or tool development workflows is essential, as is the ability to engage effectively with engineering teams and contribute to discussions regarding requirements and roadmaps. Excellent communication and interpersonal skills are necessary to translate scientific insights into actionable programmatic implications and to engage stakeholders at various levels. Strong analytical and problem-solving skills are required, along with the ability to synthesize complex information, make data-driven decisions, and navigate ambiguity. The candidate must demonstrate the ability to manage multiple priorities and deadlines in a fast-paced environment, showcasing skills in identifying gaps and implementing practical solutions. A commitment to the foundation's mission, values, and ethical standards is also essential.

Educational Background:
Candidates must hold at least a Bachelor's degree, with a preference for those who have obtained a graduate degree. The educational background should ideally be in a field related to global health, public health, or a similar discipline that supports the foundation's mission and objectives.

Experience:
The position requires a minimum of five years of program management experience, with a strong track record of leading complex initiatives and achieving results across multiple projects simultaneously. Candidates should have experience in managing research programs, particularly in the context of global health and development, and should be adept at navigating dynamic environments.

Languages:
While the job description does not specify mandatory languages, proficiency in English is essential for effective communication within the organization and with stakeholders. Additional language skills may be considered beneficial, particularly in languages relevant to the foundation's global operations.

Additional Notes:
This position is a 24-month Limited Term Employment role, with relocation assistance provided to Seattle. The salary range for this position is between $143,000 and $214,400 USD, with higher ranges applicable in Seattle and Washington D.C. The foundation recognizes the high-wage market differences in these locations, with the salary range in Seattle being between $157,300 and $235,900 USD. As a mission-driven organization, the foundation aims to balance competitive pay with its mission. New hires typically fall within the range minimum and midpoint, with actual placement depending on the candidate's skills, experience, and expertise as assessed during the interview process. Employment is contingent upon successful completion of a background check, and the foundation is committed to providing an inclusive and accessible hiring experience for all candidates.