Manager, Program Systems & Performance

OUR ORGANIZATION:

Kinexus Group, recognized as one of Nonprofit Times 2017, 2018, 2019, 2020, 2021 and 2022 Best Nonprofits to Work For, is a cutting-edge community development organization with growing initiatives to create an economically thriving Michigan. We are change agents who create solutions for business, workforce, and community challenges to promote economic vitality.  

THE TEAM:

Michigan Works!, a subsidiary of Kinexus Group, is proactive in seeking opportunities to enhance workforce development efforts. The Manager, Program Systems & Performance will implement an evolving list of projects that support workforce development efforts. Key working relationships for the Manager include collaboration with various teams throughout the organization as well as with a myriad of external partners.

WHAT WE EXPECT FROM YOU:

The Manager, Program Systems & Performance will oversee all aspects of successfully delivering assigned grant-funded projects while leading data management, systems improvement, and continuous improvement efforts across programs. This role drives cross-team collaboration to ensure high-quality workforce development strategies that meet the needs of job seekers and employers, while strengthening organizational systems, performance tracking, and accountability.

This position plays a critical role in ensuring that programs are implemented effectively, data is accurate and actionable, and continuous improvement practices are embedded across teams.

WHAT YOU WILL DO:

The Manager, Program Systems & Performance will lead the operationalization of programs and systems, including budget management, performance management, and continuous improvement. This role includes direct supervision of two staff members: Performance Manager and Data Coordinator.

Key responsibilities include:

Project & Program Management

• Work with the Manager, Workforce Operations to implement programs impacting job seekers and employers.
• Plan, direct, coordinate, and implement grant-funded projects in collaboration with internal teams and external partners.
• Ensure compliance with project applications, funding requirements, and all applicable federal, state, and organizational policies.
• Track project expenses to ensure alignment with funding expectations and approved budgets.
• Maintain records suitable for audits, including accurate and timely performance data entry into required systems.
• Prepare and submit required programmatic reports in adherence to reporting deadlines.

Systems, Data, and Performance Management

• Oversee data management systems to ensure data integrity, accuracy, consistency, and accessibility.
• Supervise and support the Performance Manager and Data Coordinator, providing clear expectations, coaching, and accountability.
• Lead the development, refinement, and continuous improvement of data systems, workflows, and reporting processes.
• Monitor implementation and performance against established milestones and deliverables, using data to identify trends, risks, and opportunities.
• Develop and maintain dashboards, benchmarks, and performance metrics to support data-informed decision-making.

Continuous Improvement & Strategic Support

• Lead continuous improvement efforts through evaluation of program outcomes.
• Analyze performance data to identify gaps, efficiencies, and best practices; make recommendations for program and systems improvements.
• Gather feedback from participants, staff, and stakeholders to inform improvements in program delivery and systems design.
• Support leadership by translating data into clear insights and actionable recommendations.
• Stay informed about industry trends, best practices, and emerging tools related to workforce development, data systems, and performance management.

Collaboration & Communication

• Coordinate cross-functional project teams and work closely with leadership to ensure successful program implementation and desired outcomes.
• Ensure effective communication across teams regarding performance expectations, timelines, and system changes.
• Serve as a connector between operations, data, and leadership to ensure alignment and accountability.

MINIMUM REQUIREMENTS: 

• Bachelor’s degree or equivalent combination of education, training, and experience.
• PMP Certification
• Ten plus years of project management experience, preferably in system improvements.
• Experience managing data systems, performance metrics, or continuous improvement initiatives.
• Demonstrated experience supervising or leading staff.
• Strong analytical, critical thinking, and problem-solving skills.
• Strong interpersonal and communication skills, with the ability to collaborate across teams.
• Passion for serving others and supporting community impact.
• Ability to organize, prioritize, and maintain confidentiality.
• Proficiency in Microsoft Office (Excel, PowerPoint), data systems, and virtual meeting platforms (e.g., Zoom, Google Hangout).
• Ability to adapt to change and work effectively in a fast-paced environment.

PHYSICAL REQUIREMENTS:   

• Must be able to lift to 25 pounds at times. 
• Must be willing and able to travel approximately 30% of the time between Berrien, Cass, and Van Buren counties.

WORK ENVIRONMENT:   

• Flexible & Open  
• Periodic telecommute work 

WHAT YOU CAN EXPECT FROM US: 

• A robust Onboarding experience to integrate you into our team.
• Team of Teams training in support of the organizational strategies.
• Job training and development to ensure you are established and growing in your role.
• Cross Operational Meetings with your peers.
• Exceptional benefits. 
• Be a part of transformational change in Michigan.

We have a unique culture that requires us to be BOLD, INSPIRATIONAL, ENTREPRENEURIAL and INCLUSIVE.   We spend more waking hours with each other than we do with family or friends, so finding someone that adds to our culture is extremely important.   It is our goal to inspire positive economic change one person, one business and one community at a time. 

Kinexus Group is an Equal Opportunity Employer/Program. Auxiliary aids, reasonable accommodations and or services are available upon request for individuals with disabilities. Michigan Relay Center: 711 Voice and TDD. Kinexus is a partner of American Job Centers.