Program Manager

Seeking a strategic, highly organized, and mission-driven Program Manager to lead the execution and strategic evolution of our flagship internship and early-career talent program.

The Program transforms individual internships into a shared regional experience – bringing interns together across dozens of companies for shared professional growth, mentorship, and community-building that creates lasting ties and strengthens Buffalo's ability to attract and retain top talent.

This role is responsible for managing the full lifecycle of the program : operational execution, talent experience, alumni engagement, employer satisfaction, and continuous improvement. You will work closely with students, colleges and universities, employers, ecosystem partners, and internal teams to ensure the program delivers real outcomes and operates as Buffalo's early-career talent engine.

You are equal parts program architect and operator – someone who can zoom out to see the system strategy and zoom in to make sure the details work.

Primary Responsibilities

Program Strategy, Design & Execution

• Own the execution and evolution of the program as a year-round talent system – including extensions of recruitment, candidate preparedness, mentorship, and a digital platform to host it all.
• Translate talent strategy into clear program design, timelines, and participant experiences.
• Identify gaps, friction points, and opportunities across the talent journey and proactively design improvements.
• Ensure the program remains scalable, employer-relevant, and aligned with regional workforce needs.

Talent Experience & Development

Employer Engagement & Recruitment Extension

Platform Feedback & Systems Design

Data, Insights & Best Practices

Cross-Team & Ecosystem Collaboration