Senior Program Manager

Bent Ear Solutions (BES) helps organizations maximize their technology and infrastructure investments. We specialize in information and risk analysis, and the deployment and integration of emerging technologies to save lives, protect property, and improve operational efficiency. We're a fast-paced, high-energy team looking for versatile, passionate employees who are committed to our mission and eager to help grow our business.

ROLE DESCRIPTION

BES is seeking a senior-level Program Manager with deep experience leading complex, client-facing projects from initiation through delivery. Experience in public safety, emergency management, law enforcement, or utilities is a plus.

In this role, you will lead end-to-end project delivery for data and technology solutions that support mission-critical operations, including monitoring, analysis, and reporting functions. You will be responsible for building and sustaining trusted client relationships, coordinating cross-functional teams, and ensuring the delivery of high-quality, outcomes-driven solutions.

This position requires strong project leadership, the ability to operate effectively in complex and fast-paced environments, and a high degree of flexibility. Occasional evening and weekend availability may be required based on client needs and project demands.

RESPONSIBILITIES

Project Leadership, Vision & Delivery

• Lead project teams using BES methodologies and frameworks, aligned to the client’s mission and organizational goals.
• Develop and execute work plans, including tasks, timelines, and deliverables, to achieve contracted outcomes.
• Identify opportunities to improve client effectiveness through better use of technology and process.
• Manage teams with diverse skill sets and experience levels, ensuring alignment to scope, priorities, and desired outcomes.
• Own overall project success, including quality, performance, and compliance with contract requirements.
• Oversee the development, review, and quality control of deliverables to ensure client-ready outputs.
• Foster a collaborative, high-performing team environment that encourages accountability and shared ownership of results.
• Provide direction, mentorship, and ongoing feedback to support staff performance and professional growth.
• Build effective, trusted relationships with partner firms operating in the client environment.
  

Client Relationship Management & Engagement

• Serve as the primary client point of contact, building trusted, long-term relationships with key stakeholders.
• Understand client dynamics, organizational context, and leadership styles to tailor communication and engagement effectively.
• Translate client needs into actionable project plans that support engagement, decision-making, and results.
• Set, manage, and reinforce expectations related to scope, deliverables, timelines, and the overall engagement experience.
• Design and facilitate client, stakeholder, and team meetings that drive clear decisions and project progress.
  

Project & Financial Management

• Manage large-scale or concurrent projects by defining scope, allocating resources, and delivering work on time and within budget.
• Track and report progress against scope, schedule, budget, and utilization targets.
• Oversee project financials, including time tracking, invoicing, expense management, and status reporting.
• Develop and maintain project budgets.
• Prepare and submit invoices in accordance with contract requirements.
• Maintain project documentation in accordance with organizational file management standards.
• Manage project and financial risk and assist with developing and implementing risk management escalation protocols.
  

Business Development & Organizational Contribution

• Identify organic growth opportunities within existing client engagements.
• Support proposal development and contribute to broader business development efforts within assigned accounts.
• Provide input on marketing, positioning, and client strategy efforts as needed.
• Contribute to internal process improvement and help strengthen delivery frameworks and organizational effectiveness.
• Identify training needs and growth opportunities for delivery staff and encourage professional development.
• Oversee documentation of lessons learned and knowledge assets to strengthen team and organizational capabilities.

KNOWLEDGE & SKILLS

• Proven experience leading client-facing projects and cross-functional teams in a consulting or similar environment.
• Strong client service orientation with the ability to build trusted relationships and deliver outcomes that meet client needs.
• Demonstrated ability to manage multiple priorities, deliver high-quality work, and keep projects on track in fast-paced environments.
• Strong communication skills with the ability to translate complex ideas into clear, actionable messages for clients and stakeholders.
• Experience engaging with senior leaders and executive-level stakeholders.
• Strong problem-solving skills with the ability to operate effectively in ambiguous or evolving situations.
• Experience with project financials, budgeting, and project management tools (e.g., tracking scope, schedule, and budget).
• Exposure to or interest in Esri technology and/or geospatial consulting environments (preferred).
• A growth mindset with a desire to learn, take on new challenges, and expand capabilities over time.

EDUCATION & POSITION REQUIREMENTS

• Bachelor’s Degree
• Minimum of 5 years of project management experience in a client facing environment 
• GIS experience is a plus
• Familiarity with Microsoft products and Smartsheet is a plus
• Ability to obtain a secret-level security clearance
• Must be located in the Washington, DC area, be able to work onsite at least 70%, and have a willingness to travel