Program Director - Mainframe Optimization & Delivery- (ISV migrations and software swaps)

Role Description

We are seeking a Program Director to lead strategic client engagements focused on mainframe optimization, program delivery, and pre-sales solutioning. This role combines deep technical expertise with consultative leadership, helping clients modernize legacy environments, improve operational efficiency, and achieve transformational outcomes.

You will serve as a trusted advisor to clients, guiding them through complex technical decisions and delivering high-impact programs. You’ll also collaborate closely with Sales, Solution Architects, and Delivery teams to shape solutions, define roadmaps, and ensure successful execution.

Key Responsibilities

• Act as a Program Director and technical advisor to clients, providing strategic guidance on mainframe optimization, modernization, and transformation initiatives.
• Lead end-to-end program delivery, including planning, execution, governance, and stakeholder management across multiple concurrent engagements.
• Provide Project/Program Management for delivery of projects.
• Support pre-sales activities by contributing to solution design, scoping, proposal development, and client presentations.
• Develop and maintain program plans, timelines, budgets, and resource allocations using tools such as Jira, Asana, MS Project, and Smartsheet.
• Collaborate with cross-functional teams to ensure seamless delivery of technical solutions, including installation, testing, and implementation of mainframe systems and software.
• Drive continuous improvement across mainframe environments (z/OS, tape management, scheduling, security, monitoring, etc.) through automation, cost optimization, and performance tuning.
• Translate complex technical concepts into business value for non-technical stakeholders.
• Conduct post-project reviews and implement lessons learned to improve future engagements.
• Mentor junior consultants and contribute to internal knowledge sharing and thought leadership.
• Ensure compliance with technical standards, industry best practices, and client-specific requirements.

Qualifications

• 10+ years of experience in technology consulting, program management, or enterprise IT delivery.
• Deep understanding of mainframe technologies and operations (z/OS, scheduling tools, tape management, etc.).
• Proven experience leading large-scale optimization or transformation programs.
• Strong background in client engagement, solutioning, and pre-sales support.
• Proficiency with project and program management tools (Jira, Asana, MS Project, Smartsheet).
• Excellent communication, presentation, and stakeholder management skills.
• Bachelor’s degree in Computer Science, Engineering, or related field (PMP or Agile certification is a plus).

Preferred Qualifications

• Experience in managed services or hybrid IT environments.
• Strategic thinker with a proactive approach to problem-solving.
• Comfortable working in fast-paced, dynamic environments.
• Skilled at building trust and long-term relationships with clients.
• Familiarity with cloud integration and modernization strategies for legacy systems.

Benefits

• Unlimited Paid Days Off
• Three health plan options through Blue Cross Blue Shield
• 401k with company match
• Eligibility for dental, vision, short and long-term disability, life and AD&D coverage, and flexible spending accounts
• Paid Maternity Leave, Paternity Leave, and Sabbatical Leave
• Education Reimbursement, Student Loan Assistance or 529 College Funding
• Enhanced fertility coverage
• Wellness program
• Depending on location, ability to take Flexible work schedule
• Advantage of fitness centers