Implementation Project Manager

Location Hickory, North Carolina Position Summary Lenoir-Rhyne University seeks a highly organized and results-driven project manager to lead the implementation of a new Enterprise Resource Planning (ERP) and Student Information System (SIS), Ellucian Colleague SaaS. This is a full-time, temporary position with a two-year appointment aligned with the lifecycle of the implementation project. The Project Manager will oversee all phases of the ERP/SIS transition, including planning, vendor coordination, system configuration, stakeholder engagement, training, and post-implementation support. This role is critical to ensuring a successful transition that enhances institutional efficiency, data integrity, and user experience across academic and administrative functions. Essential Duties and Responsibilities Lead and manage the end-to-end ERP/SIS implementation project, ensuring delivery on time and within scope and budget. Develop and maintain a comprehensive project plan, timeline, and milestone tracking system. Serve as the primary liaison between the university and Ellucian. Coordinate cross-functional teams, including Information Technology, Finance, the Registrar’s Office, Admissions, Financial Aid, and other departments. Facilitate regular project status meetings and provide updates to senior leadership. Identify risks and develop mitigation strategies to address project challenges. Oversee data migration, system testing, and quality assurance processes. Ensure effective change management, including communication strategies and stakeholder engagement. Coordinate training programs and support resources for faculty and staff. Monitor system performance post-implementation and ensure successful stabilization. Maintain thorough documentation of processes, decisions, and system configurations. Required Qualifications Bachelor’s degree required (preferably in Management, Business Administration, Information Systems, or a related field). Demonstrated experience managing large-scale projects. Strong organizational, leadership, and communication skills. Proven ability to manage complex, multi-stakeholder projects. Experience working with cross-functional teams and external vendors. Ability to work on-site at the Hickory, NC campus. Preferred Qualifications Experience in higher education (college or university setting). Familiarity with ERP/SIS platforms used in higher education. Project management certification (e.g., PMP, PRINCE2, or equivalent). Master’s degree in a related field. Experience with change management strategies and user adoption initiatives. Knowledge, Skills and Abilities Strong project planning and execution capabilities. Excellent problem-solving and decision-making skills. Ability to manage competing priorities and deadlines. High level of attention to detail and organizational discipline. Strong interpersonal skills with the ability to build consensus across diverse groups. Proficiency with project management tools and methodologies. Appointment Type Position Type: Full-time, temporary (2-year term). Work Environment: In-person on the Hickory campus. Expected Start Date: ASAP. Application Process Resume Cover letter Three professional references Visa Sponsorship Visa sponsorship is not available for this position. Non-Discrimination and Equal Opportunity Policy Lenoir-Rhyne University is committed to providing a workplace and educational environment that is free from discrimination, harassment, and retaliation. We do not discriminate on the basis of race, religion, color, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, gender expression, national origin, physical or mental disability, age, marital status, pregnancy, veteran status, or any other characteristic protected by applicable law. Our inclusive environment is rooted in the Lutheran tradition of fostering wisdom, nurturing vocation, and preparing students for lives of purpose while serving the common good. #J-18808-Ljbffr