JOB DESCRIPTION:The OpportunityThis role is based in our
Lake County or downtown Chicago locations within
Digital Technology Services (DTS).
We are seeking a proven program leader with a track record of delivering complex, global technology initiatives who is comfortable operating in ambiguous, fast-moving environments.
As the Senior Program Manager, Strategic Programs, you will lead enterprise-scale digital, cybersecurity and AI programs that matter. You will drive execution across modern software development efforts, reduce technical debt, and deliver measurable outcomes within a highly regulated, global environment. You will partner closely with senior business and technology leaders and manage critical stakeholders.
This role is well-suited for a leader with strong program fundamentals and sharp attention to detail.
What You'll Work On- Plan, execute, and manage all aspects of digital programs, including initiation, planning, execution, monitoring, control, and closure.
- Lead project planning, scheduling, tracking, risk management, and status reporting.
- Ensure program compliance with all internal procedures and applicable external regulations.
- Drive resolution through effective cross-functional problem solving, communication, and integration.
- Partner with Project Owners, functional leaders, and management to prioritize work across programs, balancing resource availability, timelines, deliverables, and business priorities.
- Demonstrate agility and flexibility in a fast-paced environment while meeting aggressive program schedules.
- Champion PMO best practices to strengthen project planning, execution, prioritization, governance, and change management within Digital Programs.
- Facilitate Program Review meetings with stakeholders and provide clear, regular executive-level updates.
- Analyze complex business problems, develop alternative solutions, and support leadership in selecting and executing long-term action plans.
- Anticipate future risks and challenges, resolve current issues, and continuously improve based on lessons learned and prior program outcomes.
- Serve as the primary point of contact for third-party vendors and external partners.
- Provide leadership on strategic business initiatives, driving cross-functional teams to achieve agreed-upon milestones and deliverables.
- Maintain accountability for total program scope, budget, timelines, and outcomes, ensuring effective resource utilization across direct and matrixed teams.
- Engage with senior leadership to align program strategies and key decisions.
- Prepare and deliver clear, compelling written and verbal communications for diverse internal and external audiences, tailoring content and style as appropriate
Required Qualifications- Bachelor's degree in computer science, Business, or a related discipline.
- Minimum of 10 years of relevant professional experience managing global cross functional programs.
- Demonstrated expertise with project and program management tools, methodologies, and governance processes.
- Experience working in FDA-regulated environments (e.g., validated software supporting medical, pharmaceutical, or life sciences products) and PCI-regulated environments.
- Proven track record of delivering high-quality, complex programs successfully.
Preferred Qualifications- Experience with AI, cybersecurity and infrastructure is highly preferred.
- Strong technical background in cross-functional program management with demonstrated people leadership, including hiring, onboarding, coaching, performance management, and career development.
- Exceptional interpersonal skills with the ability to influence, negotiate, and align stakeholders at all organizational levels.
- Working knowledge of modern software development methodologies (Agile/Scrum, Kanban, SAFe) and tools such as JIRA and Confluence.
- Demonstrated leadership capabilities with experience building, leading, and developing high-performing teams, including setting clear expectations, providing regular feedback, and supporting growth through mentoring and stretch opportunities.
- Excellent communication skills, including executive-level presence demonstrated through clear, concise, and confident engagement with senior leaders; strong executive presentations, facilitation, negotiation, decision-making, and problem solving; and the ability to synthesize complex information, influence outcomes, and translate strategy into clear direction for teams.
Misc: This is an onsite role at Abbott locations in
IL This is not a remote role/opportunity.
Apply NowLearn more about our health and wellness benefits, which provide the security to help you and your family live full lives: www.abbottbenefits.com
The base pay for this position is $129,300.00 - $258,700.00
In specific locations, the pay range may vary from the range posted.
JOB FAMILY:IT Business Relationship Management
DIVISION:BTS Business Technology Services
LOCATION:United States > Waukegan : J46
ADDITIONAL LOCATIONS:United States > Chicago : Willis Tower Building 233 S Wacker Dr.
WORK SHIFT:Standard
TRAVEL:Yes, 15 % of the Time
MEDICAL SURVEILLANCE:Not Applicable
SIGNIFICANT WORK ACTIVITIES:Continuous sitting for prolonged periods (more than 2 consecutive hours in an 8 hour day), Keyboard use (greater or equal to 50% of the workday)
