Lead Academic Program Manager, Cloud & Network Engineering

About the role

WGU's Cloud and Network Engineering programs prepare students for careers in high‑growth technology domains. As Lead Academic Program Manager, you will be accountable for these programs from concept through continuous improvement. That means you're as comfortable ideating about a new degree as you are in a data dashboard tracking student outcomes six months post-launch. This is a high-ownership individual contributor role. You'll lead by influence across a complex, matrixed organization -- working with our program development team, instructional faculty, program mentors, marketing, and external partners. Primary Responsibilities Program strategy: Conduct market research, competitive analysis, skills and competency definitions, and positioning. Define the program roadmap and underlying rationale. Program development: Lead cross-functional work with subject matter experts, the program development team, and the broader organization to build degree programs that deliver strong student outcomes and labor market relevance. Post-launch performance: Track KPIs including applicants, enrollment, progress, retention, and alignment with employer needs. Stakeholder alignment: Align cross-functional stakeholders on priorities, decisions, and execution. What success looks like Based on analysis and understanding of key metrics and their underlying drivers, act based on which programs are performing well, which require attention, and proactively identify and address risks or gaps. Our ideal candidate has Proven experience leading cross-functional initiatives-driving outcomes through influence, relationships, and a clear vision. Strong analytical skills: proficient with data analysis, able to synthesize insights, and communicate data‑driven recommendations to inform decisions. Experience managing or developing educational programs, products, or similar complex initiatives with measurable outcomes Ability to navigate process-heavy organizations without letting process stifle innovation Ability to communicate effectively across a wide range of audiences, from students to senior leaders Preferred: Experience with curriculum and/or assessment development Up-to-date knowledge of cloud computing, networking, AI Ops, ML Ops, or adjacent technical fields. Experience with online program marketing, SEO, or digital acquisition metrics