So how do you structure a resume? We can show you with our program manager resume sample. This sample gives you a visual representation to reference when considering how to depict your experience, how much of your history to show, and how to write your accomplishments in a compelling way. Check out the sample below, then read on for tips and guidelines on how to apply the methods in the example to create your own outstanding resume.
Expert program manager providing the structure and leadership necessary to execute corporate program goals. Exceptional critical thinking abilities leveraged to make targeted decisions regarding program direction and outcomes. Skilled at establishing the policies and procedures necessary to seamlessly govern projects under the program umbrella, including providing structure and operating procedures for project managers and junior personnel.
Bachelor of Business Administration (2003)
The University of New Mexico, Albuquerque, NM
Project Management Professional (PMP) (2012)
Project Management Institute
Yes. Each job in the work history plus the details in the summary and keywords make it clear that our example candidate is one step above project management and instead focused on high-level programs that affect key areas of the business, if not the whole business. While it involves project management, it’s more at the level of establishing the framework by which project managers operate as our example jobseeker’s direct reports.
They are! In the most recent role on the program manager resume sample, the job listing details a major internal IT transformation and harmonization program at a global level. The prior job focuses on changing the technology sales organization to achieve better results in adoption of a particular technology. Each one shows a clear strategic goal and a path to execution. Showing the types of programs you’re experienced with can be valuable when presenting your resume to employers seeking to launch similar programs.
Showing your level of budget authority is a great way of telling employers the scope of programs you’ve managed. It’s also a good way to show career progression, such as our sample candidate. In the example resume, the candidate starts off managing a $14M program budget but progresses to managing a $42M program budget. The increase alone shows that even if his title remained the same, his career still progressed on an upward trajectory.
Of course! In the program manager resume sample, our example program manager has led programs that saved $11M, led to a round of 92 new hires, built revenues to $33M, and acquired a number of key clients. Business program leadership is nearly always centered on creating forward momentum and accomplishing core goals; showing the outcomes of those programs in the resume makes it clear that you can define a strategy and then successfully execute it at a top leadership level.
Look at the sample resume. Every sentence starts with a strong action verb: championed, shaped, defined, outlined, acquired. This replaces the common and entirely tired “Responsible for” so ubiquitous in resumes. Ditch the dull language and use powerful verbs at the start of each sentence to create a sense of authority and convey that you were actively engaged in your job.