Strategic Initiatives and Program Manager

The City is seeking an accomplishedStrategic Initiatives and Program Managerto lead high-priority cross-functional initiatives that strengthen organizational performance improve communication and advance strategic priorities acrossEconomic Development and Development Services.

The Strategic Initiatives and Program Manager will play a central role in helping the Cityturn strategy into action. By strengthening coordination between Economic Development and Development Services improving organizational communication and leading priority initiatives this position will help create more efficient internal operations and a more cohesive experience for businesses developers community partners and residents.

About our Organization
At the City we are committed to employing individuals who reflect our communitys diverse backgrounds and this position is crucial in the success and strategic direction of a growing and evolving community. We appreciate and leverage the vast experience individuals bring beyond the technical requirements of a job. If you are an individual with similar experience listed here please consider applying. Experience and skills combined with commitment to our core values is key to building a greater community now and for the next generation.

About our Community

Nestled in the heart of Iowa Cedar Rapids is our vibrant and diverse community known for its rich history culture and natural beauty. Our city has a strong sense of community which can be seen at any of our numerous parks recreational opportunities and family-friendly events year round. You can also explore our thriving downtown district filled with shops restaurants and entertainment options or take a stroll along the Cedar River which runs through the heart of the city.Cedar Rapids - Why you should live here!

Systems Optimization & Continuous Improvement

• Cross-Departmental Workflows: Design implement and evaluate workflows to streamline communication and operational handoffs between Economic Development Development Services and other key City departments.
• Data Management Systems: Evaluate and improve internal data management and communication systems to ensure accurate tracking transparency and rapid information sharing.
• Performance Metrics & Surveys: Responsible for the comprehensive design collection analysis and reporting of survey data to measure program effectiveness and understand private-sector business needs.

• Project Oversight: Assist with development and oversight of key projects and programs ensuring they are delivered on time within scope and aligned with city priorities.
• Quality Control & Partnerships: Partner with other City departments to oversee quality control measures on active projects; manage and evaluate programs implemented by third-party administrators.
• Strategic Input: Assist the department leadership team in strategic planning long-term policy development and the execution of high-priority special projects.

• Fiscal Coordination & Support: Coordinate and process department invoices payments purchase orders and other financial transactions; maintain accurate records and provide administrative support for budget tracking and monitoring.
• Agenda & Materials Coordination: Coordinate prepare and review complex materials memos and resolutions for City Council boards and commissions ensuring a smooth and timely pipeline to regular agendas.
• Executive Documentation & Reporting: Draft review and finalize high-level correspondence briefings technical reports and documentation for internal leadership and external audiences.
• Administrative Strategy: Manage priority task tracking for major initiatives ensuring critical deadlines follow-ups and key deliverables across the departments are met seamlessly.
• Perform related work and high-level administrative tasks as required to advance the departments mission.

Required Education and Experience

• Bachelors degree in public administration business administration or a closely related field; and
• Three (3) to five (5) years of experience managing complex projects budgets or data-driven systems within a municipal or public-sector setting; or
• An equivalent combination of education and experience where one (1) year of relevant experience may substitute for one (1) year of required education.
• Excellent written verbal and interpersonal communication skills
• Proficiency with Microsoft Office
• Ability to work collaboratively with a diverse population

Work Schedule

• Monday - Friday 8:00am to 5:00pm

Equal Opportunity/Affirmative Action Statement
The City of Cedar Rapids is an equal opportunity/affirmative action employer. All job applicants will receive consideration for employment free from discrimination on the basis of race color religion sex (including pregnancy sexual orientation or gender identity) national origin age (40 or older) disability and genetic information (including family medical history).

Applicants with Disabilities
We respect and value people with disabilities and are committed to providing a workplace culture of disability inclusion. People with disabilities are supported during the hiring process and are encouraged to apply for employment with the City of Cedar support of the Americans with Disabilities Act reasonable accommodations will be provided to those in need of assistance with the application and interview process. To request an accommodation contact the Citys Human Resources department by phone at or by email at