Program Manager

at AKQA

Melbourne, New South Wales, Sydney, Victoria, Australia

At AKQA, our Delivery Discipline sets the standard for program governance and execution, ensuring clients maximise ROI through efficient, high-quality delivery. This is a 12-month fixed-term opportunity for a Program Manager to lead large, multi-workstream initiatives end-to-end, bringing strategic oversight, operational excellence, and financial accountability to deliver measurable business and creative impact.

As a Program Manager, you will partner with senior clients to define objectives, KPIs, and delivery strategies, translating ambition into clear, feasible plans. You’ll orchestrate cross-disciplinary teams, proactively manage risks and dependencies.

At AKQA, you’ll work in an innovative and inclusive environment, surrounded by some of the brightest minds in their fields. You’ll have the opportunity to contribute to our delivery practices and continuous improvement. We operate a hybrid in-studio/WFH model.

ROLE REQUIREMENTS

Lead complex, multi-workstream programs from initiation to completion.
Establish governance and maintain core documentation: roadmaps, financials, risks, timelines, status.
Identify and mitigate risks, dependencies, and blockers; escalate proactively.
Act as central contact across clients, partners, and internal teams.
Own SOWs, estimates, forecasting, and change control; manage profitability and resources.
Translate client goals into pragmatic delivery plans with measurable outcomes.
Report transparently on program health and commercial performance.
Ensure quality and consistent use of AKQA delivery frameworks; coach project managers.

QUALITIES AND CHARACTERISTICS

Champion AKQA’s values, Innovation, Service, Quality, Thought and foster collaboration.
Build trusted relationships with senior clients; act as a strategic consultant.
Guide meetings and decisions with clarity and alignment to goals.
Challenge direction constructively and propose insight-led alternatives.
Connect disciplines to leverage expertise and accelerate outcomes.
Operate with strong commercial acumen and accountability.
Embrace continuous improvement to enhance quality, speed, and consistency.
Anticipate challenges and maintain momentum across complex initiatives.

We believe great work happens when we're together, fostering creativity, collaboration, and connection. That's why we’ve adopted a hybrid approach including required in-office days. If you require accommodations or flexibility, please discuss this with the hiring team during the interview process.

AKQA is an equal opportunity employer and considers applicants for all positions without discrimination or regard to particular characteristics. We are committed to fostering a culture of respect in which everyone feels they belong and has the same opportunities to progress in their careers.