Information Technology - Program Manager - Financial Services

Location: Downtown Chicago, IL
Work Model: Hybrid – 3 days onsite / 2 days remote
Employment Type: Contract
Pay Rate: $70–$75/hour

We are seeking an experienced Program Manager to lead multiple strategic initiatives within financial risk, regulatory reporting, and data modernization for a leading global financial institution based in downtown Chicago.

This role will oversee complex enterprise programs including modernization of model risk management processes (development, execution, and validation), migration from on-premise platforms to vendor-based SaaS solutions, and transformation initiatives across financial risk and regulatory data environments.

The ideal candidate brings strong leadership experience managing large-scale cross-functional programs in highly regulated environments, with a proven ability to drive delivery on time and within budget.

• Lead and manage enterprise-wide programs focused on financial risk, regulatory, and data modernization initiatives.

• Drive planning, execution, governance, and successful delivery of multiple concurrent projects.

• Partner with executive sponsors, project managers, and cross-functional teams to define scope, milestones, deliverables, timelines, and resource needs.

• Prepare and deliver status updates, risks, issues, and key decisions to Steering Committee stakeholders.

• Develop and manage program budgets, forecasts, and financial tracking.

• Coordinate internal teams and third-party vendors to ensure alignment and execution success.

• Identify interdependencies, risks, and opportunities across multiple initiatives.

• Monitor timelines, issue resolution, and overall project health.

• Ensure compliance with regulatory requirements and support audit-related engagements.

• Improve processes, strengthen controls, and facilitate effective decision-making.

• 10+ years of experience leading large-scale enterprise programs or initiatives.

• Strong background in Financial Risk, Regulatory Reporting, and Data Management.

• Proven success managing multiple complex work streams simultaneously.

• Excellent stakeholder management and executive communication skills.

• Strong leadership, organization, facilitation, and time management abilities.

• Experience managing budgets, forecasts, and resource planning.

• Knowledge of change management principles and performance measurement processes.

• Ability to lead cross-functional teams in fast-paced environments.

• Experience supporting model risk management modernization initiatives.

• Background in SaaS migrations or cloud transformation programs.

• Experience with in banking or financial services organizations.

• High-impact role supporting enterprise transformation initiatives.

• Opportunity to work with senior leadership and strategic stakeholders.

• Hybrid schedule in downtown Chicago.

• Competitive contract pay rate.

Apply today if you have the experience to lead complex risk and modernization programs in a dynamic financial environment.