Standards Program Manager

This position plays a dual role in supporting APCO International’s standards development program and agency training program accreditation. The manager provides leadership and administrative support for standards development activities, serves as a key liaison to committees and work groups, and ensures the accurate management, organization, and accessibility of departmental records, resources, and systems. This role requires strong organizational skills, attention to detail, and the ability to manage multiple priorities in a dynamic environment.

Reports to:

Institute Director

The following are general descriptions of the essential job tasks of the position. Other related tasks may be assigned as necessary and appropriate.

Support and coordinate APCO International standards development projects as assigned, ensuring alignment with organizational goals.

Serve as staff liaison and provide support to standards-related committees, subcommittees, task forces, work groups, and writing groups.

Ensure standards development activities comply with ANSI Essential Requirements and APCO Standards Policies and Procedures.

Maintain accurate and complete records of standards activities, including documentation required for ANSI audits.

Assist in the development of standards-related training materials and resources.

Provide timely updates and reporting on standards program activities.

Represent APCO, as assigned, in interactions with external organizations, associations, and stakeholders.

Manage and coordinate APCO’s Agency Training Program Accreditation (ATPA), including maintaining records, tracking applications and renewals, supporting the review process, and serving as a point of contact for program participants.

Provide administrative and operational support to committees and work groups, including preparing and distributing agendas, minutes, and attendance records.

Maintain committee and writing group rosters, including management within systems such as Higher Logic Workspace.

Manage and track annual Intellectual Property Rights (IPR) documentation.

Respond to member inquiries and provide high-quality customer service to internal and external stakeholders.

Identify and help address member needs and issues related to standards and departmental resources.

Serve as the custodian of departmental records, ensuring all files, materials, and archives are accurately maintained and easily accessible.

Coordinate, update, and manage the department’s Resource Library and related web content.

Maintain electronic files and tracking systems for departmental programs, including Agency Training Program Accreditation (ATPA) and RETAINS subscriptions.

Ensure all records and documentation are compliant with APCO and ANSI requirements.

Manage department communications, including answering and directing phone calls and emails.

Prepare and distribute outgoing correspondence, including email, postal mail, and packages.

Maintain and update databases and systems (e.g., Higher Logic Communities/Workspace, ATPC, Net Forum).

Support basic accounting functions such as purchase orders and invoice processing.

Track departmental projects and support program managers in maintaining accurate records and timelines.

Prepare and submit reports, including meeting summaries, action items, and after-action reports, as required.

Ensure all correspondence and documentation are processed accurately, professionally, and efficiently.

Effectively prioritize and manage multiple projects and competing deadlines.

Exercise sound judgment in resolving issues and supporting customer service needs.

Travel as required in support of meetings, conferences, and events.

Complete special projects and additional duties as assigned by the Institute Director.

Knowledge of standards development processes and compliance requirements (preferred)

Strong organizational and records management skills

Attention to detail and accuracy

Effective communication and interpersonal skills

Ability to manage multiple priorities and work collaboratively across teams

Proficiency with database and collaboration tools

Baccalaureate degree in a related field. An equivalent combination of education and experience that is determined to be directly related to the foregoing specific requirements may be substituted.

Basic knowledge of public safety communications and demonstrable experience in project management and standards work will be considered as key factors to meet minimum requirements.

Preference will be given to applicants with public safety communications training experience or work experience directly related to use of American National Standards Institute policies and procedures