Program Director Duties & Responsibilities

The role and function of a Program Director includes the following duties and responsibilities:

  • Initiate and set goals for programs according to the strategic objectives of the organization
  • Plan the programs from start to completion involving deadlines, milestones and processes
  • Develop or approve budgets and operations
  • Read reports prepared by managers to determine progress and issues
  • Ensure program operations and activities adhere to legal guidelines and internal policies
  • Keep senior management informed with detailed and accurate reports or presentations
  • Devise evaluation strategies to monitor performance and determine the need for improvements
  • Supervise all program and project managers involved to provide feedback and resolve complex problems
  • Discover ways to enhance efficiency and productivity of procedures and people
  • Apply change, risk and resource management principles when needed

Note that this is not an exhaustive list of Program Director duties and responsibilities. Job functions for specific Program Director roles may vary, depending on the industry and type of employer.