Senior Director of Program Management Corporate Planning

Who we are:  

We're transforming one of the world’s oldest industries with cutting-edge technology and an innovative approach. Backed by top-tier investors and recognized by Time as one of the "best Inventions of 2024" and Fast Company as one of 2024's "Next Big Things in Tech", Electra is scaling rapidly and we're looking for bold, driven individuals to help us reshape the future of iron production. If you're ready to make a real impact in a company that's redefining heavy industry for a cleaner, smarter world, we want to hear from you.

What you will do:

The Senior Director of Program Management will oversee and drive cross-functional initiatives tied to the development of our corporate plan and commercial operations.  This may include, but not be limited to, regulatory permitting, community engagement, ESG alignment, PMO oversight, and the launch and development of new plant infrastructure. This role is critical to ensuring cohesive execution across departments from early-stage planning through construction, commissioning and operations, while also preparing for long-term expansion.

Responsibilities include:

Program Leadership & Execution 

• Lead end-to-end execution of sustainability and infrastructure development programs, including permitting, operational planning, and community engagement across multiple locations. 

• Drive alignment across internal departments (Business Development, Legal, Engineering, Policy, Operations etc.) to maintain program momentum and ensure timely delivery. 

• Apply strong program and project management practices to coordinate interdependent workstreams, manage risks, and ensure accountability to milestones and KPIs. 

• Provide cross functional leadership in transformation scenarios, such as organizational scale-ups, factory turnarounds, and strategic integrations. 

• Manage program interdependencies, track progress against critical path timelines, and escalate issues as needed. 

Permitting Strategy  

• Develop permitting strategies across N.A. and international jurisdictions, beginning with Colorado. 

• Manage the preparation and submission of permit applications, ensuring technical completeness and regulatory compliance. 

• Serve as liaison with permitting agencies and external consultants to coordinate reviews, responses, and final approvals. 

• Monitor and respond to evolving regulatory requirements, ensuring the company remains compliant and proactive. 

Regulatory Interface & Risk Management 

• Interface with local communities and government agencies to ensure alignment of Project and mitigation of any potential roadblocks. 

• Monitor evolving regulatory frameworks across jurisdictions and proactively assess their implications for current and future projects. 

• Identify potential risks and lead the development of mitigation strategies to prevent delays or disputes. 

Community Engagement & Stakeholder Relations 

• In collaboration with the Policy and Operations teams, develop a robust community engagement strategy.   

• Incorporate community feedback and regulatory input into project and site development planning. 

What we need you to bring to the team:   

• Bachelor's degree in environmental science, Public Policy, Engineering, Project Management, Business or related field; advanced degree preferred. 
• 15+ years of experience in program management, project management, project engineering, or Engineering with a focus on plant and factory development. 
• 8+ years of leadership experience 
• Proven ability to lead complex, cross-functional programs from initial concept through successful execution. 
• Skilled in partnering with executive leadership to align functional initiatives with overarching company goals and strategic direction 
• Strong interpersonal and communication abilities, including experience leading negotiations on matters of significant strategic importance  
• Demonstrated agility in operating across multiple disciplines within dynamic and evolving environments 
• In-depth knowledge of environmental permitting and regulatory frameworks across North America and/or international jurisdictions 
• Experience in union environments, with an understanding of labor relations, mergers & acquisitions, and ability to assist in crisis communication during plant transformations 
• Proven track record in managing large-scale infrastructure or industrial projects within highly regulated sectors 
• Ability to work across departments and influence at all levels of the organization 
• Exceptional organizational, strategic planning, and leadership capabilities, with a strong sense of accountability and ownership 

What we want you to bring to the team:   

• 10+ years of leadership experience 
• Extensive experience in program management, project management, or project engineering within clean energy, infrastructure, or advanced manufacturing sectors 
• Proven ability to deliver results in complex, multi-stakeholder environments governed by stringent regulatory requirements 
• Expertise in factory launches, operational transformations, and coordination with regulatory bodies 
• Familiarity with ESG frameworks and sustainability reporting standards, with the ability to support organizational alignment with evolving compliance expectations 
• Experience operating within startups or high-growth environments, demonstrating adaptability and strategic execution 
• Comprehensive knowledge of North American governmental regulations, including NEPA, CEQA, and provincial permitting systems