33 Senior Program Manager Interview Questions & Answers
Below is a list of our Senior Program Manager interview questions. Click on any interview question to view our answer advice and answer examples. You may view 12 answer examples before our paywall loads. Afterwards, you'll be asked to upgrade to view the rest of our answers.
Behavioral
1. What types of individuals do you seek out as mentors?
Why the Interviewer Asks This Question
This is a behavioral question aimed at understanding your learning preferences. Interviewers are interested to know that a candidate is concerned with professional growth and understands the value of learning from others.
Written by Karrie Day on June 25th, 2022
Remember To
Remember to describe a response that demonstrates comfort with identifying and working with mentors autonomously. While your management may be able to provide guidance, a senior program manager should be able to identify growth opportunities and identify individuals who can assist them as mentors.
Written by Karrie Day on June 25th, 2022
Answer Example
"I believe that anyone can be a mentor to me at any time. There is always something to learn by observing practices that work well or fail for individuals. My approach to seeking a formal mentor is to find someone with the ability to challenge my thinking and offer insight. I appreciate learning to think from perspectives outside of my own because it helps me to anticipate the needs of others when delivering solutions."
Written by Karrie Day on June 25th, 2022
Behavioral
2. Senior program managers at our company are expected to operate with minimal guidance. How do you feel about working mostly autonomously?
Why the Interviewer Asks This Question
Many companies ask their senior program managers to hit the ground running and take action with limited guidance. Interviewers ask this question to determine if a candidate is comfortable working in this type of environment.
Written by Karrie Day on June 25th, 2022
Remember To
Remember to describe how you typically handle situations in which you do need guidance or support. Candidates that can demonstrate initiative during times of uncertainty are valued.
Written by Karrie Day on June 25th, 2022
Answer Example
"I am very comfortable working autonomously. I am known for taking my assignments and running with them. I work with my senior leaders for guidance at the beginning of a new project or program and then follow through on my commitments to the best of my ability. When needed, I do research, or reach out to subject matter experts for help. I lean on my many years of experience and my intuition to know when to ask for managerial support."
Written by Karrie Day on June 25th, 2022
Discovery
3. Our program managers work alongside our sales and business development team to seek new business opportunities. What experience do you have driving sales or new business contracts?
Why the Interviewer Asks This Question
Some senior program managers work for companies that sell the products developed by the teams within the programs they have responsibility for. Interviewers ask this question when they expect that a senior program manager will play a key role in driving or supporting the sales process of these products.
Written by Karrie Day on June 25th, 2022
Remember To
Remember to describe your experience working to drive new opportunities with internal stakeholders if you do not have experience in sales. While the specifics of the processes are different, interviewers understand that similar concepts and skills can be leveraged in an internal setting.
Written by Karrie Day on June 25th, 2022
Answer Example
"I currently work for a consulting firm that offers business and technology solutions. I support out sales team from time to time when a complex solution is required, and they need additional support working with the client. Once a contract is signed and a new program of work is in flight, I work with the senior clients on the contract on a regular basis. I uncover new opportunities in these meetings all the time and I work to help scope them out and provide estimates. I also reach back out after the completion of our contract to ensure my clients are satisfied and determine if they have any additional needs."
Written by Karrie Day on June 25th, 2022
Discovery
4. What strategic planning techniques do you have experience facilitating?
Why the Interviewer Asks This Question
Strategic planning is a key skillset for a senior program manager. Interviewers ask this question to assess the depth of a candidate's expertise in this area.
Written by Karrie Day on June 25th, 2022
Remember To
Remember to include an example of your ability to identify 'thematic business problems' within your response. You should be able to then clearly demonstrate how you are able to transform those problems into strategic plans for resolution.
Written by Karrie Day on June 25th, 2022
Answer Example
"I have experience working with business stakeholders to facilitate SWOT analysis sessions. In these sessions, we develop lists of strengths, weaknesses, opportunities, and threats and then determine their impact on the business. I have also worked with the OKR model to develop objectives and key results. This model is useful for helping me develop the key performance indicators for the products I am responsible for.
Additionally, my background as an analyst helps me to understand how to analyze large data sets and look for themes and trends that suggest various operational problems exist within an organization. From there, I partner with various subject matter experts to drive out strategic plans for resolution. I ensure these plans specifically aim to resolve the identified issues and contribute to the business goals relevant to the initiatives we are working on."
Written by Karrie Day on June 25th, 2022
Discovery
5. We strive to hire top talent. What are some ways you feel you can help us raise the bar?
Why the Interviewer Asks This Question
Many companies seek candidates that bring a specific set of talents that will complement their new team in such a way that they are able to perform at a higher level after the candidate is hired. Interviewers who ask this question seek candidates with talents that are complimentary and in direct alignment with the needs of their team.
Written by Karrie Day on June 25th, 2022
Remember To
Remember to highlight any applicable talents or behaviors you have that are unique or difficult to find in candidates. Offering value that sets you apart from other candidates could raise your chances of being hired.
Written by Karrie Day on June 25th, 2022
Answer Example
"I am a trained facilitator and I specialize in team performance consulting. I am able to foster trust and leadership within teams and neutrally negotiate ways forward that transcend conflicts and generate higher levels of information sharing and overall performance.
I am also a hybrid personality type. I am able to connect with extroverts, introverts, and those that process information in a variety of ways. I can analyze detailed information and synthesize it to develop a big-picture view. This blend of skills helps me to hold a more holistic perspective and serve as a bridge between people and ideas that are both tactical and strategic in nature. I am not always the person with the best idea, but I am great at bridging the best ideas together to develop exceptional transformation strategies."
Written by Karrie Day on June 25th, 2022
Discovery
6. Describe an operational efficiency a team you led as a program manager was responsible for.
Why the Interviewer Asks This Question
Operational efficiencies free capital and other resources for investment in other areas of a business. Companies strive to work as efficiently as possible to allow as much of their resources to be focused on their mission and goals as possible. Interviewers ask this question to ensure the candidate they select has experience identifying and implementing these value-add opportunities.
Written by Karrie Day on June 25th, 2022
Remember To
Remember to clearly describe the problem state, what specifically you did to resolve the problem, and the operational impact your solution had. The STAR (Situation, Task, Action, Result) model works well for this question.
Written by Karrie Day on June 25th, 2022
Answer Example
"I supported a business stakeholder group that worked in a 24x7 mission-critical operations environment. Our company began adopting ITIL standards to streamline a number of workflows, and I asked to be included in the certification process. I felt I would be able to better serve our clients if we implemented higher-quality application support procedures. My teams were currently resolving incidents that should have been easily addressed by the customer themselves, or by our tier one support group. The engineers and analysts on my teams were frustrated because our time was better served developing new solutions to drive sales and business operations.
We implemented ServiceNow for incident management and I led our team's efforts to define our queues, develop our knowledgebase documentation, and define the experience for end-users who wanted to report their own incidents. Our previous self-service incident management tool was difficult for our users to understand, and tickets often went to the wrong queues resulting in delays and frustration.
I coordinated with our business stakeholders to offer them training on the new system and taught them how to properly report incidents. We developed online training tools that could be used whenever new employees were onboarded. They loved the new design and were thrilled when their tickets were resolved twenty-three percent faster on average after a six-month rollout period. We also saw a thirty-two percent reduction in the overall number of incidents logged due to the quality of the knowledge base and training materials they had easy access to. These changes resulted in a $78,000 reduction in operating expenses within the first year alone."
Written by Karrie Day on June 25th, 2022
Discovery
7. What qualities of a company's culture do you appreciate the most? Dislike?
Why the Interviewer Asks This Question
This question helps determine whether or not a candidate is a fit for the culture of the hiring company. Interviewers are curious to know what cultural expectations you may have based on your preferences.
Written by Karrie Day on June 25th, 2022
Remember To
Feeling comfortable with your working environment is of the utmost importance for all parties involved. Remember to take advantage of the opportunity to ask the interviewer a follow up question about what they like the most about their company's culture during your interview.
Written by Karrie Day on June 25th, 2022
Answer Example
"I appreciate companies that foster environments where people are able to speak and act genuinely and authentically in the workplace. I dislike cultures that promote behaviors that stifle creativity and innovation. I am a supporter of process and social responsibility, and I thrive within companies that implement policy while maintaining a commitment to flexibility and the creative spirit. My research on the company demonstrates a culture in line with my thoughts on a preferable environment.
I am curious to know what you appreciate and dislike the most about working here. Would you be willing to share that with me?"
Written by Karrie Day on June 25th, 2022
Discovery
8. What is the most valuable lesson you have learned so far in your career?
Why the Interviewer Asks This Question
Interviewers ask this question to test a candidate's capacity for learning and growth. Acceptable answers can involve professional or interpersonal lessons and should demonstrate how you might add value to the hiring company.
Written by Karrie Day on June 25th, 2022
Remember To
Remember to describe a lesson that is relatable, scalable, and repeatable. The most valuable lesson you have learned in your career should involve something that initially made a sizable positive change and offers potential for future value to the next company you work for.
Written by Karrie Day on June 25th, 2022
Answer Example
"The biggest lesson I have learned is the power of carrying a humble spirit and an open mind. I have learned that the best possible ideas for any given solution can come from anywhere. It is not always my job to imagine the best solution. It is my job to seek ideas out and bridge them together in a cohesive fashion so that they can be understood, supported, engineered, and implemented in the best way possible."
Written by Karrie Day on June 25th, 2022
Discovery
9. What is your comfort level with traveling to client sites?
Why the Interviewer Asks This Question
This question often serves as a method to narrow large pools of candidates. Most companies believe it is important to determine a candidate's comfort level with travel scenarios upfront and may include this question in a phone screen interview.
Written by Karrie Day on June 25th, 2022
Remember To
Remember to research the travel requirements for the position you are interviewing for prior to your interview. The requirements are typically listed within the job description. Interviewers expect answers such as 'occasional,' or 'up to X percent of the time.' Candidates who are unsure or seem uncomfortable with the stated requirements are likely to be eliminated from additional interviews.
Written by Karrie Day on June 25th, 2022
Answer Example
I have experience visiting various travel sites domestically and internationally for sales, discovery, requirements gathering, and implementation efforts. I am comfortable with occasional travel. The job description mentioned travel up to 25%, and I would be happy to work within that range,
Written by Karrie Day on June 25th, 2022
Discovery
10. What types of resources have you controlled budgets for in the past?
Why the Interviewer Asks This Question
Many senior program managers have financial responsibility for their programs. The budgets for various resource types are allocated and tracked differently according to company policy and accounting regulations. This question is asked to determine if a candidate has experience managing the types of budgets they will be expected to have oversight of if hired.
Written by Karrie Day on June 25th, 2022
Remember To
Remember to consider non-human resources such as equipment and materials in your response. Also, some program managers are responsible for managing travel and expense budgets.
Written by Karrie Day on June 25th, 2022
Answer Example
"I have controlled budgets for staff and contingent labor, travel, equipment, material, purchased services, support, and marketing as a program manager."
Written by Karrie Day on June 25th, 2022
Discovery
11. Our senior program managers are often the face of large third-party solution purchases. What experience do you have working with vendors?
Why the Interviewer Asks This Question
Most companies expect senior program managers to have end-to-end experience working with third parties to supplement their own solutions. Interviewers ask this question to ensure that the candidate they select can handle the responsibility of facilitating important activities such as contract negotiation on behalf of their organization.
Written by Karrie Day on June 25th, 2022
Remember To
Remember to include the experience you have across all of the phases of vendor solution management. This includes discovery, contract negotiation, implementation and support activities.
Written by Karrie Day on June 25th, 2022
Answer Example
"I have end-to-end experience in this area as I have worked on both sides of third-party purchases. I have worked for companies that offer solutions and I have worked for enterprises that purchase them.
I have authored RFI, RFP, and RFQ documents and answered them, I have developed scorecards to compare vendors, I have negotiated contracts from both perspectives, I have managed implementations, and I have managed support and ongoing service activities."
Written by Karrie Day on June 25th, 2022
Discovery
12. How would you rate your experience as a facilitator, and do you have any formal training in this area?
Why the Interviewer Asks This Question
Senior program managers lead important meetings with senior leaders who do not always stay on task or agree. This question is raised in an interview to determine if a candidate has the skills necessary to address conflict, run agendas proficiently, and utilize facilitation tools properly.
Written by Karrie Day on June 25th, 2022
Remember To
Remember to outline any facilitation tools or techniques you have been trained to use. Facilitation is a formal skill set with standard methods that can be regularly applied to improve outcomes in a professional setting.
Written by Karrie Day on June 25th, 2022
Formally trained Example
"I would say I am a good facilitator. I have been trained in basic facilitation techniques and I have a decent toolkit to lean on. I am comfortable brainstorming, prioritizing, handling conflict, keeping teams on track, and gaining consensus. I know how to properly utilize agendas, ground rules, parking lots, action item lists, and decisions registers.
I have experience leading various types of meetings such as strategic planning sessions that are integral to the work of a senior program manager. I am working to grow in my mentoring and coaching aspects of facilitation, and I am excited to continue that work at the senior level of program management."
Written by Karrie Day on June 25th, 2022
Self taught Example
"I am not trained formally in facilitation, but I would say I am an intermediate-level facilitator. I regularly use basic tools such as agendas and action item lists to keep everyone focused on the goals of the session.
I plan to continue to observe others and gather what information I can on my own so that I can apply it to my work as a senior program manager. I would love the opportunity to expand my knowledge and take formal facilitation classes if that is an opportunity your company offers."
Written by Karrie Day on June 25th, 2022
Discovery
13. As a senior program manager, we ask that you have strong executive presence. What qualities do you feel you have that would contribute to that goal?
Why the Interviewer Asks This Question
Senior program managers are responsible for working directly with the executives of their own company as well as the executives of partner and client companies. This question is asked to learn more about a candidate's ability to handle themselves appropriately during these important exchanges.
Written by Karrie Day on June 25th, 2022
Remember To
Remember to describe your skills with confidence and presence. Your answer should be a representation of one or more of the qualities you describe. For example, if you answer that you have vast experience in the industry and you are confident in your ability to help executives make solid business decisions, you should state this in a direct and confident manner.
Written by Karrie Day on June 25th, 2022
Answer Example
"I am a naturally calm and confident person. I do not always have the answer needed in every situation, but the executives I work with trust that I will work hard to find a way to solve whatever complex problems they throw my way. I also have strong facilitation skills. I find that executives tend to have significant challenges getting on the same page because they all work hard to represent the unique needs of their own departments. I am skilled at bridging disparate perspectives together and fostering cohesion in uncomfortable circumstances."
Written by Karrie Day on June 25th, 2022
Discovery
14. What types of programs do you have experience leading?
Why the Interviewer Asks This Question
Senior program managers are responsible for a wide range of programs within companies. Interviewers ask this question to ensure a candidate's experience is in alignment with the business functions and types of programs they will be asked to lead if hired for the new role.
Written by Karrie Day on June 25th, 2022
Remember To
Remember to break down your experience by type or business function. For example, you might describe that you have internal enterprise-level program management experience, experience managing programs that ensure the successful delivery of technology products to external clients, experience delivering government programs, etcetera.
Written by Karrie Day on June 25th, 2022
Answer Example
"The majority of my program management experience is with technology projects. I worked as a project manager focused on enterprise applications and then I moved to a SaaS company 4 years ago to take a program manager position.
I have worked with internal groups such as HR, finance, accounting, security, properties, and operations. I have also partnered with product managers and sales to drive external programs."
Written by Karrie Day on June 25th, 2022
Discovery
15. Do you have experience leading technology projects or programs?
Why the Interviewer Asks This Question
Most significant programs of work have technological components to them, and many are technology centric. Interviewers ask this question to determine if a candidate has the level of technology initiative management required for the senior program manager role within their organization.
Written by Karrie Day on June 25th, 2022
Remember To
Remember to break your experience down by the types of solutions you have experience managing. For example, some companies may be interested to know if you have experience working with ERP, or CRM solutions. Others may seek candidates that have SasS experience. Keep your answer concise, but provide enough detail to drive follow-up questions as necessary.
Written by Karrie Day on June 25th, 2022
Answer Example
"I have significant technology program management experience. I currently work as a technical program manager at XYZ company, and I focus mostly on projects that affect the ABC suite of solutions. I am responsible for the coordination and success of the work of cross-functional teams that develop, support, sell, and market our solutions. Prior to that, I was a senior project manager who led HR focused enterprise technology solution development and ERP integration projects."
Written by Karrie Day on June 25th, 2022
Discovery
16. What do you envision as your next step after the senior program manager role?
Why the Interviewer Asks This Question
Some senior program managers have aspirations beyond the role they are interviewing for. Interviewers understand this and ask this question to get a sense of where a candidate would like to go and whether or not their company could provide a career path in alignment with the candidate's goals.
Written by Karrie Day on June 25th, 2022
Remember To
Remember to research or ask colleagues what they know about career path options within the company you are interviewing for. Various companies have several levels between titles while others progress more quickly. Ensure that your answer makes sense for the interview. Alternatively, provide a generic answer such as 'I'd like to move into a senior leadership role with direct management responsibilities.'
Written by Karrie Day on June 25th, 2022
Answer Example
"I enjoy program management and I can see myself in this role for a while. After that, I would like to pursue a director role within a PMO. I genuinely enjoy working with multiple areas of a company, providing governance, improving operations, and growing others professionally. My understanding is the PMO directors here at XYZ company perform those functions, and I think I could grow to be a great fit for that role if the timing was right and the opportunity was available."
Written by Karrie Day on June 25th, 2022
Discovery
17. What aspect of program management do you enjoy the most?
Why the Interviewer Asks This Question
It is important for professionals to have aspects of their work that they enjoy. Interviewers ask this question to learn more about what motivates a candidate and to determine if the open senior program manager position will offer opportunities in alignment with their preferences.
Written by Karrie Day on June 25th, 2022
Remember To
Remember to align your answer with a core aspect of the senior program manager role. Interviewers look for candidates that would be able to find enjoyment regularly in the open role at their company.
Written by Karrie Day on June 25th, 2022
Answer Example
"The aspect of program management I love the most is the opportunity to learn about so many areas of a business. I have had the opportunity to learn about operations, sales, accounting, finance, marketing, customer service, and technology in my time as a program manager. I have had the fortune to work with talented specialists in each field, and I enjoy serving as a bridge to help each group come together to solve complex business problems."
Written by Karrie Day on June 25th, 2022
Discovery
18. What aspect of program management do you dislike the most?
Why the Interviewer Asks This Question
It is normal for every professional to have aspects of their work that they do not enjoy. Interviewers ask this question to learn more about how a candidate addresses the portions of their job they dislike as they may represent areas in which they will need additional support.
Written by Karrie Day on June 25th, 2022
Remember To
Remember to describe an aspect of the role that is likely to occur infrequently, or one that is not a core aspect of program management. Interviewers are unlikely to select a candidate that indicates they dislike functions that are common or integral to the work of a senior program manager. For example, a program manager who interviews for a position at a non-profit organization should not disclose that they do not enjoy service to others within their response.
Also, remember to describe a method for addressing the area of the role you dislike the most. Interviewers value candidates that are able to demonstrate self-management of the areas they are likely to need support in.
Written by Karrie Day on June 25th, 2022
Answer Example
"I really enjoy program management. There are a number of career paths I am a fit for given my years of experience, but I want to move to the senior level and continue to grow in this area. That said, updating financial software is probably my least favorite aspect of program management because it feels mundane compared to the more interactive aspects of the role. However, I recognize that it is important, and I schedule time for it regularly on my calendar to make sure I stay 100% on top of it."
Written by Karrie Day on June 25th, 2022
Discovery
19. Please describe your experience level with agile and lean methodologies.
Why the Interviewer Asks This Question
Many companies utilize incremental development and lean operational methods. Interviewers ask this question to determine if a candidate is familiar with how the principles are applied to project execution.
Written by Karrie Day on June 25th, 2022
Remember To
Remember to highlight any certifications or role specific expertise you have in either of these areas. Some companies list the related certifications as attributes that would set a candidate apart from others interviewing for the same role.
Written by Karrie Day on June 25th, 2022
Agile Example
"I have over ten years' experience with agile methodologies. I have worked with teams that followed scrum, kanban, and hybrid methods. I am familiar with the workflows, roles, responsibilities, and concepts that drive each method. I am also a Certified Scrum Master.
My experience with lean is limited, but I have researched and applied several of the principles over the years to improve the quality of my decision making and the operations of the teams I have worked on."
Written by Karrie Day on June 25th, 2022
Lean Example
"I am a Six Sigma green belt, and I hope to obtain my black belt certification soon. I have applied my lean knowledge to the operations of internal stakeholders, external clients, and the teams who work within the programs I have managed.
My experience with agile is limited. Several of the technology engineering teams I have partnered with over the years have followed agile methodologies, and I am familiar with the basic principles of iterative development. I have not yet had the opportunity to be formally trained as a scrum master or product owner, but I understand the purpose of these important roles and how to partner with them at the program level."
Written by Karrie Day on June 25th, 2022
General
20. What strategies do you lean on the most to develop relationships with your stakeholders?
Why the Interviewer Asks This Question
Some of the most important work a senior program manager can do is develop and nurture strong relationships with their stakeholders. Interviewers ask this question to learn more about a candidate's approach to this critical aspect of their work.
Written by Karrie Day on June 25th, 2022
Remember To
Remember to go beyond the basic activities of regular check-ins, or friendly outreach emails. Senior program managers are expected to have advanced stakeholder and customer satisfaction skills. They are expected to lead by example in this space and give their customers a reason to come back as new opportunities arise.
Written by Karrie Day on June 25th, 2022
Answer Example
"I use the typical outreach methods that are standard relationship development tools. However, I use intuition and empathy to go beyond what is customary. I like to work with each stakeholder as an individual. I get to know them, their working style, and a bit about them personally. I cater my approach to their personality and their needs. When they need more attention because we are in a critical phase, I reach out more. When they indicate they need to vent, I listen. When they are busy with other things, I give them space. Essentially, I follow the platinum rule which states that you treat others the way they would like to be treated.
The other thing I do regularly is work incredibly hard to meet the commitments my teams make, be as transparent as possible, and demonstrate integrity at all times. These behaviors are critical in establishing the trust with stakeholders and clients that I am known for in my current role."
Written by Karrie Day on June 25th, 2022
General
21. Do you believe honesty is always the best policy?
Why the Interviewer Asks This Question
Senior program managers are often called upon to handle sensitive information with care. This applies to the work they do with clients, stakeholders, executives, peers, partners, and teammates. Interviewers ask this question to learn more about a candidate's perspective on approaching difficult conversations with honesty.
Written by Karrie Day on June 25th, 2022
Remember To
Remember to be authentic in your response. Interviewers use this question to trip candidates up, and it is important that your response resonate with your personal truth.
Written by Karrie Day on June 25th, 2022
Answer Example
"In my experience, truth is subjective. I have been in situations where I felt I was honest and someone else felt they were not given the information they expected in the way they expected it. I moved away from honesty and moved toward transparency. I offer all the facts as clearly as possible and let others draw their own conclusions based on what is true for them. That policy has worked well because it honors everyone's preferences and integrity."
Written by Karrie Day on June 25th, 2022
General
22. What are the similarities and differences between a senior program manager and a senior product manager?
Why the Interviewer Asks This Question
Senior program managers and senior product managers collaborate frequently and are often peers in companies who employ both roles. Interviewers ask this question to determine if a candidate understands the domain of focus for each role and where they would be likely to collaborate.
Written by Karrie Day on June 25th, 2022
Remember To
Remember to mention that the similarities and the differences between these two roles can vary. Interviewers who ask this question understand that the difference can be ambiguous depending on the company and the talents of the individuals in each role.
Written by Karrie Day on June 25th, 2022
Answer Example
"There can be a lot of crossover between senior program managers and senior product managers. In my experience, it depends on the skill sets of the individuals and the company. Both roles provide leadership and oversight to cross-functional teams. Both roles have financial and operational responsibilities. Both roles have strategic planning and tactical execution duties. Depending on the company, they may both have sales and customer service duties.
The difference between the roles usually lies in the domain of focus. Senior product managers are concerned with making sure that the teams they work with are focused on planning, creating, marketing, implementing, and supporting the right things at the right time. They develop strategies to maximize a company's resources by delivering excellent products. Their focus is on advocating for the customer or stakeholder to ensure their needs are met.
Senior program managers are focused on planning, creating, implementing, and supporting in the right way with the right people. They help to maximize a company's resources by bridging everyone together operationally. Their focus is to ensure excellence, implement standards, and enable knowledge sharing."
Written by Karrie Day on June 25th, 2022
General
23. Describe your preferred project discovery process.
Why the Interviewer Asks This Question
Senior program managers often provide leadership to discovery efforts for projects that are large in scope, costly, have time constraints, or have a high level of risk. Interviewers want to be certain that a new hire knows how to approach discovery and what the delivery expectations are at the end of the process.
Written by Karrie Day on June 25th, 2022
Remember To
Remember to outline a process that demonstrates your ability to facilitate the meetings and the creation of the deliverables involved with minimal guidance. Senior program managers are expected to have the experience necessary to quickly drive the discovery in situations where client guidance is limited due to a lack of expertise and/or availability.
Written by Karrie Day on June 25th, 2022
Answer Example
"I begin by ensuring the business goals for whatever projects or series of projects I will be working on are clear. In the event they are not clear or defined, the leads within my program and I meet with the stakeholders to drive out the correct level of detail needed to move forward. From there, we meet with the various groups responsible for the processes that will be affected by whatever changes have been proposed. Additionally, we meet with the teams responsible for the current solutions in place to understand their workflows.
The artifacts we create as a result of the discovery process may include context diagrams, workflow documents, market research, and cost analysis. The discovery phase is typically concluded by our giving a presentation that outlines the proposed strategic scope, high-level impact analysis, high-level cost estimates, and tactical next steps."
Written by Karrie Day on June 25th, 2022
General
24. How would you partner with a client to define a high-level program vision?
Why the Interviewer Asks This Question
Senior program managers typically get involved before large-scale programs are approved and funded. Interviewers want to understand how a candidate would work with their company to ensure that the most valuable and strategic projects are selected and align with a clear vision.
Written by Karrie Day on June 25th, 2022
Remember To
Remember to demonstrate an inclusive process for developing a vision. Senior program managers are often generalists in the various business areas involved and it is important to engage subject matter experts with the knowledge necessary for success.
Written by Karrie Day on June 25th, 2022
Answer Example
"I would begin by partnering with the experts within the business to perform a current state SWOT analysis. The goal would be to define what is working well, what needs improvement, and what threatens their success. From there, I would use an assessment matrix to compare the frequency and level of business impact for the items uncovered during the SWOT analysis. Finally, I would work with my clients to craft a high-level vision that honors their company's defined values and addresses the most impactful items uncovered during our discovery sessions."
Written by Karrie Day on June 25th, 2022
Leadership
25. What level of experience do you have managing and developing personnel?
Why the Interviewer Asks This Question
Some senior program managers have experience as the direct manager of resources they have worked with. Others come from organizations in which resources are matrixed and do not regularly report to program managers. Regardless, senior program managers typically have experience working with others to mentor, coach, and develop their professional skills. Interviewers ask this question to assess the depth of a candidate's experience in this area.
Written by Karrie Day on June 25th, 2022
Remember To
Remember to discuss your personnel management and development experience you have that comes from roles prior to program management if your experience as a program manager is limited. Also, be sure to include your experience assigning work and weighing in on performance reviews if you are not a direct manager.
Written by Karrie Day on June 25th, 2022
Direct management Example
"I currently work as a program manager within a PMO. There are four project managers that report to me directly. I handle their HR related needs, help them set their goals, assign their work, and write their reviews. I hold regular one-on-ones to discuss progress, issues and work together to help them achieve their goals and progress professionally. I work with them collectively to ensure we collaborate and share knowledge appropriately. I also coordinate their training and ensure they have access to mentors as needed.
Prior to working in project and program management, I was a senior business analyst and I mentored other analysts regularly. Also, I have mentored aspiring project managers that come from a number of backgrounds. I thoroughly enjoy this aspect of my work and I would love the opportunity to help develop talent as a senior program manager at your company."
Written by Karrie Day on June 25th, 2022
Lead through influence Example
"I do not have experience as a direct manager. My background lies in working in a matrixed organization where the cross-functional resources I lead report to centralized HR managers. However, I am responsible for managing the work assignments of three project managers. I discuss their performance with their managers and weigh in heavily on their reviews. The majority of their professional development comes from working with me or with mentors I help them to select. I also help to develop the analysts and scrum masters I work with. I have served in both of those roles, and I work to coach them on best practices and solve complex problems.
Finally, I participate in the hiring process for the majority of the resources for our teams, and I am typically involved with the management of any identified performance issues. I feel confident that I would be able to handle any direct resource management opportunities I may have at your company."
Written by Karrie Day on June 25th, 2022
Leadership
26. Our teams are cross-functional. What types of roles do you have experience working with in a leadership capacity?
Why the Interviewer Asks This Question
Senior program managers typically have advanced experience leading various types of resources. Interviewers ask this question to ensure the candidate they hire knows how to lead groups comprised of various levels of experience and expertise.
Written by Karrie Day on June 25th, 2022
Remember To
Remember to mention any groups you play a leadership role in that are stakeholder centric. For example, you might explain that you regularly facilitate a stakeholder meeting, or that you are responsible for assigning and reporting the status of client assigned work for your programs.
Written by Karrie Day on June 25th, 2022
Answer Example
"The teams I work with now as a program manager are cross-functional. I lead enterprise-level HR initiatives, and the resources vary depending on the type of projects. I have led product managers, project managers, analysts, engineers, support teams, etcetera. Also, our organization typically designates stakeholders that serve as subject matter experts that are matrixed. They report to one manager from an HR perspective, but I lead their work assignments. They represent domains like onboarding, hiring, provisioning, properties, and security.
I also lead a steering committee that has senior management representation from across our entire organization. The programs I lead typically affect every area of our business at one level or another, and I facilitate the discussions to set direction and review our roadmaps."
Written by Karrie Day on June 25th, 2022
Leadership
27. What are some ways you would coordinate and drive accountability across the various groups within your programs?
Why the Interviewer Asks This Question
Developing and fostering accountable behaviors is a duty that many senior program manager candidates will be expected to perform. Interviewers ask this question to determine how a candidate envisions they will be able to foster a fully accountable environment.
Written by Karrie Day on June 25th, 2022
Remember To
Remember to include accountability methods that can be measured in a variety of ways. This should include observable behaviors and metrics that speak to delivery upon team commitments. Additionally, be sure to demonstrate how you would hold yourself accountable.
Written by Karrie Day on June 25th, 2022
Answer Example
"As a senior program manager, I would drive accountability in a number of ways. First, I would foster an environment of accountability between my teams and our stakeholders. This would include setting specific goals and tracking metrics to measure our team's performance against them. I would ensure that we meet regularly to discuss progress and address any issues as early as possible. I would also encourage our stakeholders to be accountable for their participation in the development process. I would ask them to be accountable for regular access to information and subject matter experts as needed.
On a team level, I would encourage our team leaders to ask everyone to make specific commitments, be accountable to them, and hold regular retrospectives. I would personally demonstrate accountability by delivering on the commitments I make to my teammates. I would also leverage transparency and authentic ownership of any mistakes I make in an effort to inspire the same behaviors in others."
Written by Karrie Day on June 25th, 2022
Situational
28. Imagine that a coworker has just provided you with direct and honest feedback about a lack of quality in your work. How do you respond?
Why the Interviewer Asks This Question
Direct communication and honest feedback are highly valued attributes of the senior program manager role within many companies. An interviewer who asks this question is interested to know how a candidate plans to respond in direct communication situations that are traditionally perceived as uncomfortable.
Written by Karrie Day on June 25th, 2022
Remember To
Remember to include thanking your coworker for providing you with their assessment of your work. Showing appreciation for bringing an opportunity to light and addressing the situation in a positive manner demonstrates humility and open-mindedness.
Written by Karrie Day on June 25th, 2022
Answer Example
"I genuinely value honest feedback from coworkers. I would first thank this individual for bringing the issue to light in an authentic manner. I prefer to discuss situations like this out in the open so that they can be addressed and resolved quickly.
My next move would be to consider the details of their assessment. I would ask them to explain anything that was unclear and also ask them for an example of proper execution. I may need to rework my deliverables or spend extra time educating myself on a particular concept. I would also seek out a mentor or a coworker who thrives in this area so that I could use their work as an example of the level of quality to aim for in the future.
Once the issue has been addressed, I would circle back around with the coworker to ask for their thoughts on my latest work. It is important to me to continuously learn and demonstrate growth. I would thank them again for their candor and be prepared to do the same for other coworkers in the future."
Written by Karrie Day on June 25th, 2022
Situational
29. Describe a method for performing an impact assessment.
Why the Interviewer Asks This Question
Determining the impact of major changes is a primary responsibility of senior program managers. This question may be asked in an interview to gain insight into a candidate's process for analyzing this type of information.
Written by Karrie Day on June 25th, 2022
Remember To
Remember to include the aspects of your impact assessment process that rely on intuition and experience in addition to data-driven processes. The experience and feelings of a program manager can be an important factor when developing a strategy from the results of an impact analysis effort.
Written by Karrie Day on June 25th, 2022
Answer Example
"The first thing I would do is brainstorm a list of impact areas to be assessed. For example, I might consider financial impact, customer satisfaction, resource time, the frequency in which something occurs, the number of affected clients or users, etc. I would assign a weight to each of these impact areas depending on the relative importance of the area to the client and business I am working with.
Next, I would develop an easy-to-use scale to rate each assessment item in terms of impact. A typical scale would be a high-low scale in which I use the numbers 1-10. I would rate the items myself, or facilitate a stakeholder session to rate the items. Using a simple formula, I would then calculate the overall impact of each item.
I would consider adjustments to the scores based on my previous experience and intuition as well as the experience and feelings of the other subject matter experts involved. I would then develop a recommendation with strategic and tactical guidance supported by the impact analysis."
Written by Karrie Day on June 25th, 2022
Situational
30. What are some ways you generate positive energy within a team?
Why the Interviewer Asks This Question
Many senior program manager job descriptions at top companies include the ability to maintain a positive working environment as a desirable skill. Interviewers ask this question to assess whether the methods a candidate would use to offer positivity to their team are in alignment with the values of their company.
Written by Karrie Day on June 25th, 2022
Remember To
Remember to leave your interviewer with the impression you are prepared to offer validation and empathy during difficult situations. Candidates that indicate that they will always encourage others to see the positive aspect of a situation without allowing the negative aspects to be explored may be excluded from future interviews.
Written by Karrie Day on June 25th, 2022
Answer Example
"I am naturally a positive person. I like to smile and laugh, and I try to incorporate those behaviors regularly in a workplace appropriate way. Conversely, I recognize that challenges and struggles are real. In a team setting, I strive to validate the concerns of others and not look the other way simply because something has a negative aspect to it. Instead, I inspire trust in others by being honest about how I am feeling and then balancing those feelings by exploring the positive aspects of the situation simultaneously. I find this to be an authentic approach that generates more positive energy than simply ignoring the negative and always painting everything in a positive light."
Written by Karrie Day on June 25th, 2022
Situational
31. Describe a time when a contract was broken, and you had to negotiate a resolution.
Why the Interviewer Asks This Question
Senior program managers often play a role in assuring the terms of contracts with third parties are met. They also help to define the way forward when contracts are broken. Interviewers ask this question to test a candidate's experience level in this area.
Written by Karrie Day on June 25th, 2022
Remember To
Remember to describe a time when internal stakeholders were unable to deliver on their assigned activities if you have not had experience dealing with an official contract violation. Large projects typically have charters with expectations for major roles and responsibilities, and senior program managers are likely to have experience handling situations in which expectations are not met and need to be renegotiated.
Written by Karrie Day on June 25th, 2022
Answer Example
"In a previous role I worked as a delivery manager for a software company. Our methodology required our clients to own and deliver certain aspects of the project. For example, a client might need to provide data, or a server to host the solution, etcetera. Our legal team was great about working with us to drive out these details ahead of time because clients would often drop the ball on these activities and cause delays.
I worked on a major implementation for a large retail company. They repeatedly rescheduled our working sessions and failed to provide the resources we needed. The delay was significant and the resources on my side were moved to another project. I met with their senior management to communicate that the terms of our contract were violated and that we needed to define new terms of engagement.
Things got a bit tense, but it turned out that they had lost several key resources on their side, and they were scrambling to hire replacements. We were able to pause the project until they were able to staff it, and we renegotiated a new contract. They understood why we were unable to wait around for them, and they appreciated us working them in when they were ready."
Written by Karrie Day on June 25th, 2022
Situational
32. This is a fully remote position, and the members of the teams within the program you are responsible work remotely. How do you plan to stay connected to your teammates and stakeholders as a senior program manager?
Why the Interviewer Asks This Question
Senior program managers are experts at connecting teams and members of teams. Interviewers ask this question to learn more about a candidate's ability to foster connections in a remote work environment.
Written by Karrie Day on June 25th, 2022
Remember To
Remember to discuss informal communication techniques in addition to any potential procedural methods you would implement. Impromptu meetings or one on one discussions are wonderful opportunities to gather insight and the depth of information a senior program manager needs to be successful.
Written by Karrie Day on June 25th, 2022
Answer Example
"In regard to my teammates, I like to make sure that each team holds some form of daily check in when working remotely. These meetings are short, but they give everyone an opportunity to discuss what they are working on and determine the logistics for anything they need to collaborate on. I also like to reach out to the people I work with informally through Slack or over the phone. I ask how things are going and if there's anything I can do to support them. This is similar to popping by someone's desk in the office or walking to grab coffee.
I take a similar approach with my stakeholders. I schedule regular check-ins to walk through formal updates and gather information on any concerns they have. Additionally, I reach out informally regularly just to know they are valued and to see if there's anything I can offer."
Written by Karrie Day on June 25th, 2022
Situational
33. Describe a time when you established a program level process change.
Why the Interviewer Asks This Question
Senior program managers are often tasked with ensuring cohesion and efficiency within the programs they manage. Interviewers ask this question to learn more about how a candidate would identify and implement program level process changes.
Written by Karrie Day on June 25th, 2022
Remember To
Remember to describe the impact the change you implemented had. Your answer should include any business benefits as well as benefits to team morale or customer satisfaction.
Written by Karrie Day on June 25th, 2022
Answer Example
"I am currently a program manager for a technology company. There are three engineering teams that I have responsibility for, and they use scrum methodology. They did not have a program manager prior to my being hired and they collaborated informally. I appreciated the grass roots style they utilized, but I noticed an opportunity to tighten things up soon after I was hired.
I worked with the team leaders to set up a scrum of scrum style meeting three times a week. It was a 30-minute check in to talk about what each team was working on at a high level and discuss challenges. This change made a huge difference. We were able to take advantage of resources that had availability to help others, we collaborated on roadblock removal strategies, we shared best practices, and we aligned our tasks operationally. I loved how the leads embraced the meetings and utilized them to improve their individual team outputs."
Written by Karrie Day on June 25th, 2022