Release Manager

Position Details: The role of the RDM Release Manager is to be accountable and to coordinate cross functional, multiple phase network implementations, engineering support and service delivery work. They direct tasks, decipher requirements, manage communications and updates, escalates/takes escalations, tracks and manages synergies and dependencies supporting network implementation deliverables. The RDM Release Manager works closely with assigned Engineers, Program and Project Managers and other support and service providers. The RDM Release Manager focuses and forecasts the delivery track of multi-phase work against change and release calendar(s). The RDM Release Manager needs to understand the technical implementation/change processes, supports the Implementation Engineer throughout implementation (pre-during-post) and the full change management process. Location - Telecommuter anywhere in the U.S. Standard work hours: Mon-Fri mainly. Hours of support varies. Does occasionally include nights/weekends. Deeper into the project we may require a shifted weekly schedule. Location: Telecommuter anywhere in the U.S. Client Addendum will need to be followed. Copy will be provided at the time of candidates offer acceptance. Essential Functions: Must have the ability to understand and translate business requirements into engineering and or implementation details. Ability to manage Network technical/engineering/implementation resource tasks and service delivery. This includes FTE/FTC/vendors and partners. The candidate must have excellent client interfacing skills, vendor/third-party resources, strong verbal and written communication skills and ability to work with all levels of management. Candidate should have experience operating with colleagues across different time zones with a flexible approach to working hours (ability to work varied hours and weekends a must) in order to successfully interact and communicate on a global level) if needed. Accountable to manage the “end or end” successful technical or solution delivery of assigned tasks partnering with Network engineering/implementation teams, program/project manager or directly with the requestor. Takes direct accountability for the engineering resources and all assigned work tasks. Is accountable for the STI/Release and Deployment tasks (prior to; up to, during and post the change window through Production Day-One). Develops, tracks, reports and manages engineering delivery tasks. Anticipates and proactively resolves issues and conflicts within and between engineering delivery work-flows and all other stakeholders. Provides regular and pro-active status to STI/Release and Deployment management. Anticipates issues and reports them to STI/Release and Deployment management. Escalates as needed or as appropriate. Advocate on behalf of CTO Operations/STI; ensures we communicate/report statuses, issues, positions effectively and in a clear way. Works with the various program/project managers to establish release/impact/risk trackers and calendars for the work they are accountable for. Work with other program/project managers and the engineering and delivery teams (i.e. field services) to understand internal/external and associated dependencies. Reacts to them proactively and effectively. Responsible report and monitor progress against the release calendar; communicate release details and schedules to the stakeholders as required. Proactively manage conflict. Identifies and/or challenges schedules that could create conflicts; evaluates all recommended changes and ensures implementation schedules do not interfere with business operations/other changes. Works with engineering/implementation to ensure that all the necessary documentation has been successfully completed for each release and task. Works with engineering/implementation to raise Request for Change (CRQ) for engineering specific changes. Ensures appropriate change details are documented. Reviews change requests for completeness, from description, documentation, risk/impact, and post-implementation Participate in the change management board; conducts release readiness reviews as appropriate. Arranges and facilitates appropriate post-implementation review activities if/as needed Maintains 100% compliance to all firm-wide Change Management policies (pre, during and post change). Participates in incident and problem analysis for possible consequences of a change and its implementation. Education Requirements: High school diploma or GED equivalent required. Bachelor’s degree in engineering, computer science, business or a finance related field/technical training or equivalent experience preferred. Experience Requirements: Minimum 8+ years experience required in a Technical role supporting network project/programs. Industry Certifications in PMP, ITIL are strongly preferred, technical certifications such as CCNA are a plus. Experience with Change Management and CAB processes and procedures a must. Strong background in IT service delivery role. Financial services (Insurance, Banking, Investment banking), is a plus. Ability to be nimble and flexible; prioritize work load, proactively react to issues and consistently react to shifting deadlines. Ability to create meaningful data that contributes to the Change Management and Service Delivery processes. Other Qualifications, Skills & Certifications: Competencies Leadership; be a self-starter, self-directed and shows initiative. Focused on execution, delivery and commitment to dates. Ability to work in a high paced environment. Can manage risk; is a good decision maker. Understands the big picture; can relate to the firm’s strategy and actions and how they support our business results. Demonstrates ownership: Is accountable and influence/can hold others accountable (professionally). Strong written and verbal communications skills. Ability to communicate and influence upward as well as laterally. Organized and detail oriented. Have a strong technical acumen. Experience in planning, directing and coordinating projects to ensure on-time completions using the Project management life cycle Project positive attitude while establishing effective professional relationships Create and maintain fluid and effective project schedules Proactively handle project issues and/or risks Ability to partner with others for the good of the initiative. About Us: Black Box is a leading technology solutions provider. Our mission is to accelerate our customers’ business by valuing relationships with our team members, clients and stakeholders. By continuously growing our knowledge, we remain relevant in the market and are in a superior position to help customers design, deploy and manage their IT infrastructure. Through our values, such as innovation, ownership, transparency, respect and open-mindedness, we deliver high-value products and services through our global presence and 2,500+ team members in 24 countries and growing. Black Box is a wholly-owned subsidiary of AGC Networks. Visit bboxservices.com to learn more. #LI-AG1 Coordinate and manage cross-functional, multi-phase network implementations and engineering support. Direct tasks, interpret requirements, and manage project communications and updates. Escalate and manage issues, track dependencies, and ensure timely delivery of network implementation deliverables. Work closely with assigned engineers, program managers, and other support teams to ensure smooth project execution. Understand and support the technical implementation and change management processes. Provide guidance and support to implementation engineers throughout the project lifecycle. Focus on delivery tracking and forecast multi-phase work against change and release calendars. Collaborate with stakeholders to ensure a seamless and efficient project delivery process. Maintain effective communication and keep relevant parties informed of project progress and any potential delays. Ensure compliance with company policies, procedures, and quality standards. Bachelor's degree in Computer Science, Engineering, or a related field. 5+ years of experience in project management or a similar role, preferably in a telecommunications or IT environment. Strong understanding of network technologies, protocols, and implementation processes. Excellent communication and interpersonal skills, with the ability to collaborate effectively with diverse teams. Proven ability to manage multiple projects simultaneously and meet tight deadlines. Experience with project management tools and methodologies, such as Agile or Scrum. Strong analytical and problem-solving skills, with the ability to identify and resolve complex issues. Ability to work independently and make sound decisions with minimal supervision. Proficiency in Microsoft Office Suite and other relevant project management software. Willingness to adapt to changing project requirements and a dynamic work environment.