Strategic Initiatives Manager - IT

• Lead complex IT and cross-functional projects from start to finish — making sure they’re delivered on time, on budget, and aligned with business priorities.
• Use the right project management style (Agile, Waterfall, or hybrid) to keep things moving smoothly.
• Keep risks in check, connect the dots across teams, and keep everyone on the same page.
• Share progress in a clear, meaningful way with leaders and stakeholders.

• Partner with business leaders to define what our products and tools should do — then turn those ideas into clear requirements and actionable plans.
• Support the full product lifecycle, from brainstorming through launch and continuous improvement.
• Make sure new features and tools truly deliver value for both our clients and our internal teams.

• Be the go-to person for our technology vendors, ensuring we get the most out of every partnership.
• Manage contracts, service levels, and performance expectations.
• Oversee onboarding, integrations, and ongoing support.

• Work closely with our change management team to make new systems and processes stick.
• Align your work with Savant’s strategic initiatives, ensuring projects deliver lasting value.
• Help develop communication, training, and engagement strategies so everyone is set up for success.

​​​​​​​A couple things to note about our Strategic Initiatives Manager - IT position:

• Location: This position can be based out of any of our regional Chicago offices, with the flexibility to drive to our Rockford, IL and Downtown Chicago location.
• Work Model: Initially we will expect more in-office time, but once you're fully up and running, we will discuss the potential for you to work in our hybrid model of 3 days in office and 2 from home.
• Typical Hours: Standard business hours with flexibility based on business needs.

• Bachelor’s degree in Business, Computer Science, Engineering, or a related field (MBA, MPA, or similar is a plus).
• 7+ years managing complex projects and product initiatives — ideally in financial services.
• A track record of turning big ideas into reality with measurable business results.
• Skilled at translating business needs into clear, actionable requirements.
• Confident communicating with everyone from technical teams to executives.
• Data-driven decision maker who seeks out feedback and metrics to guide improvements.
• PMP® or equivalent preferred.

• Big-picture thinker who can see how every project fits into our long-term strategy.
• Problem-solver at heart who loves digging into challenges and finding practical, scalable solutions.
• Self-starter who takes ownership and drives results without needing constant direction.
• Collaborator who thrives working across departments and with external partners.
• Change leader who helps others embrace and adapt to new ways of working.
• Clear communicator who can adjust your style for technical or executive audiences.
• Detail-oriented doer who ensures nothing falls through the cracks.
• Adaptable when priorities shift, with a steady focus on delivering value.
• Embodies Savant’s core values of excellence, integrity, lifelong learning, respect, growth, and servant leadership.

• Benefit Eligibility on Day One: Enjoy immediate access to a robust benefits package starting on your first day of employment.
• Choice of Medical Plans: Select from two medical plans tailored to fit your needs.
• Health & Wellness Accounts: Opt for a Health Savings Account (HSA) or Flexible Spending Account (FSA) to manage your healthcare expenses.
• Flexible Dental Coverage: Choose between two dental plan options for optimal oral health.
• Vision Insurance: Keep your eyes healthy with our vision insurance plan.
• Company-Paid Life & AD&D Insurance: Feel secure with fully covered basic life insurance and accidental death & dismemberment benefits.
• Company-Paid Disability Coverage: Rest easy knowing you’re covered with both short-term and long-term disability plans.
• 401(k) with Company Match: Invest in your future with both Roth and Traditional 401(k) plans, featuring a per pay period company match.
• Generous Paid Time Off: Benefit from PTO that increases with your years of service, at least 11 paid holidays each year, a paid day each year for your Savantiversary, and enjoy shorter work weeks with our Summer Hours. 
• Additional Leave and Time Off Benefits: Personal leave, parental leave, professional development paid time, and bereavement pay are just a few examples of how you will be supported with time off and other benefits during life's most critical moments.
• Dress Code: Enjoy a “Dress for Your Day” approach to your style. We offer wardrobe flexibility based on office culture, client expectations, and your daily schedule.
• Employee Recognition: Enjoy monetary awards through our recognition program.
• Team Incentive Plans: Participate in our team incentive plan for additional earning opportunities.
• Employee Assistance Program: Access support through our Employee Assistance Program whenever you need it.
• Exclusive Discounts: Take advantage of various discount programs for additional savings.
• Wellness Reimbursements: Get reimbursed for gym memberships and other wellness programs to stay fit and healthy.
• Additional Perks: Get reimbursed for your warehouse club memberships and receive an allowance for Savant Swag.