Program Manager ENGAGE.EU (m/f/d)

Universität Mannheim

Job Description

The University of Mannheim is one of the leading universities in Germany with approximately 12,000 students in five schools. Particularly in business and economics as well as in the social sciences the university ranks among the top institutions both at national and international level. More than 2,600 employees profit from an exciting work environment with numerous benefits.

The European University Alliance ENGAGE.EU is offering a full-time position as

Program Manager ENGAGE.EU (m/f/d)

starting as soon as possible.

Key information
Start: as soon as possible
Term: until 31st October 2027
Remuneration bracket: E 13 TV-L BW
Weekly hours: 39,5 hours, the position is generally suitable for job sharing
Location: Secretariat of the ENGAGE.EU Alliance, hosted by the University of Mannheim, Germany
Application deadline: 23 März 2025
Reference number: VP-332

ENGAGE.EU is a dynamic European University Alliance bringing together leading universities committed to advancing higher education in Europe and addressing societal challenges in a globalized world. The Secretariat, hosted by the University of Mannheim, supports the Alliance in driving its vision through collaborative, innovative, and impactful initiatives.

Reporting to the Secretary General, the Program Manager will provide vital support for systematic reporting, track progress, and contribute to delivering the Alliance-s core program results. The role involves centralized oversight of monitoring and reporting efforts, while ensuring strong coordination across work packages and institutions where subsidiarity plays a key role. Additionally, the Program Manager will coordinate the development of joint procedures for the better management of the Alliance.

This position works closely with other officers at the Secretariat and offers a unique opportunity to make a meaningful impact not only on the Alliance but also on the future of European higher education.


  • Oversee and manage the ENGAGE.EU Alliance project, ensuring successful implementation, timely delivery, and alignment with Alliance objectives.
  • Take charge of centralized monitoring and reporting efforts, ensuring the project-s progress is effectively tracked and fully aligned with goals and KPIs. Work closely with work package coordinators and institutional teams to coordinate reporting efforts and balance subsidiarity with cohesion.
  • Prepare and deliver comprehensive project reports to the European Commission and other relevant bodies, ensuring compliance and transparency.
  • Coordinate and support cross-institutional and international teams within the Alliance, fostering smooth collaboration among stakeholder groups.
  • Facilitate the development and implementation of joint procedures to improve the operational management of the Alliance and strengthen collaboration among partners.
  • Develop and maintain project plans, timelines, and budgets while monitoring risks and ensuring compliance with publicly funded grant requirements.
  • Facilitate effective communication across levels (up, down, and laterally) within the Alliance and with external partners, fostering trust and understanding.
  • Represent ENGAGE.EU in meetings and events as needed.

  • Excellent organizational and time management skills, with the ability to manage competing priorities and perform under pressure.
  • Strong coordination and collaboration skills, particularly in multistakeholder environments.
  • A proactive mindset with intercultural sensitivity and the ability to foster effective working relationships across diverse groups.
  • Flexibility and adaptability, with the ability to improvise and manage challenges dynamically.
  • Good interpersonal communication skills, fostering trust and transparency at all levels.
  • A dynamic, energetic, and positive attitude, committed to delivering results in a fast-paced, high-impact environment.

Additional Assets

  • Prior experience working on or leading European projects.
  • Familiarity with the European Higher Education and Research landscape.
  • Ability and interest in standardizing procedures, streamlining processes, and driving continuous improvement to enhance the operational efficiency of the Alliance.
  • Experience in monitoring, evaluation and learning (MEL), including project quality assurance, impact assessment, and the use of monitoring techniques to track progress and enhance program effectiveness and efficacy.
  • Openness to travel within Europe as required.

  • A challenging and rewarding position at the heart of a dynamic European initiative.
  • The opportunity to work in a highly international, multicultural, and innovative environment.
  • The chance to contribute meaningfully to the future of European higher education and the ENGAGE.EU mission.
  • Professional growth and development opportunities within the University of Mannheim and the Alliance.
  • Positive working atmosphere
  • International orientation
  • Extensive range of further training opportunities
  • Telework
  • Family-friendly higher education institution
  • Job Ticket Baden-Württemberg

Applications from persons with a disability are given preferential consideration provided that they are appropriately qualified. The University of Mannheim is committed to increasing the quota of women and thus encourages women with appropriate qualifications to apply.

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