Project Manager (Strategic Initiatives)

Location:

Job Summary

The Project Manager leads and supports a diverse portfolio of small to mid-size projects, which usually impact a Line of Business (LOB) and/or functional areas and assists with strategic process improvement initiatives across the Institutional Bank. The position takes projects from planning through final implementation using standard project management, change management, risk management, and process improvement methodologies and concepts. Enables process improvement, promotes technology-driven solutions, and assists with training and communication across Institutional Bank. This role requires a hands-on approach to defining and clarifying processes whenever ambiguity exists, ensuring project teams have clear direction and consistent execution standards. The role partners closely with business leaders, IT, and cross-functional teams while maintaining a trusted-advisor relationship with stakeholders. The role is responsible for setting expectations for project stakeholders through planning activities and maintains transparency via communication and reporting channels.

Essential Functions

* Lead and manage small to mid-size projects or project phases, from planning through implementation.

* Develop and maintain integrated project plans, including scope, objectives, requirements, dependencies, critical paths, and key milestones.

* Identify ambiguous workflows or undefined processes and work directly with stakeholders to define, document, and standardize them.

* Execute change management activities including communication, training, and readiness planning.

* Analyze business processes, recommend improvements, and drive technology-enabled enhancements using platforms such as SharePoint, Salesforce, and Microsoft Office 365.

* Identify, track, and escalate risks, issues, and resource needs; perform impact analyses and recommend mitigation strategies.

* Coordinate with IT, business SMEs, and cross-functional partners to design and implement solutions that strengthen operational efficiency.

* Prepare and present executive-ready reporting, communication updates, and project summaries.

* Manage project budgets, resource utilization, and vendor engagement as required.

* Support business case development and project initiation activities.

* Build strong working relationships and maintain effective communication with stakeholders across the organization.

Complies with all KeyBank policies and procedures, including without limitation, acting professionally at all times, conducting business ethically, avoiding conflicts of interest, and acting in the best interests of Key's clients and Key.

Education:

Bachelor's Degree (preferred)

OR equivalent experience (required)

Work Experience

* Minimum of 3 years of project management, process improvement, or technology-enablement experience (required)

* Experience working with enterprise tools (e.g., SharePoint, Salesforce, Microsoft Office 365) (preferred)

* Experience supporting or leading projects in financial services is beneficial (preferred)

Licenses & Certifications

* Project Management Professional (PMP) (preferred)

* Agile, ADKAR, or related change-management certifications (preferred)

* Lean Six Sigma Green Belt (preferred)

Skills

* Project planning, tracking, and reporting

* Process mapping, analysis, and improvement

* Change-management planning, documentation, and facilitation

* Strong analytical and problem-solving abilities

* Ability to define and clarify ambiguous processes through hands-on engagement with stakeholders

* Excellent written and verbal communication

* Strong stakeholder management and relationship-building

* Technical proficiency with workflow automation and CRM tools

* Ability to manage competing priorities in fast-paced environments

* Experience using Artificial Intelligence tools to improve efficiency and streamline project delivery (preferred)

Core Competencies

* Leadership and team coordination

* Cross-functional collaboration

* Strategic and critical thinking

* Adaptability and growth mindset

* Executive presence and presentation abilities

* Organizational awareness and trusted-advisor behavior

* Self-management and prioritization

* Continuous improvement mindset

All KeyBank employees are expected to demonstrate Key's Values and abide by Key's Code of Conduct.

Physical Demands

* Standard office environment

* Prolonged sitting and frequent use of computer/laptop

* Ability to participate in in-person and virtual meetings

* Occasional lifting of items up to 10 lbs.

COMPENSATION AND BENEFITS

Please click here for a list of benefits for which this position is eligible.

Key has implemented an approach to employee workspaces which prioritizes in-office presence, while providing flexible options in circumstances where roles can be performed effectively in a mobile environment.

Qualified individuals with disabilities or disabled veterans who are unable or limited in their ability to apply on this site may request reasonable accommodations by emailing HR_Compliance@keybank.com.