Senior Strategist or Design Strategist; Program Manager

📍 Job Overview

Job Title: Senior Strategist or Design Strategist; Program Manager

Company: LINK

Location: Washington, DC

Job Type: Full-time

Category: Strategy & Program Management, Design Strategy

Date Posted: 2026-08-18T13:03:12

Experience Level: 10+ years

Remote Status: Hybrid

🚀 Role Summary

• This role is pivotal for driving strategic initiatives and program execution within the federal government sector, leveraging human-centered design principles.

• Key responsibilities include acting as a trusted advisor to clients, leading complex design strategy development, and executing impactful visual storytelling.

• The position requires robust program management capabilities, including familiarity with Agile methodologies and best practices for project delivery.

• Candidates will be instrumental in managing client relationships, ensuring contract performance, and fostering business growth through strategic partnerships.

📝 Enhancement Note: This role blends deep strategic thinking with practical program management, focusing on translating complex government challenges into actionable, human-centered design solutions. The dual title suggests a need for both high-level strategic advisory and detailed execution oversight.

📈 Primary Responsibilities

• Client Partnership & Design Strategy Leadership: Serve as a trusted advisor by framing complex challenges, identifying opportunities, and applying human-centered design to inform strategic decision-making for federal government clients.

• Content Strategy, Storytelling & Execution: Translate complex ideas into compelling strategic narratives, executive-level presentations, and communication strategies, collaborating with creative teams to develop high-quality visual products.

• Change Management & Organizational Transformation: Develop and implement change management strategies, including stakeholder engagement, communication plans, and adoption roadmaps, to support successful organizational transformations.

• Research, Insight Development & Systems Thinking: Lead mixed-method research efforts (interviews, observations, journey mapping) to synthesize qualitative and quantitative findings into actionable insights and strategic recommendations.

• Workshop Facilitation & Stakeholder Alignment: Design and facilitate workshops, design sprints, and co-creation activities to advance strategic objectives, drive organizational alignment, and enable productive dialogue.

• Program Management & Delivery Excellence: Oversee program budgets, team utilization, schedules, staffing plans, risks, and deliverable quality, ensuring successful execution of contractual requirements and on-time delivery.

• Team Leadership & Development: Provide direction, coaching, and feedback to project teams, mentor teammates, and model company values to contribute to a collaborative and high-performing team culture.

📝 Enhancement Note: The responsibilities are clearly segmented into strategic/design focus and program management focus, indicating a need for a candidate who can excel in both advisory and execution capacities. The emphasis on federal government clients and human-centered design is a recurring theme.

🎓 Skills & Qualifications

Education:

• Bachelor’s degree in Journalism, Communication, English, Business, or a related field. Experience:

• 10+ years of experience in strategic communication, public affairs, program management, or strategy development.

• 7+ years of program/project management experience, including familiarity with Agile methodologies and project delivery best practices.

• Demonstrated ability to manage multiple complex projects simultaneously, with a strong focus on accuracy and attention to detail.

• Government contracting experience is essential. Required Skills:

• Current TS/SCI clearance level is mandatory.

• Exceptional written and verbal communication skills, with the ability to communicate clearly, approachably, and knowledgeably.

• Proven experience with human-centered design and design thinking principles.

• Strong program/project management skills, including familiarity with Agile methodologies.

• Expertise in strategic communication and developing compelling narratives.

• Ability to lead and facilitate cross-functional workshops and stakeholder engagements. Preferred Skills:

• PMP certification is preferred.

• Experience in public affairs, innovation, and branding within the federal sector.

• Familiarity with visual storytelling techniques and collaboration with creative teams.

• Experience with systems thinking and ecosystem analysis.

📝 Enhancement Note: The mandatory TS/SCI clearance is a critical qualification. The experience requirements are substantial, indicating a senior-level role where strategic autonomy and leadership are expected.

📊 Process & Systems Portfolio Requirements

Portfolio Essentials:

• Demonstrate experience in leading the development and execution of comprehensive design strategies for complex organizations, particularly within the federal government.

• Showcase case studies of successful program management, highlighting project scope, timelines, budget adherence, and successful delivery of client objectives.

• Provide examples of translating complex ideas into clear, compelling strategic narratives, executive presentations, and communication materials.

• Include evidence of applying human-centered design and design thinking principles to solve client challenges, with clear articulation of the process and outcomes.

• Present examples of research methodologies used (e.g., stakeholder interviews, journey mapping) and how insights were synthesized into actionable recommendations. Process Documentation:

• Evidence of developing and implementing change management strategies, including stakeholder engagement plans and adoption roadmaps.

• Demonstration of designing and facilitating workshops, design sprints, or co-creation sessions to drive alignment and problem-solving.

• Examples of creating messaging frameworks, content structures, and information hierarchies for effective communication.

• Documentation of program management processes, including risk management, resource allocation, and reporting mechanisms, particularly within Agile frameworks.

📝 Enhancement Note: While a formal portfolio isn't explicitly requested, the responsibilities and skills imply a need for candidates to be able to present detailed examples of their strategic, design, and program management work. Highlighting process and impact will be crucial.

💵 Compensation & Benefits

Salary Range:

• $112,000 - $151,000 annually. This range is subject to adjustment based on factors such as candidate experience, specific skill set, and geographic location. Benefits:

• Financial: 401K with employer contribution up to 4%, annual bonus plan participation, annual profit sharing participation.

• Work-Life Integration: $100 monthly internet/cell phone stipend, $150 monthly commuter stipend, 15 days of Paid Time Off (PTO) per year, paid holiday time off (Christmas Eve through New Year), and paid time off for 11 Federal Holidays.

• Health & Wellness: LINK-sponsored healthcare benefits including medical, dental, and vision insurance; company-paid Short Term Disability Insurance.

• Professional Development: $2,000 Learning and Development program reimbursement annually.

• Technology: A technology package including a LINK-owned MacBook Pro, monitor, mouse, and keyboard.

Working Hours:

• Full-time, 40 hours per week.

• Occasional onsite presence and local/national travel may be required for client meetings, presentations, or working sessions.

• Some travel is also expected for relevant events, conferences, and LINK team events.

📝 Enhancement Note: The salary range is competitive for senior strategy and program management roles in the DC area. The benefits package is robust, with a strong emphasis on professional development and work-life balance, which are attractive to experienced professionals.

🎯 Team & Company Context

🏢 Company Culture

Industry: Federal Government Contracting, Strategy Consulting, Human-Centered Design, Innovation.

Company Size: Fast-growing Woman Owned Small Business (WOSB). The "fast-growing" nature suggests a dynamic, potentially agile environment where individual contributions are highly visible and impactful. As a WOSB, there may be specific opportunities and considerations within federal contracting.

Founded: Not explicitly stated, but described as "fast-growing," implying established operations with a clear growth trajectory.

Team Structure:

• The role involves collaboration with internal teams, including engineers, futurists, and thought leaders, as well as creative teams.

• There's a clear reporting structure implied for program management, with coordination with "Competency Managers."

• Cross-functional collaboration is a core aspect, working with diverse client stakeholders, internal subject matter experts, and creative professionals. Methodology:

• Human-Centered Design & Design Thinking: This is a foundational methodology, emphasizing understanding user needs and organizational context to drive solutions.

• Agile Methodologies: Applied in program/project management for iterative delivery and adaptability.

• Systems Thinking: Used to understand complex interdependencies within organizational environments.

• Visual Storytelling: A key approach for communicating complex ideas and strategic direction.

• Data-Driven Insights: Research and analysis are used to inform strategic recommendations.

Company Website: link.com

📝 Enhancement Note: LINK positions itself as a partner in change, using design to solve complex problems. The culture likely values innovation, collaboration, and a deep understanding of client missions, particularly within the federal government. The WOSB status is a key differentiator.

📈 Career & Growth Analysis

Operations Career Level: This is a senior-level position, serving as a "Senior Strategist or Strategist; Program Manager." It requires significant experience (10+ years) and implies a leadership role with substantial autonomy and client-facing responsibilities. The dual title suggests a career path that spans strategic advisory and direct program execution.

Reporting Structure:

• The role will likely report to a Director or Principal within LINK, overseeing client engagements.

• As a Program Manager, there's direct responsibility for leading and directing project teams.

• Collaboration with Competency Managers suggests a matrixed reporting or functional support structure for team members. Operations Impact:

• The role is designed to have a direct impact on client success by untangling complexity, discovering opportunity, and communicating clearly.

• Success is measured by client satisfaction, contract performance, business growth, and the successful implementation of strategic and design solutions.

• The focus on federal government clients means impact can extend to significant public sector initiatives. Growth Opportunities:

• Leadership Advancement: Potential to grow into Principal roles, account management, or leadership positions within LINK, managing larger portfolios or business units.

• Specialization: Deepen expertise in specific areas like human-centered design, change management, or federal strategy.

• Skill Development: Leverage the $2,000 L&D reimbursement for certifications (e.g., advanced PMP, design thinking certifications) or specialized training.

• Business Development: Contribute to expanding LINK's client base and services, potentially leading to roles with a stronger business development focus.

📝 Enhancement Note: This role offers a clear path for seasoned professionals to lead impactful projects, influence client strategy, and grow within a specialized consulting firm. The dual nature of the role provides flexibility for career development in either strategic advisory or direct program leadership.

🌐 Work Environment

Office Type: Hybrid. The role requires occasional onsite presence for client meetings, presentations, or working sessions, which could involve local or national travel. This suggests a flexible work arrangement balancing remote work with necessary in-person collaboration.

Office Location(s): Actively hiring in Washington D.C. or San Diego, CA. This provides geographical flexibility for candidates.

Workspace Context:

• Collaborative Environment: The role demands extensive collaboration with internal teams (engineers, futurists, creative professionals) and external clients. This implies a culture that values teamwork and open communication.

• Tools & Technology: Candidates will utilize a provided technology package, including a MacBook Pro, monitor, mouse, and keyboard, indicating a focus on equipping employees with necessary tools for effective remote and hybrid work.

• Operations Team Interaction: Regular interaction with project teams, Competency Managers, and potentially leadership for strategic alignment and performance management.

Work Schedule:

• Standard full-time, 40 hours per week.

• Flexibility is implied by the hybrid nature, though occasional travel and onsite presence are requirements. The need to manage client schedules and project deadlines will dictate some flexibility.

📝 Enhancement Note: The hybrid model and dual location options are designed to attract talent while maintaining the necessary client engagement and team collaboration. The provided technology package underscores the company's commitment to supporting its hybrid workforce.

📄 Application & Portfolio Review Process

Interview Process:

• Initial Screening: Likely a review of resume and application, focusing on the TS/SCI clearance, years of experience, and core skills in strategy, design thinking, and program management.

• First Round Interview: Typically with a hiring manager or senior team member to assess foundational qualifications, communication style, and initial fit with the role and company culture. Expect behavioral questions related to past project successes and challenges.

• Second Round Interview (or Case Study): May involve a more in-depth discussion, a case study exercise, or a presentation. This would focus on problem-solving abilities, strategic thinking, approach to human-centered design, and program management methodologies. Candidates may be asked to present a hypothetical strategy or walk through a past project.

• Final Round Interview: Potentially with senior leadership or key client stakeholders to evaluate strategic alignment, executive presence, and overall fit for advising federal government clients.

Portfolio Review Tips:

• Focus on Impact: For strategy and design cases, clearly articulate the problem, your approach (human-centered design, systems thinking), the actions taken, and the measurable outcomes or impact achieved for the client. Quantify results where possible.

• Program Management Clarity: For program management examples, detail the project scope, your role, methodologies used (Agile, PMP principles), key challenges overcome, team size managed, and successful delivery metrics.

• Tailor to LINK: Emphasize experience with federal government clients, strategic communication, and visual storytelling. Highlight how your approach aligns with LINK's mission and human-centered design philosophy.

• Conciseness and Clarity: Present information clearly and concisely. Be prepared to walk through your portfolio items verbally, elaborating on key aspects.

Challenge Preparation:

• Strategic Scenario: Be ready to discuss how you would approach a complex problem for a federal agency, incorporating human-centered design and strategic communication.

• Program Management Scenario: Prepare to outline how you would manage a challenging government contract, including risk mitigation, stakeholder management, and ensuring on-time, on-budget delivery.

• Design Thinking Application: Be prepared to explain how you would apply design thinking principles to a government service or policy challenge.

📝 Enhancement Note: Given the role's seniority and client-facing nature, expect a rigorous interview process. A strong portfolio or the ability to articulate past successes in detail, especially related to government clients and human-centered design, will be crucial.

🛠 Tools & Technology Stack

Primary Tools:

• Project Management Software: Familiarity with Agile tools (e.g., Jira, Asana, Trello) and potentially more traditional PM tools for government contracts.

• Presentation Software: Advanced proficiency in tools like Microsoft PowerPoint, Google Slides, Keynote for creating executive-level presentations and strategic narratives.

• Collaboration Platforms: Experience with tools like Microsoft Teams, Slack, Zoom for remote and hybrid team communication and collaboration.

• Design Thinking/Strategy Tools: Familiarity with tools for journey mapping, persona development, workshop facilitation (e.g., Miro, Mural).

Analytics & Reporting:

• Data Analysis Tools: While not explicitly stated, an ability to interpret data and research findings is key. Experience with basic analytics or data visualization tools may be beneficial.

• Reporting Mechanisms: Development and maintenance of program status reports, financial reports, and performance dashboards for clients and internal stakeholders.

CRM & Automation:

• CRM: Experience with CRM systems (e.g., Salesforce) might be beneficial for understanding client engagement and business development opportunities, though not explicitly required for the core role.

• Document Management: Proficiency with cloud-based document repositories (e.g., SharePoint, Google Drive) for organized storage and sharing of project materials.

📝 Enhancement Note: While specific software isn't listed, the role's nature implies a need for strong digital literacy, proficiency in presentation and collaboration tools, and familiarity with project management and design thinking software. The provided technology package will be key.

👥 Team Culture & Values

Operations Values:

• Human-Centered: A core value driving all problem-solving and solution design.

• Partnership: Emphasizing strong relationships with clients and internal teams.

• Clarity: Commitment to untangling complexity and communicating clearly, especially through visual stories.

• Innovation: Encouraging new approaches to strategy, design, and problem-solving.

• Excellence: Striving for high-quality deliverables and client satisfaction.

• Integrity: As a government contractor, ethical conduct and adherence to standards are paramount.

Collaboration Style:

• Cross-Functional Integration: Expect a highly collaborative environment where strategists, designers, engineers, and program managers work together seamlessly.

• Stakeholder Engagement: Proactive and structured engagement with a wide range of client stakeholders, from operational staff to executive leadership.

• Knowledge Sharing: A culture that encourages sharing best practices, tools, and lessons learned across engagements to foster continuous improvement.

• Feedback-Driven: Openness to feedback from clients and team members to refine strategies and improve project execution.

📝 Enhancement Note: LINK's values are geared towards a consulting environment that prioritizes client success through innovative, human-centered approaches. The culture likely supports continuous learning and collaborative problem-solving.

⚡ Challenges & Growth Opportunities

Challenges:

• Navigating Federal Bureaucracy: Understanding and adapting to the complex structures, processes, and requirements of federal government agencies.

• Managing Ambiguity: Leading projects and clients through complex, often ill-defined problems, requiring strong facilitation and strategic framing skills.

• Balancing Strategy and Execution: Effectively bridging the gap between high-level strategic vision and the practicalities of program management and delivery.

• Client Expectations Management: Aligning diverse stakeholder needs and expectations with project scope, timelines, and deliverables.

• Maintaining TS/SCI Clearance: Adherence to strict security protocols and requirements associated with the clearance.

Learning & Development Opportunities:

• Advanced Certifications: Utilization of the $2,000 L&D reimbursement for certifications in PMP, Agile, Design Thinking, or relevant government contracting areas.

• Exposure to Diverse Federal Missions: Gaining experience across various government agencies and mission sets, broadening expertise.

• Mentorship: Opportunities to learn from experienced senior strategists and program managers within LINK.

• Skill Specialization: Developing deep expertise in human-centered design, strategic communication, or program leadership within the federal sector.

📝 Enhancement Note: The challenges are inherent to senior roles in government contracting and consulting. LINK's L&D program provides a clear pathway for continuous professional growth and skill enhancement.

💡 Interview Preparation

Strategy Questions:

• "Describe a time you had to frame a complex government challenge for executive stakeholders. How did you approach it, and what was the outcome?" (Focus on framing, human-centered design, and communication impact).

• "How do you ensure that design strategies are aligned with organizational priorities and mission requirements in a federal context?" (Prepare to discuss strategic alignment, stakeholder input, and process).

• "Walk us through your approach to developing a change management strategy for a large-scale organizational transformation." (Highlight structured planning, stakeholder engagement, and communication). Company & Culture Questions:

• "What interests you about working with federal government clients and specifically with LINK's human-centered design approach?" (Research LINK's mission and values).

• "How do you foster collaboration and alignment within diverse teams, especially when working in a hybrid environment?" (Prepare examples of your collaborative style and experience with remote/hybrid teams).

• "Describe your experience with government contracting. What are the key considerations for successful contract performance?" (Showcase understanding of the unique aspects of government client work). Portfolio Presentation Strategy:

• Structure Your Narrative: For each example, clearly define the problem, your role and methodology, the actions taken, and the measurable results or impact. Use the STAR method (Situation, Task, Action, Result).

• Highlight Government Experience: Emphasize projects directly related to federal agencies, showcasing your understanding of their unique needs and constraints.

• Showcase Human-Centered Design: Clearly articulate how user needs and human-centered principles were integrated into your strategy and design process.

• Demonstrate Program Management Rigor: For program management examples, detail budget, schedule, risk management, and team leadership.

• Visual Storytelling: If applicable, use visuals or brief descriptions of visual products (presentations, infographics) to illustrate your storytelling capabilities.

📝 Enhancement Note: Interviews will likely assess strategic thinking, problem-solving, client management, and program execution skills, with a strong emphasis on experience with the federal government and human-centered design. Being prepared to articulate past successes with specific details and impact will be key.

📌 Application Steps

To apply for this operations position:

• Submit your application through the provided link on greenhouse.io.

• Resume Optimization: Tailor your resume to highlight your 10+ years of experience in strategic communication, program management, or strategy development, with specific mention of government contracting and human-centered design. Quantify achievements whenever possible.

• Portfolio Preparation: Be ready to discuss or present examples of your strategic planning, program management, human-centered design application, and communication strategy work, particularly for federal clients. Focus on impact and process.

• Security Clearance: Ensure your TS/SCI clearance is current and be prepared to discuss its implications for the role.

• Company Research: Familiarize yourself with LINK's mission, values, and approach to human-centered design and federal government consulting. Understand their position as a WOSB.

⚠️ Important Notice: This enhanced job description includes AI-generated insights and operations industry-standard assumptions. All details should be verified directly with the hiring organization before making application decisions.

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