Senior Project Manager

Department: Project Management

Role: Senior Project Manager

Location: United States-Remote

Department Overview

Project Management serves as the operational delivery leader for the account. The team partners with Client Services and business units to translate client priorities into clear, executable plans with defined scope, timelines, resources, and accountability. PM owns delivery governance, project planning, forecasting, risk management, resource coordination, operational financial stewardship, and execution oversight. The department ensures work is delivered consistently, efficiently, and predictably while providing visibility into portfolio health and enabling scalable business growth.

Role Overview

The Senior Project Manager will lead complex projects from initiation through completion, overseeing all aspects of Project Management including planning, execution, monitoring, and closure. This role requires an in-depth understanding of advanced project management principles and the ability to manage large-scale, cross-functional projects. The Senior Project Manager will also mentor junior team members and contribute to the continuous improvement of project management processes .

Key Responsibilities

Project Leadership and Strategic Planning

Define operational financial management: estimate development, project scoping, project goals, and deliverables in alignment with business objectives

Develop comprehensive project plans, including resource allocation, budgeting, and risk management

Lead cross-functional teams to deliver projects on time, within scope, and within budget

Advanced Risk and Issue Management

Proactively identify potential project risks and develop mitigation strategies

Manage complex issues and escalations, ensuring timely resolution

Conduct risk assessments and adjust project plans as necessary to minimize impact

Stakeholder Engagement and Communication

Build and maintain strong relationships with key stakeholders, including senior leadership

Provide regular, transparent communication on project status, risks, and key decisions

Facilitate stakeholder meetings, workshops, and presentations to ensure alignment and buy-in

Resource Management and Team Development

Allocate resources effectively across multiple projects to maximize efficiency

Mentor and support junior project managers and team members, providing guidance and development opportunities

Conduct performance reviews and provide feedback to project team members

Continuous Improvement and Process Optimization

Identify and implement process improvements to enhance project management practices

Develop and maintain project management templates, tools, and best practices

Contribute to the strategic planning and development of the project management office (PMO)

Quality Assurance and Project Governance

Ensure all project deliverables meet quality standards and client expectations

Establish and maintain project governance structures, including steering committees and change control boards

Conduct project post-mortems and document lessons learned

Financial Management

Oversee operational project financial management, including estimate development, budget monitoring, burn tracking, pacing, forecasting, and delivery variance reporting

Partner with Client Services and Finance to ensure alignment with approved budgets and client commitments

What Success Looks Like in This Role

Lead daily or weekly project stand-ups and status meetings

Review and approve project plans, schedules, and budgets

Provide mentorship and guidance to junior project managers and team members

Monitor project progress and adjust plans as necessary to ensure project success

Prepare and deliver high-level reports and presentations to stakeholders

Manage risks, issues, and escalations, ensuring they are addressed promptly

Oversee resource allocation and ensure optimal team performance

Required Knowledge and Skill Set

Advanced Knowledge of Project Management Methodologies

Expertise in multiple project management methodologies (e.g., Agile, Scrum, Waterfall)

Experience leading complex projects across various industries or sectors

Strong Leadership and Decision-Making Skills

Proven ability to lead and motivate cross-functional team

Strong problem-solving skills and the ability to make critical decisions under pressure

Excellent Communication and Interpersonal Skills

Exceptional written and verbal communication skills, with the ability to present complex information clearly to all levels of stakeholders

Experience in managing high-level stakeholder relationships and negotiations

Advanced Risk Management Skills

Expertise in risk identification, assessment, and mitigation planning

Ability to navigate and resolve complex project issues and conflicts

Financial Acumen

Experience managing project budgets, financial reporting, and cost control

Understanding of financial principles and how they impact project outcomes

Mentorship and Coaching Abilities

Ability to mentor and develop junior project managers and team members

Experience in fostering a culture of learning and continuous improvement

Education & Qualifications

Minimum of 3-5 years in a Project Management role, 2+ years' experience with pharmaceutical clients

Bachelor’s Degree

Experience in the media industry, preferably within a media agency setting, with a strong understanding of media planning and activation workflows, campaign execution, vendor management, client relationship dynamics, budgeting, timelines, and cross-functional collaboration across strategy, analytics, media, and project management teams

PMP (Project Management Professional) or equivalent certification is a plus

Experience managing large-scale, complex projects, preferably in a global or cross-functional environment

• Interested?
• Apply by submitting your resume and a brief note outlining your healthcare or media experience.

Underscore Marketing is a woman-owned, independent agency specializing in life sciences. Since 2002, we've helped clients gain a competitive edge through bold, data-driven promotional strategies that deliver measurable results.

Our team comprises media, strategy, and omnichannel analytics experts who thrive on collaboration, innovation, and results. When you join Underscore, you become part of a dynamic environment where your ideas matter, your growth is supported, and your work helps elevate brands in a competitive healthcare landscape.

If you're passionate about making a difference and want to be part of a team that values integrity, creativity, and results, if that sounds like you, we invite you to share.

• Equal Employment Opportunity Statement
• Underscore is committed to creating a diverse and inclusive workplace. We provide equal employment opportunities to all employees and applicants without regard to race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity or expression, national origin, age, disability, genetic information, veteran status, or any other protected characteristic under applicable law. We believe that diversity drives innovation and success, and we welcome candidates from all backgrounds to apply.