Manager of Program Compliance

Job Summary:

Assists the Associate Director of Program Performance in the preparation, coordination, and development of audit and reporting tools. Oversees a team responsible for ensuring compliance with all federal, state, and local regulations related to workforce development program grants. Leads monitoring activities, coordinates corrective action processes, and ensures continuous quality improvement across workforce programs and sub-grantees. Prepares and coordinates audits of The Chicago Cook Workforce Partnership (The Partnership) by funders and outside audit firms and leads in developing responses to findings related to those audits. Performs all tasks associated with the program auditing of sub-grantees to determine and chronicle programmatic compliance.

 Responsibilities:

• Supervise and support a team of Workforce Compliance Specialists in conducting monitoring visits, file reviews, and performance evaluations based on program metrics.
• Develop and implement monitoring tools, checklists, and protocols that align with federal and state grants and guidelines.
• Ensure timely completion of monitoring and performance reports, including analysis, findings, and corrective action recommendations.
• Review and approve monitoring documentation to ensure accuracy, completeness, and consistency.
• Coordinate follow-up on corrective action plans, ensuring sub-grantees address findings within established timelines.
• Develop and train Workforce Compliance Specialists on regulatory requirements and program policies.
• Act as a liaison between the organization and external oversight agencies during audits or evaluations, including participation in entrance and exit conferences.
• Maintain up-to-date knowledge of workforce legislation, policy changes, and best practices in workforce development by attending conference and professional development seminars.
• Contribute to policy development, strategic planning, system improvements, and data quality assurance related to compliance and monitoring.
• Prepare regular reports for leadership on compliance trends, risks, and recommendations.
• Perform all related duties and responsibilities as assigned.

 Required Skills: 

• Excellent time management skills with a proven ability to meet deadlines.
• Strong supervisory, leadership, and communication skills.
• Ability to prioritize tasks and to delegate them when appropriate.
• Strong analytical and report-writing skills.
• Proficient with Microsoft Office Suite; experience with case management systems and databases.
• Ability to work in a racially diverse environment in which working towards racial equity in workforce or economic development, or social service sectors is key.

Education and Experience: 

• Bachelor’s degree in Public Administration, Business, Social Work, Workforce Development, or related field (Master’s preferred).
• At least 2 years of supervisory or management experience preferred.
• Minimum 5 years of experience in a compliance role or in workforce development.
• Experience conducting audits or compliance reviews in a regulatory environment strongly desired.

Physical Requirements:

• Some travel required for monitoring visits and meetings.
• Frequently required to stand, walk and sit.
• Frequently required to utilize hand and finger dexterity using a keyboard.
• Frequently required to talk or hear.
• Occasionally required to lift/push/carry items up to 25 pounds.
• Ability to travel to various locations throughout Cook County