Milan, Italy
Programme Director (Freelance)
At AKQA, we believe in the imaginative application of art and science to create beautiful ideas, products and services. With an entrepreneurial and collaborative approach, we design adaptive digital services and applications that capture the imagination, delivering impressive returns for our clients.
The Delivery team are at the epicentre of all projects, ensuring they’re delivered to the highest quality, on time, and that clients receive the greatest possible value from their investment. AKQA’s process and governance standards are industry leading; providing the tools, training and team support to make this possible.
This is a critical contractor role for a seasoned Program Director to steer the development and delivery of a flagship consumer mobile app for a global Italian Luxury Brand.
This is a freelance role based in Milan. It's a hybrid position requiring significant onsite presence, available for an immediate start until October 2026, with potential for extension.
ROLE REQUIREMENTS
- Assume full, end-to-end responsibility for the multi-stream roadmap of the consumer mobile app, encompassing both Design and Technology workstreams. Ensure strategic alignment and successful execution for our global Luxury client.
- Provide direct management and guidance to dedicated Project Managers (one for Design, one for Tech), fostering a collaborative and high-performing program team.
- Act as the primary interface and central bridge between client Product Owners (across Ecommerce, Client Service, and Content teams) and Digital/IT leads. Ensure crystal-clear communication, alignment, and shared understanding at all levels of the client organization.
- Establish and own the overall program plan, leading weekly progress meetings to proactively identify and resolve dependencies, open points, and develop effective mitigation strategies. Prepare and submit comprehensive Project Status Reports weekly, adhering to AKQA's delivery status report processes.
QUALITIES AND CHARACTERISTICS
- Fluent English (Mandatory).
- Solid and extensive background in Program Management, specifically within complex enterprise environments and managing large-scale, custom-designed, full life-cycle projects.
- Previous experience within the Luxury or Fashion industry is a strong advantage.
- Proven experience in mobile app lifecycles, including a deep understanding of coordinating between UX/UI design and technical development workstreams.
- Strong experience in leading and mentoring project teams, excellent attention to detail.
- Exceptional professional standing and communication skills, with the ability to clearly articulate complex information to senior stakeholders, manage pressure, and maintain alignment in brand-sensitive contexts.
- Must be based in Milan or willing to be on-site several days per week to facilitate effective collaboration and client engagement.
We believe great work happens when we're together, fostering creativity, collaboration, and connection. That's why we’ve adopted a hybrid approach including required in-office days. If you require accommodations or flexibility, please discuss this with the hiring team during the interview process.
AKQA is an equal opportunity employer and considers applicants for all positions without discrimination or regard to particular characteristics. We are committed to fostering a culture of respect in which everyone feels they belong and has the same opportunities to progress in their careers.
