Application Guide

How to Apply for Program Manager

at CEATI

🏢 About CEATI

CEATI is a unique, solution-driven network that connects power industry professionals across Canada and beyond, enabling collaborative R&D and knowledge exchange. Working here means being at the heart of an organization that directly helps utilities solve their biggest challenges, making a tangible impact on the energy sector's future.

About This Role

As a Program Manager, you will manage a portfolio of member programs and research initiatives, partnering with Technical Advisors and stakeholders to prioritize investments and maximize member value. This role is impactful because you'll directly shape the strategic direction of collaborative research, ensuring that member needs are met and that CEATI delivers tangible value to its utility members.

💡 A Day in the Life

A typical day might start with checking emails and messages from members and team members, then moving into a virtual meeting with Technical Advisors to discuss project progress. You might spend time analyzing program performance data, preparing a presentation for an upcoming webinar, and reaching out to members to gather feedback. The day would end with updating project plans and coordinating with the commercial team on retention strategies.

🎯 Who CEATI Is Looking For

  • Proven experience in program or project management, ideally in a membership-based, research, or utility/energy sector context.
  • Strong analytical skills with the ability to use data, benchmarking insights, and member feedback to drive strategic decisions.
  • Excellent relationship management and communication skills, comfortable presenting to and facilitating discussions with industry professionals.
  • Ability to collaborate effectively with technical experts and commercial teams to align priorities, budgets, and deliverables.

📝 Tips for Applying to CEATI

1

Tailor your resume to highlight specific examples of managing research programs or initiatives, especially those involving multiple stakeholders and budget oversight.

2

Quantify your achievements in previous roles, such as 'increased member engagement by X%' or 'managed a portfolio of $X in research projects'.

3

In your cover letter, explicitly mention your interest in the energy/power industry and how your skills align with CEATI's collaborative R&D model.

4

Research CEATI's current programs and initiatives, and reference them in your application to show you've done your homework.

5

Since the role is remote, emphasize your experience with virtual collaboration tools and your ability to work independently while maintaining strong relationships.

✉️ What to Emphasize in Your Cover Letter

['Highlight your experience in managing programs or projects from conception to completion, emphasizing your ability to balance strategic priorities with operational execution.', 'Demonstrate your ability to build and maintain strong relationships with diverse stakeholders, particularly in a membership-driven environment.', "Showcase your data-driven approach to decision-making, providing examples of how you've used feedback and metrics to improve program outcomes.", "Express enthusiasm for the energy sector and CEATI's mission of collaborative knowledge exchange, and explain why you're excited to contribute."]

Generate Cover Letter →

🔍 Research Before Applying

To stand out, make sure you've researched:

  • Explore CEATI's website to understand their current programs, research areas, and how they deliver value to members.
  • Look into recent news or publications from CEATI to understand their strategic focus and any recent achievements.
  • Research the Canadian power industry landscape, including key challenges and trends, to speak knowledgeably about the context.
  • Check if CEATI has a presence on LinkedIn or other professional networks to see their culture and any employee insights.

💬 Prepare for These Interview Topics

Based on this role, you may be asked about:

1 How would you approach prioritizing investments across a portfolio of research programs with limited resources?
2 Describe a time you used member or customer feedback to improve a program or service. What was the outcome?
3 How do you facilitate productive discussions in meetings or workshops with technical experts and non-technical stakeholders?
4 What strategies would you use to increase member engagement and satisfaction in a remote environment?
5 How do you ensure alignment between technical advisors, commercial teams, and members on project timelines and deliverables?
Practice Interview Questions →

⚠️ Common Mistakes to Avoid

  • Avoid a generic cover letter that doesn't mention CEATI or the specific role; tailor it to show your genuine interest.
  • Don't overlook the importance of data and analytics in the role; be sure to highlight your quantitative skills.
  • Avoid focusing solely on technical aspects; this role requires strong relationship management and communication, so emphasize those soft skills.

📅 Application Timeline

⏰ Deadline: November 8, 2026

We recommend applying at least a few days early to avoid last-minute technical issues.

Typical hiring timeline:

1

Application Review

1-2 weeks

2

Initial Screening

Phone call or written assessment

3

Interviews

1-2 rounds, usually virtual

Offer

Congratulations!

Ready to Apply?

Good luck with your application to CEATI!