Principal Technical Program Manager (TPM) Lead

Join our high-impact Program Management (PGMT) team and help lead execution across Microsoft AI Monetization. Our PGMT’s are embedded in the heart of strategic initiatives that power the ai platform shift, create new canvases for monetization growth, enable publisher platforms, real-time systems, and state of the art personalized models. We operate at the intersection of engineering, product, design, and business—ensuring that complex programs are delivered with a customer focus, strategic clarity, and measurable impact.

As a Principal Technical Program Manager (TPM) Lead, you will play a crucial role in managing and leading a team of talented TPMs. You will ensure the successful delivery of programs by effectively managing people, resources, and timelines. You will be responsible for fostering a positive and collaborative work environment, where team members feel valued and motivated to perform at their best.

When needed, you will also step in and own the orchestration of key programs from inception through deployment, working across cross-functional teams that include engineering, product, UX, and data science. You will be responsible for unifying stakeholders around a clear vision and plan, ensuring technical and operational readiness while aligning with Microsoft AI Monetization’s strategic goals.

You and your TPMs will be instrumental in scaling next-generation monetization experiences—from AI-based targeting and bidding to performance telemetry—while ensuring systems are robust, compliant, and efficient. Your success will hinge on your ability to drive clarity, manage execution risk, and elevate program quality across multiple technical domains.

Microsoft’s mission is to empower every person and every organization on the planet to achieve more. As employees we come together with a growth mindset, innovate to empower others, and collaborate to realize our shared goals. Each day we build on our values of respect, integrity, and accountability to create a culture of inclusion where everyone can thrive at work and beyond.

Responsibilities

• Team Leadership
  
  • Team and Resource Management: Lead and mentor a team of technical program managers, providing guidance, support, and development opportunities. Foster a culture of continuous improvement and professional growth. Allocate resources effectively to ensure project success. Identify and address any resource gaps or challenges.
  • Stakeholder Communication and Conflict Resolution: Maintain open and transparent communication with stakeholders, ensuring that project goals and expectations are aligned. Mediate conflicts within the team and facilitate resolution in a constructive manner. Promote a harmonious and collaborative work environment.
  • Performance Management and Talent Development: Conduct regular performance reviews, provide constructive feedback, and recognize achievements. Address any performance issues promptly and fairly. Identify and nurture high-potential team members, providing opportunities for career advancement and skill development.
• Program Leadership & Execution Ownership
  
  • Lead complex technical programs across ad delivery, AI/ML systems, or real-time infrastructure.
  • Define execution strategy and milestones; drive accountability across teams and track progress to deliver on commitments.
• Cross-Functional Influence
  
  • Partner with PMs, engineers, data scientists, and business stakeholders to align technical direction with business goals.
  • Translate vision into executable plans, proactively resolving ambiguity and fostering collaboration across orgs.
• Technical Excellence & Risk Management
  
  • Review system designs, ensure adherence to performance and reliability standards, and manage technical dependencies.
  • Identify risks early (tech debt, integration issues, capacity limits) and drive mitigation plans across stakeholders.
• Communication & Visibility
  
  • Provide program updates and risks to leadership, translating complex issues into actionable, business-aligned narratives.
  • Establish clear visibility into progress, priorities, and KPIs, ensuring LT and partner t