Summary
Overview
Work History
Education
Skills
Timeline
Generic

Jen Ayers

Atkins,IA

Summary

PMP-certified Project Manager with over 10 years of experience leading technical projects in finance, education, and health sectors. Specialized in software development lifecycle management, system implementations, and compliance-driven initiatives, including ERP conversions and data management systems. Proficient in Agile methodologies (Scrum, Kanban), stakeholder collaboration, and delivering scalable solutions within strict timelines and budgets. Skilled in database design, API integrations, and regulatory compliance (e.g., audit standards). Eager to leverage technical expertise and leadership to advance clinical research data systems at the University of Iowa’s Clinical Trials Statistical and Data Management Center.

Overview

11
11
years of professional experience

Work History

IT Project Manager

Transamerica Life Insurance Company
01.2018 - 10.2024
  • Led the 2024 Integrated GL ERP conversion as Technical Project Manager, applying Agile (Scrum) and PMP best practices to manage cross-functional teams (Actuarial, Finance, Risk, Deloitte, IT), ensuring iterative delivery and compliance with regulatory standards.
    Directed system enhancement and six actuarial model conversion projects, establishing BAU governance, data dictionaries, and secure data management processes for operational efficiency.
  • Provided technical oversight for seven geographically dispersed project teams, using task tracking and version control tools to monitor progress and deliver interactive query reports for executive stakeholders.
  • Established PMO governance, including requirements gathering and risk management, resolving complex technical issues within budget and timeline constraints.
  • Collaborated with IT to implement database security, troubleshoot defects, and deploy fixes, ensuring scalable, high-quality solutions in regulated environments.

Project Manager

Pearson
01.2014 - 12.2017
  • Managed technical projects for Legal Operations, including a web-based contract management system, streamlining processes, reducing labor costs by thousands annually, and ensuring compliance with audit standards.
  • Oversaw software development lifecycle, from requirements analysis to deployment, partnering with stakeholders to evaluate system functionality and implement API-driven data exchanges.
  • Led technology solutions and training initiatives, enhancing department efficiencies through performance monitoring and digital tools, while fostering strong cross-functional relationships.
  • Analyzed business processes, documented specifications, and eliminated liabilities by creating policies aligned with regulatory requirements.
  • Managed data collection and reporting for hundreds of RFPs annually, demonstrating critical thinking and responsive support in high-pressure settings.

District Director

Toastmasters International
01.2014 - 12.2017
  • Provided technical and leadership guidance to 200+ leaders annually, achieving a 9% success rate in skill development through data-driven surveys and virtual event platforms.
  • Designed online surveys and accreditation workshops, certifying hundreds of participants and enhancing communication skills via interactive tools.
  • Implemented Agile-inspired feedback loops to improve member training programs and performance metrics.

Health Coach and Marketing Manager

Health Solutions, LLC
06.2013 - 12.2014
  • Developed data collection systems and marketing materials for health coaching initiatives, improving client outcomes and employee health metrics across the tri-state area.
  • Analyzed training needs and redesigned brand standards, implementing digital solutions for reporting and process optimization.

Education

Project Management Professional (PMP) -

Project Management Institute
03.2024

Agile Methodologies Training (via PMP And Practica -

Project Management Institute
03.2024

MBA -

Mount Mercy University
Cedar Rapids
05.2016

Bachelor of Arts - Business Administration

Coe College
Cedar Rapids
05.2013

Bachelor of Arts - Communications

Coe College
Cedar Rapids
05.2013

Bachelor of Arts - Public Relations

Coe College
Cedar Rapids, IA
05.2013

Skills

  • Technical Project Management: Agile (Scrum, Kanban), Sprint Planning, Backlog Grooming, Task Tracking (Azure DevOps/Jira-equivalent)
  • Software & Data Management: SQL-inspired Database Design, API Integrations, Web Frameworks (HTML, XML, ASP-like tools), Reporting Services, System Debugging
  • Compliance & Regulatory: Audit Standards, 21 CFR Part 11 Awareness, Secure Data Management
  • Analytical & Problem-Solving: Data Analysis, Business Process Design, Performance Monitoring
  • Leadership & Communication: Cross-Functional Team Leadership, Stakeholder Engagement, Mentoring
  • Tools: Visual Studio-like environments, Microsoft SQL-equivalent systems, JavaScript for reports

Timeline

IT Project Manager

Transamerica Life Insurance Company
01.2018 - 10.2024

Project Manager

Pearson
01.2014 - 12.2017

District Director

Toastmasters International
01.2014 - 12.2017

Health Coach and Marketing Manager

Health Solutions, LLC
06.2013 - 12.2014

Project Management Professional (PMP) -

Project Management Institute

Agile Methodologies Training (via PMP And Practica -

Project Management Institute

Bachelor of Arts - Business Administration

Coe College

Bachelor of Arts - Communications

Coe College

Bachelor of Arts - Public Relations

Coe College

MBA -

Mount Mercy University