Manager, Strategic Operations

Overview

The **Manager, Strategic Operations** plays a critical role in driving the execution of high-impact initiatives that advance the operational and strategic goals of the organization. Reporting directly to the VP of Operations, this senior individual contributor will serve as a key partner in aligning cross-functional priorities, managing special projects, and delivering operational excellence across departments such as Sales, Engineering, and Manufacturing.

Working at the intersection of transportation innovation, data, and infrastructure, the Manager, Strategic Operations will help translate big-picture goals into actionable plans — contributing directly to the company’s mission to transform mobility through intelligent, connected solutions.

**Responsibilities**:
**Strategic & Operational Support**
- Provide direct support to the VP of Operations in planning, coordinating, and executing strategic and operational initiatives, serving as a trusted thought partner and key liaison across business units.
- Deliver on financial priorities by translating budget targets and strategic objectives into actionable operational plans, ensuring cross-functional teams understand their financial contributions and execution responsibilities.
- Ensure budget targets are tracked and achieved, including variance analysis, performance monitoring, and escalation of risks or gaps, with mitigation plans developed in collaboration with Finance and department leads.

**Project & Program Management**
- Manage and lead special projects across departments, including the deployment and optimization of enterprise systems such as electronic timesheets, EPM tools, and expense reporting platforms.
- Coordinate and manage key projects and initiatives, ensuring clear objectives, defined timelines, and successful outcomes that support business goals in intelligent transportation systems, smart mobility infrastructure, or tech-enabled transit solutions.
- Drive operational alignment and accountability by organizing and tracking key organizational priorities — including Sales/Business Development goals, Engineering development milestones, and Manufacturing timelines.

**Process Improvement & Operational Excellence**
- Identify and implement process improvements to increase operational efficiency and effectiveness — such as streamlining procurement workflows, improving reporting cycles, or optimizing resource allocation across field and back-office functions.

**Analytics, Reporting & Research**
- Conduct research and analysis on industry trends, federal and municipal regulatory changes, grant and funding opportunities, and advancements in technologies like connected vehicles, IoT, and AI to inform operational strategies.
- Prepare reports, presentations, and operational dashboards using tools like Power BI, Tableau, or Excel to track KPIs such as system performance, cost efficiency, and customer satisfaction.

**Communication & Cross-Functional Collaboration**
- Facilitate effective communication and collaboration between departments including Engineering, IT, Field Operations, Finance, and Executive Leadership.
- Support budgeting, forecasting, and cost tracking processes related to core operations, strategic initiatives, and capital projects, providing data-driven insights for resource planning and ROI analysis.
- Coordinate internal and external meetings, including leadership reviews and stakeholder forums — preparing agendas, documenting outcomes, and ensuring follow-up on action items.
- Handle confidential and sensitive information with a high degree of discretion, particularly as it relates to financial planning, employee data, and strategic decision-making.

This list of responsibilities might not cover everything you'll end up doing.

**Qualifications**:

- Bachelor’s degree in Business, Operations Management, Engineering, Finance, or a related field; MBA or relevant advanced degree is a plus.
- 7+ years of experience in operations, strategic project management, business planning, or related roles, preferably in a fast-paced, technology-driven or infrastructure-related environment.
- Proven experience leading cross-functional initiatives and special projects from concept to execution.
- Strong financial acumen, with experience in budgeting, forecasting, and variance analysis.

Technical Skills:

- Proficiency with project and data tools such as Excel, PowerPoint, and platforms like Power BI, Tableau, Smartsheet, or similar.
- Familiarity with enterprise systems such as EPM tools, timesheet platforms, expense management systems, and ERP software.
- Exposure to product development environments, engineering workflows, or operational scaling in complex technical organizations.
- Knowledge of public sector or infrastructure funding, grant management, or regulatory frameworks related to transportation or mobility is a bonus.
- High level of discretion and professionalism when handling sensitive or confidential information.

**Benef