Senior Manager, Business Operations

📋 Description

• Take ownership of and propel a portfolio of critical workstreams and initiatives. Convert leadership priorities into actionable plans, coordinate execution among teams, and ensure consistent follow-through. Identify bottlenecks, highlight tradeoffs, and assist in prioritization and resource allocation decisions in collaboration with the COO and functional leaders.

• Perform cross-functional analyses across Finance, HR, Risk, and other operational areas to uncover trends, inefficiencies, and opportunities. Create dashboards as necessary, primarily focusing on translating data into clear insights and recommendations that guide leadership decisions.

• Manage and enhance core operating mechanisms within the Global Shared Services portfolio (e.g., prioritization, tracking, and cross-functional coordination). Optimize workflows, minimize manual tasks, and bolster internal systems. Develop scalable solutions that empower teams to function more effectively as GD expands.

• Discover and implement practical AI and automation opportunities — including workflow automation, analytics enhancement, and knowledge management — aimed at reducing manual effort and enhancing decision-making.

• Lead initiatives such as audit follow-ups, compliance enhancements, cost-efficiency initiatives, and policy implementations. Structure ambiguous problems, align stakeholders, and achieve results across teams.

• Serve as a trusted thought partner to the COO and functional leaders. Assist in diagnosing challenges, evaluating tradeoffs, and crafting solutions to high-impact operational questions, especially where priorities or the path forward may be uncertain.

⛳️ Requirements

• A structured problem-solver with 5–7 years of experience in consulting, strategy, or operations within business or social impact contexts; adept at turning ambiguity into clear, actionable strategies.

• Highly analytical — skilled at using data to diagnose issues, generate insights, and drive decisions (not just reporting on them).

• A builder and operator — experienced in leading complex, cross-functional projects from start to finish and delivering measurable improvements in performance or efficiency.

• Systems-minded — quick to identify inefficiencies and design processes, tools, or workflows that enhance team performance at scale.

• A clear, direct communicator — able to simplify complexity and influence senior stakeholders with concise, well-structured reasoning.

• An influencer without formal authority — capable of aligning teams, navigating tradeoffs, and advancing work across functions.

• Technically proficient — comfortable with spreadsheets, dashboards, and project management tools; eager to apply AI and automation to real operational challenges.

• High ownership, low ego — takes responsibility for outcomes, prioritizes effectively, and follows through on commitments.

• Driven by impact — seeks meaningful work and is enthusiastic about applying skills to assist GiveDirectly in delivering cash to individuals living in poverty more effectively and at greater scale.

🏝️ Benefits

• A supportive team that is dedicated and caring.

• A comprehensive health benefits plan (specific details will vary by country).

• Flexible paid time off that staff are encouraged to utilize.

• Allowances for desk setup and opportunities for learning and development.