Sr Director, Strategy & Operations

The Senior Director, Strategy & Operations at Visa holds a crucial role in defining and implementing the Intelligence & Data Solutions strategy. Responsibilities include aligning regional objectives with global strategy, providing strategic input into product roadmaps, and offering insights that support business growth. The director will also drive process improvements, develop value propositions, explore partnerships, manage financial performance, and ensure the organization's future-proofing through an evolved operating model.

The position requires substantial relevant experience in management consulting or a similar role within data-driven organizations. A strong understanding of Visa and client business models, financial services, and previous experience in analytics is preferred. Candidates should possess advanced knowledge of Microsoft Office, exceptional communication skills, proven ability to manage multiple projects, and excellent analytical capabilities to translate data into actionable insights.

In this role, the Senior Director, Strategy & Operations will define and implement strategic initiatives that leverage Visa's data capabilities, driving innovation in customer experience and operational efficiency. By exploring new partnerships and enhancing product offerings, the director will help Visa maintain its competitive edge in the payments landscape, ensuring the integration of efforts across various teams.

The Senior Director, Strategy & Operations will oversee a globally dispersed team of over 400 data scientists and data engineers within the Intelligence & Data Solutions unit. Collaboration with various stakeholders across the organization will be crucial for ensuring the successful adoption of strategic initiatives and optimizing operational practices.

Yes, the Senior Director, Strategy & Operations position at Visa is a hybrid role. The specific expectations regarding in-office days will be determined by the hiring manager, allowing flexibility in work arrangements while maintaining team collaboration.

To define and implement a strategy for the Intelligence & Data Solutions, I would start by conducting a thorough analysis of current regional and global objectives. Engaging with key stakeholders for insights and feedback would also be essential. From there, I would outline measurable goals, set clear priorities, and ensure a cohesive roadmap that aligns resources and capabilities to achieve those goals effectively.

In my previous role, I faced a situation where the team was hesitant to adopt a new data analytics tool. I organized a workshop to demonstrate the tool's potential by showcasing real-time data solutions and success stories. By illustrating its impact on project outcomes, I was able to influence the team's perception, resulting in widespread adoption and more efficient processes.

To improve processes, I would first conduct an audit of current operations to identify bottlenecks or inefficiencies. Engaging team members to gather input on challenges would be crucial. Next, I'd prioritize process improvement initiatives based on impact and feasibility, employing agile project management techniques to implement changes rapidly while ensuring thorough training for team members.

Building strategic partnerships requires a clear understanding of mutual goals. I approach partnership development by identifying potential collaborators who align with our mission and values. Engaging in open communication to explore synergies, organizing joint initiatives, and fostering relationships through regular check-ins ensures the partnership evolves and provides tangible benefits to all parties.

Essentials metrics for measuring the success of Intelligence & Data Solutions would include revenue growth attributable to new data products, customer satisfaction scores post-implementation, number of strategic partnerships formed, and efficiencies gained in data processing. Regularly tracking these metrics ensures that we stay on target and can pivot strategies when necessary.

In my previous roles, I frequently utilized financial indicators such as ROI, profitability ratios, and cost-benefit analyses to guide decision-making. Utilizing these metrics allowed me to assess the viability of new initiatives and adjust strategies based on financial performance data, ultimately steering the organization towards sustainable growth.

Ensuring alignment begins with understanding the overarching global goals and then contextualizing them within regional frameworks. Regular communication with regional teams is critical; I would facilitate strategy alignment meetings, share best practices, and gather feedback to adapt our strategy that resonates locally while supporting global initiatives.

Managing multiple projects with evolving requirements involves prioritization and flexibility. I employ project management tools to track progress and maintain a clear overview of all initiatives. I also advocate for open communication with stakeholders to promptly address changing needs, allowing for agile adjustments without losing sight of strategic objectives.

To cultivate a data-driven culture, I advocate for accessible training programs and workshops focusing on data literacy. Encouraging team members to use data in their daily decision-making is crucial; I'd implement data dashboards showcasing performance metrics and celebrate data-driven successes to illustrate the tangible benefits of this cultural shift.

I stay updated by engaging with professional networks, attending industry conferences, subscribing to leading technology journals, and participating in online courses. I believe in continuous learning, which enables me to implement innovative solutions and strategically leverage emerging trends within Visa's operations.