Director Organizational Strategy and Business Ops - job 7 of 20

As the Director of Organizational Strategy and Business Ops at Visa, you will be responsible for motivating a cross-functional team to design and launch cutting-edge GenAI products, driving strategic initiatives that enhance productivity and efficiency. You’ll also manage the team’s workforce plan and budget, ensuring resources align with project demands. Moreover, you’ll cultivate a positive organizational culture and act as a liaison between various departments, keeping everyone aligned with the company’s goals.

Candidates applying for the Director of Organizational Strategy and Business Ops at Visa should have a solid background in strategy and operations within the tech industry, specifically related to AI and automation. A minimum of 7-10 years of leadership experience and a proven track record of managing cross-functional teams are essential. Strong communication skills, budget management experience, and the ability to drive cultural initiatives are also crucial for this role.

Visa provides a hybrid working model for the Director of Organizational Strategy and Business Ops role, allowing flexibility between remote and in-office work. Employees are encouraged to maintain a work-life balance, with the expectation of being in the office two to three days a week. This arrangement supports both collaboration and individual productivity while ensuring employees' well-being is a top priority.

The Director of Organizational Strategy and Business Ops role at Visa is unique because it places you at the forefront of Generative AI development while allowing for significant decision-making influence. You will be leading innovative projects that not only enhance Visa's internal functions but also impact customer satisfaction on a large scale. Being part of a fast-paced and Agile team dedicated to revolutionizing technology through AI offers unparalleled opportunities for growth and innovation.

Visa strongly believes in promoting from within, particularly for strategic roles like the Director of Organizational Strategy and Business Ops. You will have access to networking within your own team and across departments, mentorship programs, and professional development initiatives aimed at helping you advance your career. With a commitment to innovation and excellence, Visa offers an environment where strong leaders can thrive and progress.

In this role, prioritization is key. I would assess projects based on strategic alignment with organizational goals, potential impact on productivity, and resource availability. Engaging with stakeholders to understand their needs ensures that we focus on initiatives that deliver the utmost value. Adaptability is crucial, allowing for shift priorities based on emerging trends in the GenAI landscape.

Building rapport is essential. I’d start by establishing open communication channels and getting to know each team member’s strengths and aspirations. By setting clear expectations, recognizing achievements, and involving the team in decision-making processes, I would create an empowered atmosphere that motivates creativity and collaboration.

Absolutely! I recently led a project that implemented an AI-driven automation tool, which improved an internal process by reducing response times by 50%. I guided the team through the entire project lifecycle, from ideation to deployment, and ensured we measured our results meticulously. This experience reaffirmed my belief in the transformative power of AI on operational efficiency.

Handling resistance requires a diplomatic approach. I would fully engage those team members by sharing the benefits of the new technology and how it can streamline their workload. Hosting hands-on sessions to demonstrate its effectiveness and soliciting their feedback fosters trust in the transition while ensuring they feel valued in the process.

In my position, I would track a combination of qualitative and quantitative metrics, including productivity rates, employee engagement scores, and project completion timelines. It’s also essential to gather feedback to understand the user experience. Linking these metrics to business outcomes helps in assessing the effectiveness of the initiatives.

Effective budget management starts with a thorough understanding of resource requirements and project goals. I would implement a collaborative budgeting process, involving key stakeholders to ensure alignment. Regular analysis of expenditures versus the budget ensures that we stay on track and allows for proactive adjustments when necessary.

I would establish regular communication channels such as weekly updates and monthly strategy meetings. Ensuring that leadership is informed about ongoing projects, progress against KPIs, and potential hurdles forms a solid foundation for alignment. A transparent approach fosters trust and reinforces collective commitment to the company’s objectives.

To cultivate a culture of innovation, I’d promote an environment where creative ideas are welcomed and valued. Regular hackathons and brainstorming sessions provide platforms for team members to pitch ideas freely. Celebrating creative successes and learning from failures encourages experimentation, fostering continuous improvement and engagement.

Communication is absolutely vital. My leadership style is grounded in openness and transparency. Regularly sharing updates, encouraging feedback, and being accessible to my team are all key components. Strong communication not only facilitates collaboration but also builds trust and ensures everyone is aligned towards common goals.

One of the biggest challenges will be navigating the rapid advancements in AI technology while ensuring our strategies remain aligned with Visa’s overall mission. Adapting quickly, fostering a culture of agility, and enabling my team to embrace these changes will be crucial in driving successful outcomes and staying competitive.