Director, Strategy, Finance Transformation - job 5 of 20

As the Director of Strategy at the Finance Transformation team, your primary responsibilities will include evolving the Finance Transformation strategy, leading detailed analyses to inform decision-making, defining governance structures, and ensuring engagement with key stakeholders. You will also develop metrics and KPIs to track the program’s progress and support the operating model transformation by managing cross-functional teams and overseeing the delivery of key initiatives.

To qualify for the Director of Strategy position within the Finance Transformation team, candidates typically need extensive experience in strategy development and operational change. A background in finance, strong analytical skills, and proven leadership experience with cross-functional teams are essential. Additionally, familiarity with change management practices and strategy implementation in finance functions can greatly enhance your candidacy.

In the role of Director of Strategy, stakeholder engagement is pivotal. You'll proactively engage with various stakeholders, including the CEO, Finance Leadership Team, and Communications teams, to share updates, align on strategies, and ensure that all initiatives are in sync with the enterprise transformation efforts. Strong communication skills and the ability to influence are key to fostering these relationships.

The work environment for the Director of Strategy at the Finance Transformation team is hybrid, allowing flexibility between remote work and in-office collaboration. Employees are expected to work onsite for 3+ days a week, engaging closely with the Velocity Office Leadership team and other departments, creating a dynamic atmosphere for innovation and teamwork.

Project management is a crucial aspect of the Director of Strategy role, as you'll drive the program cadence, manage resources and business stakeholders, and ensure delivery against robust timelines. You'll be responsible for developing detailed plans to guide the organization transformation roadmap, acting as the glue that keeps all efforts organized and on track.

When answering this question, focus on a specific example where you led a transformation initiative. Highlight your process for analyzing current operations, identifying key issues, and implementing change strategies. Be sure to mention any collaboration with cross-functional teams and the measurable outcomes of your efforts.

Discuss your approach to prioritization, emphasizing the importance of aligning tasks with strategic goals. Mention tools or methods you use, such as the Eisenhower Matrix or agile methodologies, to ensure you're focused on high-impact projects while adapting to changing priorities as needed.

Effective engagement requires a clear communication style tailored to the audience. Share how you would present data-driven insights and strategic recommendations in a manner that resonates with executives. Highlight the importance of regular updates and fostering open dialogue to maintain alignment and support.

Describe your change management philosophy, including the importance of stakeholder involvement and communication. Discuss specific steps you would take, such as establishing a governance structure, creating training programs, and collecting feedback to ensure that changes are understood and embedded throughout the organization.

Discuss key performance indicators (KPIs) such as time-to-completion for projects, cost savings, efficiency improvements, and employee satisfaction. Emphasize how tracking these metrics can provide insights into the effectiveness of the transformation efforts and support data-driven decision-making.

Conflict resolution requires active listening and empathy. Discuss how you would first seek to understand the perspectives of all parties involved before finding common ground. Describe your collaborative approach to problem-solving and how you strive to maintain a positive team environment.

Mention specific tools, such as Asana, Trello, or Gantt charts, along with methodologies like Agile or Waterfall, that you’ve successfully applied in managing transformation projects. Illustrate how these tools help keep teams organized, facilitate updates, and ensure timelines are met.

Provide a concrete example where you led a cross-functional project. Detail your role, the challenges faced, the strategies implemented to navigate these challenges, and the positive outcomes achieved, ensuring to highlight your leadership and collaborative skills in the process.

Discuss your methods for maintaining alignment, such as regular check-ins with leadership teams, incorporating stakeholder feedback, and ensuring that finance objectives are clearly linked to the company's strategic vision. This connection reinforces the importance of finance initiatives in driving overall company success.

Articulate that an operating model acts as a blueprint for how finance functions operate. Discuss its role in defining processes, governance structures, and resource allocation. Stress that a well-designed operating model is essential for efficiency, clarity, and supporting seamless transformation within finance operations.