Senior Manager, Operational Excellence

Key Responsibilities:

• Operational Reviews & Governance:
• Lead and Govern Program Management Reviews (PMRs) to track performance, compliance, and risk.
• Ensure data integrity by maintaining and updating the active client list for accurate reporting.
• Track and manage bench staff utilization, supporting proactive workforce planning.
• Establish, define, and track Key Performance Indicators (KPIs) to measure operational performance, margin health, and process improvement outcomes.
• Collaborate cross-functionally with Business Development and Delivery Directors to ensure proposed staffing on submitted proposals is optimized.
• Create and manage standardized documentation processes across programs to ensure audit readiness (DCAA, ISO-9001, CMMI) and operational transparency using SharePoint or similar collaboration tools."
• Financial & Account Oversight:
• Partner with Directors and Program Managers to ensure margins, account goals, and financial targets align with company objectives.
• Coordinate training and coaching to Program Managers in financial management, including forecasting, revenue, and budget control.
• Collaborate with Contracts, Finance, and Operations to ensure accurate data tracking and timely escalation of issues to leadership.
• Process Improvement, Innovation & Certifications:
• Champion and lead continuous process improvement initiatives (CPI), leveraging Lean, Six Sigma, or similar methodologies.
• Drive operational innovation by applying AI and automation to improve efficiency, streamline processes, and strengthen data-driven decision-making.
• Direct and coordinate company-wide certification initiatives, including ISO, CMMI, and CMMC readiness and maintenance.
• Lead and support change management efforts to ensure smooth adoption of new processes, tools, and standards.
• Executive Support & Reporting:
• Prepare and deliver executive-level reports and dashboards that provide insights into company performance and operational health.
• Act as a key liaison between the COO and functional leaders, ensuring alignment, collaboration, and accountability across the organization.
• Build and maintain strong stakeholder relationships to drive operational initiatives forward.

Responsibilities:

• Bachelor’s degree in business, Finance, Operations, or related field (required).
• Master’s degree (MBA or similar) preferred.
• 7+ years of relevant experience in operations, financial management, or program oversight.
• Strong project and program management, analytical, and communication skills.
• Proven ability to work effectively with cross-functional teams and supporting executive leadership.
• Ability to handle changing priorities and use good judgment when working in challenging situations.
• High degree of integrity and ability to handle confidential matters and sensitive situations with discretion.
• Federal contracting and audit readiness experience (highly desired).
• Knowledge of some AI/automation tools for business operations (preferred).
• Certifications (Preferred/Desired)
• PMP (Project Management Professional).
• Lean Six Sigma Green or Black Belt (highly desirable).
• Knowledge of ISO, CMMI, or other certification frameworks (a plus).