Associate Director, Strategy & Operations

Grant Thornton (US)

. Independently lead strategic and operational initiatives sponsored by the Office of the COO from problem definition through implementation and benefits realization .

Posted 11/5/2026full-timeUnited StatesSenior💰 $184,000 - $276,000 per yearWebsite

Core Competencies

Role fit

Core Competencies

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Demonstrates expertise in leading complex strategic and operational initiatives, translating quantitative and qualitative analysis into actionable business insights, and effectively communicating with senior executives. Proficient in developing executive-ready materials and driving accountability across cross-functional teams.

Highest-signal resume keywords

Strategic Initiative LeadershipBusiness Insight DevelopmentExecutive CommunicationAdvanced PowerPoint SkillsFinancial Acumen

ATS Keywords

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Applicant Tracking System Keywords

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Hard Skills

Management ConsultingCorporate StrategyBusiness OperationsTransformationPerformance ManagementOrganizational DesignGovernanceM&A IntegrationData AnalysisDecision Framework Development

Soft Skills

Problem SolvingInfluencing Senior ExecutivesFacilitating DiscussionsCoachingStorytelling

Tools & Technologies

ExcelPowerPointData ToolsProductivity ToolsCollaboration Tools

Certifications & Qualifications

MBAAdvanced Degree in Business, Finance, Economics, or Accounting

Industry Keywords

Professional Services EconomicsOperating ModelsPerformance DriversEnterprise TransformationCross-Functional Collaboration

About the role

Key responsibilities & impact

Independently lead strategic and operational initiatives sponsored by the Office of the COO from problem definition through implementation and benefits realization
Structure complex and ambiguous business questions and determine analytical approaches and stakeholder input
Develop strategic options, business cases, decision frameworks, and recommendations
Translate enterprise priorities into executable plans with outcomes, ownership, milestones, dependencies, measures, and governance
Analyze and interpret business and operational performance to identify drivers, trends, gaps, risks, and opportunities
Translate quantitative and qualitative analysis into management insights and recommended actions
Shape and drive leadership operating reviews and executive decision-making
Develop executive-ready performance narratives connecting financial and operational results with strategic priorities and execution
Partner with business and functional leaders to diagnose performance issues and establish accountability
Serve as a trusted thought partner to senior leaders
Prepare and deliver executive briefings, recommendations, presentations, and decision-support materials
Lead and facilitate executive and cross-functional discussions and drive accountable next steps
Represent the Office of the COO in senior-level working sessions
Act as strategic liaison to Americas member firm leaders
Lead implementation of regional and global priorities across member firms
Identify leading practices and transferable insights across member firms
Advise on organizational design, governance, operating models, decision rights, and ways of working
Design management mechanisms to strengthen prioritization, transparency, decision velocity, accountability, and alignment
Lead multiple high-priority workstreams and establish operating cadences
Drive accountability, address stalled execution, and ensure decisions translate into measurable action
Coach project contributors on problem solving, analysis, executive communication, and delivery quality
Perform other duties as assigned

Requirements

What you’ll need

8-12+ years of progressively responsible experience in management consulting, corporate strategy, business operations, transformation, finance, or a comparable environment
Demonstrated experience independently leading complex, cross-functional strategic or operational initiatives from problem definition through implementation
Demonstrated ability to convert complex analysis into business insight, management implications, and actionable recommendations
Experience regularly engaging and influencing senior executives, including facilitating discussions and presenting recommendations
Strong business and financial acumen
Exceptional written and verbal communication skills, including advanced capability in executive presentations, business storytelling, and decision-support materials
Advanced PowerPoint and Excel capabilities
Proficiency using data, productivity, and collaboration tools
Ability to operate with limited direction, establish structure in ambiguous situations, manage competing priorities, and exercise sound judgment
Bachelor’s degree in business, finance, economics, accounting, or a related field, or equivalent relevant experience
Professional services experience or demonstrated knowledge of professional services economics, operating models, and performance drivers preferred
Experience working across international, multi-country, or member-firm structures preferred
Experience in organizational design, governance, operating model development, enterprise transformation, M&A integration, or performance management preferred
MBA or other relevant advanced degree preferred

Benefits

Comp & perks

Flexible work location, weekly schedule, and flex time off options
Work-life integration options
Personalized and comprehensive benefits
Medical, dental, and vision insurance programs
Employee assistance program
Discretionary annual bonus based on individual and firm performance, subject to plan terms and eligibility
Reasonable accommodation for qualified applicants with disabilities