Operations Manager, Data Science & Insights

Job Description

Are you a highly organized and strategically-minded operations professional with a passion for optimizing team performance and driving financial excellence? Blend360 is seeking an Operations Manager to join our dynamic Data Science & Insights team. In this pivotal role, you will be instrumental in ensuring the smooth and efficient functioning of our data science consulting engagements, empowering our world-class data scientists to deliver exceptional client outcomes.

This role requires a blend of analytical rigor, financial acumen, and strong interpersonal skills to manage critical aspects of team operations, resource allocation, and performance measurement. You will be a key partner to leadership, providing the insights and infrastructure necessary for strategic decision-making and sustainable growth.

Key Responsibilities:

• Drive Resource Planning and Optimize Resource Utilization:
  • Lead the comprehensive resource planning process for the Data Science & Insights team, aligning talent with project demands and strategic priorities.
  • Develop and implement tactics to optimize resource utilization, ensuring high billable utilization rates while maintaining team well-being and development.
  • Collaborate closely with project managers and data science leads to forecast staffing needs, identify skill gaps, and facilitate appropriate resource allocation across diverse client engagements.
  • Manage and maintain resource management tools and systems, ensuring data accuracy and providing insightful reporting on capacity, demand, and utilization.
• Manage Financial Forecasting and Performance:
  • Oversee the financial forecasting process for the Data Science & Insights team, including revenue projections, expense tracking, and profitability analysis.
  • Partner with finance and leadership to develop and manage team budgets, identifying opportunities for cost optimization and efficiency.
  • Conduct in-depth financial analysis of projects and team performance, providing actionable insights to drive profitability and strategic investment decisions.
  • Ensure accurate and timely financial reporting, adhering to internal policies and supporting overall company financial objectives.
• Drive Monthly Performance Reporting and Analysis:
  • Develop, prepare, and deliver comprehensive monthly performance reports for the Data Science & Insights leadership.
  • Analyze key operational metrics, including project delivery timelines, client satisfaction, resource utilization, and financial performance, identifying trends and areas for improvement.
  • Translate complex data into clear, concise, and actionable insights, presenting findings and recommendations to stakeholders to inform strategic adjustments.
  • Implement and refine reporting processes and tools to enhance data visibility and support continuous performance improvement.
• Drive Key Team Initiative Priorities:
  • Oversee the progress of key Data Science & Insights initiatives including pipeline reporting and team development tracking

Qualifications

• Bachelor's degree in Business Administration, Finance, Operations Management, or a related quantitative field. Master's degree or MBA preferred.
• 5+ years of experience in an operations, finance, or project management role within a consulting firm or a professional services organization, ideally with exposure to data science or technology teams.
• Proven expertise in resource planning, capacity management, and optimization strategies.
• Strong financial acumen with demonstrated experience in budgeting, forecasting, and financial analysis.
• Exceptional analytical skills with the ability to interpret complex data, identify key trends, and generate actionable insights.
• Proficiency in reporting tools, advanced Excel skills and project management tools is a strong plus.
• Excellent communication and presentation skills, with the ability to convey complex information clearly and concisely to diverse audiences, including senior leadership.
• Demonstrated ability to work independently, manage multiple priorities, and thrive in a fast-paced, dynamic environment.
• Strong interpersonal skills and a collaborative mindset, with the ability to build effective relationships across teams.

Additional Information

At Blend360, you'll collaborate with a smart, passionate group of people who are invested in your success. We offer:

• The opportunity to work with an impressive list of Fortune 500 clients, solving their most challenging data-driven problems.
• A culture that values innovation, continuous learning, and professional growth.
• A comprehensive benefits package and a commitment to work-life balance.
• The chance to make a significant impact on the efficiency and effectiveness of a rapidly growing Data Science & Insights practice.