Operational Excellence Lead

About the Team/Role

This role will play a vital role in driving operational process optimization and efficiency within Global Risk Operations, with an increasing focus on leveraging automation and AI solutions. This role will collaborate with stakeholders and business intelligence analysts to identify areas for improvement, streamline operations, and implement innovative solutions that enable scalability and productivity gains. The Operational Excellence Lead is expected to operate with a high degree of autonomy, leading complex projects and mentoring junior analysts.

How You'll Make an Impact

• Process Mapping and Analysis: Independently lead the documentation and mapping of complex, cross-functional processes, utilizing advanced tools and methodologies. Conduct in-depth analysis to understand current state operations, streamline operational workflows and identify operational efficiencies.  
• Data Gathering and Analysis: Collaborate with business intelligence analysts to interpret complex data sets, translate them into actionable insights, and support operational process improvement.  
• Solution Design: Design and implement operational process improvement solutions that leverage automation, AI, and other emerging technologies. Lead cross-functional teams in the development and execution of complex projects.
• Implementation and Change Management: Develop and execute comprehensive change management plans within Risk Operations teams to ensure seamless adoption of new processes and technologies. Provide expert guidance and support to stakeholders throughout the implementation process.
• Documentation: Develop and maintain detailed process documentation, including process maps, standard operating procedures, and training materials, ensuring alignment with industry best practices and regulatory requirements
• Mentorship and Leadership: Mentor and coach junior analysts, sharing knowledge and expertise to enhance their skills and capabilities. Lead by example, demonstrating a commitment to continuous learning and professional development.

Who will you work with?  

• Internal Stakeholders: This role will work extensively within Global Risk Operations and periodically interface with Technology, Product, Compliance and Finance. Strong communication and interpersonal skills are essential to build relationships and gain cooperation. You will often take a leadership role in cross functional projects, coordinating efforts across teams.
• Business Intelligence Analysts: Partner closely with the business intelligence analyst team to understand data analysis and its implications for operational process improvement. You will be expected to guide and influence the direction of data analysis projects to align with strategic process improvement goals.
• External Partners: May occasionally interact with external vendors and consultants to gather information or support implementation efforts.

Experience you'll bring

• Bachelor's degree in Business Administration, Information Systems, or a related field.
• 5+ years of experience in a Business Process Analyst or similar role, with demonstrated success in process improvement projects.
• Strong business acumen and understanding of operational business process management principles.
• Extensive experience with business process analysis, requirements development, change management activities, and stakeholder engagement
• Deep understanding of technical concepts and the ability to effectively communicate with technical and non-technical stakeholders.
• Ability to interpret and leverage data analysis findings to drive process improvement.
• Exceptional critical thinking and problem-solving abilities, with a focus on identifying and addressing root causes of inefficiencies.
• Proficiency in process mapping tools (e.g., Visio, Lucidchart).
• Excellent communication and presentation skills, both written and verbal.
• Ability to work independently and as part of a team.
• Adaptability and a willingness to learn new technologies and methodologies.
• Enthusiasm for automation, AI, and emerging technologies, with a desire to explore their application in business processes.
• Ability to deliver high quality products using Google Suite.
• Organized, analytical and conceptual thinking
• Strong leadership skills, with the ability to inspire and motivate teams to achieve common goals.
• Detail oriented
• Effective time management and prioritization skills
• Ability to make quick and accurate decisions
• Build effective and trustful relationships

Preferred Qualifications

• Certifications: Lean Six Sigma Green Belt or Black Belt certification is a plus.
• Industry Experience: Experience in the relevant industry is beneficial.
• Technical Skills: Familiarity with project management tools and a basic understanding of AI concepts and their potential business applications.
• Ability to effectively and calmly operate within a complex and changing environment.
• Experience with the identification and execution of process improvement initiatives, using process improvement methodologies
• Knowledge of WEX systems and business processes.