Operations Manager, Data Science & Insights

Company Description

Blend is a premier AI services provider, committed to co-creating meaningful impact for its clients through the power of data science, AI, technology, and people. With a mission to fuel bold visions, Blend tackles significant challenges by seamlessly aligning human expertise with artificial intelligence. The company is dedicated to unlocking value and fostering innovation for its clients by harnessing world-class people and data-driven strategy. We believe that the power of people and AI can have a meaningful impact on your world, creating more fulfilling work and projects for our people and clients. For more information, visit www.blend360.com   

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.