Manager, Strategic Operations

Quarterhill Inc.; Saskatoon; On-site; CAD 80,000 - 110,000; Full time

Job summary

An innovative firm is seeking a Manager of Strategic Operations to drive high-impact initiatives that align with organizational goals. This role requires a strategic thinker with strong project leadership skills to manage cross-functional priorities and enhance operational efficiency. As a key partner in the organization, you will oversee special projects, ensure financial accountability, and facilitate collaboration between departments. If you're passionate about transforming mobility through intelligent solutions and thrive in a fast-paced environment, this opportunity is perfect for you.

Benefits

Paid days off

Health and Dental plans

Retirement plans

Employee and Family Assistance Program

Employee referral program

Qualifications

• 7+ years of experience in operations and strategic project management.
• Proven experience leading cross-functional initiatives from concept to execution.

Responsibilities

• Collaborate with VP of Operations to execute strategic initiatives.
• Manage special projects across departments for operational excellence.

Skills

Strategic Thinking

Project Leadership

Financial Acumen

Cross-Functional Collaboration

Problem-Solving

Education

Bachelor's degree in Business or related field

MBA or relevant advanced degree

Tools

Power BI

Tableau

Excel

Smartsheet

Job description

Overview

The Manager, Strategic Operations plays a critical role in driving the execution of high-impact initiatives that advance the operational and strategic goals of the organization. Reporting directly to the VP of Operations, this senior individual contributor will serve as a key partner in aligning cross-functional priorities, managing special projects, and delivering operational excellence across departments such as Sales, Engineering, and Manufacturing.

We are seeking a candidate with a strong blend of strategic thinking, project leadership, and financial acumen, who excels in cross-functional collaboration, clear communication, and accountability. The ideal candidate is a proactive problem-solver who thrives in a fast-paced, tech-forward environment and is passionate about systems thinking and operational improvement.

Working at the intersection of transportation innovation, data, and infrastructure, the Manager, Strategic Operations will help translate big-picture goals into actionable plans — contributing directly to the company’s mission to transform mobility through intelligent, connected solutions.

Responsibilities

• Strategic & Operational Support
• Collaborate with the VP of Operations to plan, coordinate, and execute strategic initiatives.
• Ensure the achievement of financial priorities by translating budget targets and strategic objectives into actionable operational plans, fostering clear understanding and accountability among cross-functional teams for their financial contributions and execution responsibilities.
• Track and achieve budget targets, conduct variance analysis, monitor performance, and develop mitigation plans in collaboration with Finance and department leads.
• Project & Program Management
• Manage and lead special projects across departments, including the deployment and optimization of enterprise systems such as electronic timesheets, EPM tools, and expense reporting platforms.
• Coordinate and manage key projects and initiatives, ensuring clear objectives, defined timelines, and successful outcomes that support business goals in intelligent transportation systems, smart mobility infrastructure, or tech-enabled transit solutions.
• Drive operational alignment and accountability by organizing and tracking key organizational priorities — including Sales/Business Development goals, Engineering development milestones, and Manufacturing timelines.
• Process Improvement & Operational Excellence
• Identify and drive process improvements to enhance operational efficiency and effectiveness, including streamlining procurement workflows, optimizing reporting cycles, and improving resource allocation across field and back-office functions.
• Analytics, Reporting & Research
• Conduct research and analysis on industry trends, federal and municipal regulatory changes, grant and funding opportunities, and advancements in technologies like connected vehicles, IoT, and AI to inform operational strategies.
• Prepare reports, presentations, and operational dashboards using tools like Power BI, Tableau, or Excel to track KPIs such as system performance, cost efficiency, and customer satisfaction.
• Communication & Cross-Functional Collaboration
• Facilitate effective communication and collaboration between departments.
• Support budgeting, forecasting, and cost tracking processes related to core operations, strategic initiatives, and capital projects, providing data-driven insights for resource planning and ROI analysis.
• Coordinate internal and external meetings, including leadership reviews and stakeholder forums.
  
  

This list of responsibilities might not cover everything you'll end up doing.

Qualifications

• Bachelor’s degree in Business, Operations Management, Engineering, Finance, or a related field; MBA or relevant advanced degree is a plus.
• 7+ years of experience in operations, strategic project management, business planning, or related roles, ideally within a fast-paced, technology-driven, or infrastructure-related environment.
• Proven experience leading cross-functional initiatives and special projects from concept to execution.
• Strong financial acumen, with experience in budgeting, forecasting, and variance analysis.
  
  

Technical Skills

• Proficiency with project and data tools such as Excel, PowerPoint, and platforms like Power BI, Tableau, Smartsheet, or similar.
• Familiarity with enterprise systems such as EPM tools, timesheet platforms, expense management systems, and ERP software.
• Exposure to product development environments, engineering workflows, or operational scaling in complex technical organizations.
• Knowledge of public sector or infrastructure funding, grant management, or regulatory frameworks related to transportation or mobility is a bonus.
• High level of discretion and professionalism when handling sensitive or confidential information.
  
  

Benefits

We offer a Total Rewards plan designed with you and your family’s health and wellness in mind that includes:

• Paid days off (i.e. vacation, sick days, bereavement leave)
• Health and Dental plans
• Retirement plans
• Employee and Family Assistance Program (EFAP)
• Employee referral program
  
  

We welcome applicants from all backgrounds, regardless of race, color, religion, sex, veteran status, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, age, or disability or any other protected characteristics in accordance with applicable federal, state/provincial, and local laws. We're committed to creating a workplace where everyone feels valued and respected.

We appreciate all responses and will acknowledge only those being considered for an interview.

We respectfully request no calls or unsolicited resumes from Agencies.