Strategic Execution Lead, Managed Services

Baker Tilly US; Chicago (IL); On-site; USD 164,780 - 312,420; Full time

Job summary

A leading advisory and tax firm in Chicago is seeking a Strategic Execution Lead to translate strategic vision into operational reality. In this role, you will drive cross-functional execution and enhance organizational performance by aligning with firm-wide priorities. The ideal candidate will have a Bachelor’s degree and over 10 years of related experience, including project management expertise. A commitment to quality, attention to detail, and exceptional client service are essential. The position offers a competitive compensation range of $164,780 to $312,420.

Qualifications

• Minimum of ten (10) years of related experience; prior industry and consulting experience preferred.
• Demonstrated management and project management skills required.
• Ability to lead and supervise others with exceptional client service standards.

Responsibilities

• Act as a trusted advisor to the Managing Partner and translate strategic vision into operational reality.
• Drive planning rhythms and lead cross-functional teams to execute initiatives.
• Monitor execution of strategic plans and optimize outcomes.

Skills

Project Management

Analytical skills

Interpersonal skills

Communication skills

Microsoft Office Suite

Education

Bachelor’s Degree or equivalent years of experience

Job description

Strategic Execution Lead, Managed Services

Baker Tilly is a leading advisory, tax and assurance firm, providing clients with a genuine coast‑to‑coast and global advantage in major regions of the U.S. and many of the world’s leading financial centers. Baker Tilly Advisory Group, LP and Baker Tilly US, LLP (Baker Tilly) provide professional services through an alternative practice structure, in accordance with the AICPA Code of Professional Conduct and applicable laws, regulations and professional standards.

Job Description

The Strategic Execution Lead, Managed Services serves as a key advisor to the Managing Partner, translating strategic vision into operational reality. This role drives cross‑functional execution, enhances organizational performance, and ensures alignment with firm‑wide priorities within the service line.

Strategic Leadership & Advisory Support

• Act as a trusted advisor to the Managing Partner, providing insights and recommendations to inform high‑impact decisions.
• Act as a strategic thought partner to the MS Platform Leader—helping shape priorities, track progress, and identify new opportunities.
• Translate firm and service line strategies into actionable plans, ensuring alignment with organizational goals.
• Drive planning rhythms (e.g., OKRs, strategic initiatives, performance reviews) and ensure alignment across functions.
• Lead cross‑functional teams to execute strategic initiatives and drive transformation.
• Facilitate annual strategic planning in partnership with enterprise strategy, industry, and business line leaders.
• Monitor execution of strategic plans, tracking progress and adjusting initiatives to optimize outcomes.
• Develop and deliver strategic materials for leadership forums (e.g., Principal Meetings, SL Leadership Meetings, BTAG Board, SLT, Advisory Working Group).
• Ensure service line initiatives reinforce and reflect firm‑wide strategic priorities.
• Anticipate leadership needs and proactively support the Managing Partner in navigating complex decisions.
• Participate in merger and integration efforts, supporting onboarding of incoming leaders and resolving leadership‑related issues.
• Lead or coordinate special projects tied to growth, digital enablement, or firm‑building initiatives.
• Analyze data, market trends, and internal metrics to guide decision‑making.
• Translate business goals into clear workstreams and follow through on execution.
• Support internal communications, project governance, and cross‑functional collaboration.
• Coordinate strategic communications and stakeholder engagement to maintain leadership alignment.

Operational Excellence & Initiative Management

• Oversee practice performance functions, including technology, innovation, and methodology.
• Lead key projects to identify inefficiencies and implement process improvements.
• Provide analytical insights to support service line performance and leadership decision‑making.
• Represent the service line in firm‑wide initiatives and cross‑functional programs.
• Collaborate with risk and compliance teams to assess and mitigate strategic and operational risks.
• Collaborate with other support functions—including ARC, PPG, and operational teams—in support of the service line.
• Support and guide the Practice Management team to ensure operational alignment and execution.

Cross‑Functional Collaboration & Communications

• Represent the service line in strategic firm‑wide initiatives (e.g., OSIM, IMO for M&A, Complementary Workforce).
• Partner with ESO functions to enhance data, resource, and risk management capabilities.
• Serve as the communications lead for service line initiatives, cascading firm messaging and supporting Managing Partner communications.
• Coordinate leadership meeting agendas, materials, and outreach activities.
• Maintain strong relationships across service lines and industries to share best practices and drive alignment.

Qualifications

• Bachelor’s Degree or equivalent years of experience.
• Minimum of ten (10) years of related experience; previous related industry and consulting experience highly preferred; a minimum of eight (8) years of supervisory responsibilities highly preferred.
• Demonstrated management, analytical, organization, interpersonal, project management, communication skills, and highly developed Microsoft Suite skills (Word, Excel) required.
• Excellent Project Management skills with proven success leading projects.
• Ability to lead and supervise others, provide exceptional client service, demonstrate commitment to continuous learning, see the “big picture” as well as the details, display appropriate ethical knowledge and commitment, and exhibit a sense of urgency and commitment to quality and the timely completion of projects.
• Ability to decompose scope into detailed activities and deliverables, then conduct work package handoff to delivery resources from Baker Tilly, client team, and third party vendors.
• The highest levels of technical competence in field of specialization.
• High level of ethical knowledge and commitment.
• Superior ability and proven effective oral, written, and interpersonal skills computer software skills appropriate to the specific field.
• Proven organizational and problem‑solving skills.
• A sense of urgency and a commitment to timely completion of projects.
• Attention to detail along with a commitment to quality and confidentiality.

The compensation range for this role is $164,780 to $312,420. Actual compensation is influenced by a variety of factors including but not limited to skills, experience, qualifications, and geographic location.

All qualified internal candidates will be considered for this position, irrespective of their current geographic location.

Baker Tilly is an equal opportunity/affirmative action employer. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, national origin, disability or protected veteran status, gender identity, sexual orientation, or any other legally protected basis, in accordance with applicable federal, state or local law.