Strategic Initiatives Lead — Cross-Functional Programs

Optum; San Juan (PR); On-site; USD 90,000 - 120,000; Full time

Job summary

Optum seeks a Manager, Strategic Initiatives in San Juan, PR to lead defined strategic workstreams within the Geo Leadership Office. You will convert priorities into executable plans, establish governance, and drive cross-functional execution with measurable outcomes.

You will coordinate across functions, manage risks, and prepare decision-ready escalations while maintaining clear ownership and timelines. This role emphasizes AI adoption, governance design, and value realization.

Qualifications

• 5+ years of progressive experience leading complex initiatives in a matrixed organization.
• 5+ years converting broad direction into executable plans, governance, milestones and outcomes.
• 5+ years of project or program management covering risks, issues, dependencies and reporting.
• 3+ years influencing senior stakeholders without direct authority.
• Proficient with Microsoft Word, Outlook, Excel, and PowerPoint.
• Bilingual proficiency in English and Spanish (verbal and written).
• Ability to work 40 hours per week across US time zones.

Responsibilities

• Mobilize assigned initiatives by converting an approved priority into a clear charter and plan.
• Confirm stakeholders, accountabilities, decision rights, dependencies, and escalation routes.
• Establish governance forums, review cadences, RACI models, and decision gates.
• Prepare and facilitate reviews focused on outcomes, risks, decisions, and actions.
• Coordinate implementation across stakeholders; monitor milestones and commitments.
• Resolve execution gaps and prepare escalations when leadership action is required.
• Maintain an integrated view of risks, issues, assumptions, and dependencies.
• Present issues with options and recommendations; track actions to closure.
• Create dashboards and briefs showing progress, risks, decisions, and adoption.
• Work with owners to set baselines, targets, and evidence of value.

Skills

Project management

Stakeholder influence

Cross-functional leadership

Risk management

Communication

Education

Advanced degree in business or related field

Tools

Microsoft Word

Microsoft Outlook

Microsoft Excel

Microsoft PowerPoint

Job description

Optum seeks a Manager, Strategic Initiatives in San Juan, PR to lead defined strategic workstreams within the Geo Leadership Office. You will convert priorities into executable plans, establish governance, and drive cross-functional execution with measurable outcomes.

You will coordinate across functions, manage risks, and prepare decision-ready escalations while maintaining clear ownership and timelines. This role emphasizes AI adoption, governance design, and value realization.