Operations Strategist Jobs in California (NOW HIRING)

We're looking for an Operations Strategy and Planning Manager to join Wayve's Commercial & Operations organisation, acting as a strategic force multiplier for our global Fleet Operations function. This role sits at the intersection of data, strategy, and execution, translating fleet performance and operational complexity into clear strategic direction and actionable plans.

This is an ideal role for someone with a strong consulting or strategy background who wants to apply rigorous analytical thinking to one of the most operationally complex and consequential challenges in technology: deploying autonomous vehicles at scale. You'll work closely with the Head of Commercial Operations and the Fleet Operations leadership team to drive the strategic agenda - from annual planning and headcount modelling to cross-functional initiatives and executive reporting.

Key responsibilities:

• Strategic Planning & Roadmapping: Own the operations annual and quarterly planning cycles - translating organisational priorities into structured plans with clear milestones, owners, and interdependencies across global fleet operations teams.
• Data-Driven Insights: Synthesise fleet performance data, operational metrics, and capacity trends into strategic recommendations that inform leadership decisions and drive continuous improvement across the operations organisation.
• Headcount & Budget Planning: Lead headcount modelling and budget planning for the operations function, partnering with Finance and People teams to ensure resource allocation is aligned to strategic priorities and growth targets.
• Special Projects: Own and drive high-priority, time-sensitive initiatives that cut across teams and functions - from standing up new operational capabilities to supporting commercial programme launches and global expansions.
• Cross-Functional Coordination: Serve as the connective tissue across Wayve's global fleet operations teams - aligning regional leads, surfacing blockers, and ensuring consistent execution against shared goals.
• Executive Communication: Develop high-quality materials for leadership reviews, board updates, and cross-functional forums - distilling complex operational realities into clear narratives that drive alignment and decision-making.
• Operating Rhythm: Design and maintain the operational cadence for the function - including leadership forums, OKR tracking, and communications - ensuring the team is focused on the right priorities at the right time.

In order to set you up for success as an Operations Strategy and Planning Manager at Wayve, we're looking for the following skills and experience.

• MBA or equivalent advanced degree, with prior experience at a top-tier management consulting firm or in a strategy/operations role at a high-growth technology company.
• Strong analytical and quantitative skills - comfortable working with large datasets to generate insights, build models, and support data-driven decision-making.
• Demonstrated ability to manage complex, cross-functional initiatives from scoping through to delivery in fast-paced environments with competing priorities.
• Exceptional communication and stakeholder management skills - able to synthesise ambiguous information into clear frameworks and present confidently to senior leadership.
• Experience leading planning processes (annual planning, headcount modelling, budget management) in a dynamic, scaling organisation.
• A structured thinker with a bias for action - someone who can bring order to ambiguity without losing sight of the bigger picture.
• Comfortable operating with significant autonomy while maintaining close alignment with leadership priorities.

• Experience in operations strategy, fleet management, or logistics in a technology or mobility context.
• Familiarity with autonomous vehicles, advanced mobility, or deep-tech environments.
• Experience building and managing OKR frameworks or similar goal-setting and performance management systems.
• Exposure to financial modelling, scenario planning, or business case development.
• Proficiency with data visualisation and analytics tools (e.g., Tableau, Looker, SQL, or equivalent).
• Experience working across international teams and navigating global operational complexity.

This role is a full-time role based in Sunnyvale, CA (hybrid) and the reasonably estimated salary for this role ranges from $171,000 to $229,000, plus a competitive equity package. Actual compensation is based on the candidate's skills, qualifications, and experience.