Global Business Operations Lead

Job Overview Global Business Operations Lead – Must be on-site 5 days a week in Santa Clara, CA. Responsible for driving strategic alignment, operational excellence, and continuous improvement across all service lines, processes, governance frameworks, and compliance obligations. Ensures a cohesive and effective operating model across the account by integrating strategy, planning, communication, and execution. Partners closely with Account Leadership, service line leaders, and corporate functions to deliver consistent, scalable, and high-performing business operations. Influences stakeholders at all levels and fosters a culture of collaboration, accountability, and innovation. Key Responsibilities Support the Director of Strategic Planning and Account Leadership Team in developing and executing the overall Account Strategy. Drive cross‑functional business planning to establish a clear, consistent, and effective operating rhythm across all services and programs; ensure alignment between strategic objectives, service line priorities, and operational execution. Partner with leadership to maintain a strong internal and client‑facing partnership framework and support corporate programs including Account Health Assessments, Client Insights, and Account Business Planning. Establish and maintain governance frameworks to ensure all KPIs, contractual obligations, and compliance requirements are met; oversee account‑wide performance tracking, reporting, and continuous monitoring of operational effectiveness. Review complex financial and business analyses to drive informed decision‑making and strategic recommendations; ensure consistency and standardization of processes across service lines. Champion a culture of continuous improvement by identifying opportunities, developing solutions, and ensuring effective implementation. Lead and support transformation initiatives focused on process optimization, efficiency gains, and service quality enhancement. Address complex, cross‑functional problems with innovative, scalable, and practical solutions; align business operations processes with evolving business needs and organizational constraints. Proactively engage with service line leaders to understand demand, challenges, and priorities; coordinate across support functions (Finance, People Operations, Technology & Analytics, Procurement) to deliver integrated operational support. Influence and negotiate effectively with senior leadership, key stakeholders, and client groups to achieve desired outcomes. Develop and execute a comprehensive communication strategy across the account and service lines; create executive‑level presentations, dashboards, and reporting packages; lead internal governance meetings, business reviews, and events ensuring clear agendas and alignment. Utilize strong analytical and quantitative skills to interpret complex business and financial data; develop actionable insights and recommendations that drive performance improvements and strategic outcomes. Lead and develop the Business Operations team to deliver high‑quality, scalable operational support; provide coaching, mentorship, and performance management; partner with HR and Account Leadership to recruit, retain, and develop top talent. Oversee key people processes including performance reviews, promotions, and compensation planning; drive a culture of accountability, growth, and continuous learning. Qualifications & Experience Bachelor’s degree (BA/BS) required. Minimum of 7+ years of experience in program management, business operations, or strategic planning within a complex, matrixed environment. Proven experience leading continuous improvement initiatives across governance, financial management, communications, and operational delivery. Strong analytical and quantitative skills with ability to interpret complex data and develop strategic solutions. Demonstrated ability to influence senior stakeholders and lead cross‑functional initiatives. Experience managing competing priorities and solving advanced problems in dynamic environments. Key Competencies Strategic Thinking & Execution Cross‑Functional Leadership Operational Excellence & Continuous Improvement Governance & Compliance Management Executive Communication & Influence Financial & Business Acumen Problem Solving & Innovation Talent Development & Leadership Compensation & Benefits Compensation for the position is $148,750.00 – $175,000.00, commensurate with experience. The company will not pay less than minimum wage for this role. Cushman & Wakefield provides eligible employees with a comprehensive benefits package, including health, vision, and dental insurance, flexible spending accounts, health savings accounts, retirement savings plans, life and disability insurance programs, and paid and unpaid time away from work. Equal Opportunity Employer Cushman & Wakefield is an Equal Opportunity employer to all protected groups, including protected veterans and individuals with disabilities. Discrimination of any type will not be tolerated. In compliance with the Americans with Disabilities Act Amendments Act (ADAAA), if you have a disability and would like to request an accommodation in order to apply for a position at Cushman & Wakefield, please call the ADA line at View phone number on click.appcast.io or email View email address on click.appcast.io. Please refer to the job title and job location when you contact us. #J-18808-Ljbffr Cushman & Wakefield