Senior Operations Manager

About Wayve Founded in 2017, Wayve is the leading developer of Embodied AI technology. Our advanced AI software and foundation models enable vehicles to perceive, understand, and navigate any complex environment, enhancing the usability and safety of automated driving systems. Our vision is to create autonomy that propels the world forward. Our intelligent, mapless, and hardware‑agnostic AI products are designed for automakers, accelerating the transition from assisted to automated driving. In our fast‑paced environment, we embrace uncertainty, tackle complex challenges, and continuously learn and evolve to build a smarter, safer future. The Role The Senior Operations Manager will translate our customer‑focused on‑road testing strategy into actionable, tactical plans. This role is essential for ensuring the successful deployment and scaling of our on‑road development in Eastern North America. Key Responsibilities Own the end‑to‑end process of deploying our on‑road ADAS testing strategy in Detroit, MI, converting strategic milestones into detailed tactical plans. Deliver key testing outputs and on‑road performance metrics, ensuring goals are met efficiently and effectively. Optimize resource allocation by balancing fleet availability with team schedules for maximum productivity and operational efficiency. Directly manage and allocate work to team members, including a group of operational Shift Leads. Regularly evaluate and adjust operational plans to align with changing customer needs and technological advancements. Serve as a key liaison between strategic planning teams and on‑ground operational staff, ensuring seamless communication and alignment. Implement continuous improvement practices to enhance testing procedures, safety protocols, and overall team performance. Collaborate with the Systems & Enablement Division to deliver on‑road testing across Fleet Servicing and Maintenance, Field Engineering, Operational Safety, Training, Systems and Insights, and Quality Assurance functions in the US and Canada. Essential Qualifications Proven experience in operational management, preferably in automotive testing, tech, or a related field. Strong strategic thinking skills, with the ability to translate high‑level strategies into practical operational plans. Excellent leadership and people management abilities, with experience in managing diverse teams. Demonstrated capability in resource planning and allocation, including fleet and personnel management. Outstanding communication and interpersonal skills, with the ability to effectively interact with various stakeholders. Ability to work in a dynamic, fast‑paced environment, adapting quickly to changing priorities. Desirable Qualifications Understanding of ADAS technology and on‑road testing requirements. This is a full‑time role based in Detroit, Michigan. It operates Monday to Friday but includes on‑call responsibilities at times, including occasional evenings and weekends. Wayve is committed to creating an inclusive interview experience and a diverse, fair and respectful culture that is inclusive of everyone based on their unique skills and perspectives, and regardless of sex, race, religion or belief, ethnic or national origin, disability, age, citizenship, marital, domestic or civil partnership status, sexual orientation, gender identity, veteran status, pregnancy or related condition (including breastfeeding) or any other basis as protected by applicable law. For U.S. candidates only, please visit E‑Verify Notice, Participation and Right to Work. #J-18808-Ljbffr Necessary Ventures