Director, Data Transformation & Strategic Operations

hackajob is collaborating with Vanguard to connect them with exceptional professionals for this role.Director, Data Transformation & Strategic Operations (M5)Build the operating engine behind Vanguard's data transformationCome join the Enterprise Data Architecture & Engineering (EDA&E) organization within Vanguard’s Chief Technology Office (CTO) at a defining moment in Vanguard’s evolution to become an AI‑driven organization.Delivering on that ambition requires more than modern platforms and architecture – it requires disciplined execution, strong operating rhythms, and enterprise‑grade transformation leadership. This role exists to build and run that engine.As Director, Data Transformation & Strategic Operations, you will sit at the intersection of strategy and execution, ensuring Vanguard’s enterprise data initiatives are planned, governed, communicated, and delivered with clarity, rigor, and impact. This is a rare opportunity to join at the ground floor of a multi‑year transformation and help shape how the enterprise operates at scale.Role SummaryThe Director, Data Transformation & Strategic Operations is accountable for the transformation control tower for EDA&E.In This Role, You WillOrchestrate enterprise‑scale, multi‑year transformation deliveryRun the operating rhythm of the EDA&E organizationManage strategic consulting partnershipsLead the “chief of staff” function for EDA&E leadership teamBring together portfolio delivery, strategic planning, organizational enablement, and executive narrative into one cohesive function focused on execution excellence and measurable outcomes.Partner closely with enterprise architects, engineering leaders, data product leaders, Finance, HR, and senior business stakeholders to ensure that Vanguard’s data and AI strategy translates into durable enterprise progress.What You Will DoEnterprise Data Transformation LeadershipLead large‑scale, multi‑year, cross‑divisional data and technology transformation initiativesTranslate enterprise priorities into integrated, outcome‑based EDA&E roadmaps spanning architecture, platforms, operating model change, and adoptionServe as the central point of coordination for dependencies, risks, trade‑offs, and execution decisions across a federated delivery ecosystem.Strategic Operations & Operating RhythmOwn the operational backbone of the EDA&E organizationLead quarterly and annual business planning, integrated roadmap development, and investment sequencing.Define, track, and drive OKRs, execution metrics, and delivery outcomesProduce executive‑ready status reporting, dashboards, and decision narratives that surface progress, risks, and trade‑offs with clarityLead QBR preparation and delivery, ensuring coherent storytelling across strategy, execution, and outcomesEstablish and continuously improve operating cadences, forums, and decision mechanisms that enable speed, alignment, and accountabilityExternal Partner & Consulting OrchestrationLead and govern strategic external partner engagementsDefine scopes, success criteria, governance models, and integration points for advisory and delivery engagementsEnsure consulting efforts are tightly aligned to Vanguard priorities, deliver measurable outcomes, and result in sustained internal capability upliftManage partner performance, value realization, and clean transitions from advisory to internal execution ownershipOrganizational Enablement & ChangeDrive organizational enablement across the data transformation agenda, including:Change managementCommunications and executive messagingOperating model evolutionOrg design and transformation supportEnsure leaders and teams are equipped with the context, clarity, and tooling required to execute effectively.Financial, Governance & ControlsOwn enterprise transformation financials, including multi‑year budgeting, forecasting, resource allocation, and cost managementEnsure strong governance, controls, and audit readiness across the transformation portfolioProactively identify risks, constraints, and trade‑offs, surfacing decision‑ready options to senior leadershipPeople LeadershipBuild, develop, and lead a high‑performing strategic operations and transformation teamSet clear performance expectations, provide coaching and development, conduct performance reviews, and make compensation decisions in alignment with HR policiesFoster an enterprise‑first, outcomes‑driven culture focused on accountability, clarity, and execution excellenceWhat Makes This Role UniqueA high‑visibility enterprise leadership role at the center of Vanguard’s data and AI transformationOwnership of both execution discipline and organizational enablement, not just delivery trackingDirect influence on how Vanguard plans, operates, communicates, and executesOpportunity to build a modern transformation and strategic operations capability, not a traditional PMOQualificationsMinimum of 10 years of relevant business experience, including 6+ years leading large‑scale technology, data, or platform transformationsDemonstrated experience operating in highly matrixed, federated, and regulated enterprise environmentsProven strength in strategic planning, portfolio delivery, and executive communicationStrong financial acumen, including program budgeting and investment governanceBachelor’s degree in a related field (e.g., Computer Science, Engineering, Information Systems) required; advanced degree preferredA Successful Candidate Will BringAn enterprise‑first, execution‑oriented mindsetComfort operating at the intersection of strategy, operations, and leadership enablementThe ability to create structure in ambiguity and clarity at scaleCredibility with senior executives, delivery leaders, and external partners alikeSpecial FactorsSponsorshipVanguard is not offering visa sponsorship for this position.About VanguardAt Vanguard, we don't just have a mission—we're on a mission.To work for the long-term financial wellbeing of our clients. To lead through product and services that transform our clients' lives. To learn and develop our skills as individuals and as a team. From Malvern to Melbourne, our mission drives us forward and inspires us to be our best.How We WorkVanguard has implemented a hybrid working model for the majority of our crew members, designed to capture the benefits of enhanced flexibility while enabling in-person learning, collaboration, and connection. We believe our mission-driven and highly collaborative culture is a critical enabler to support long-term client outcomes and enrich the employee experience.