The Planning and Strategy Consultant is essential to advancing the strategic priorities of Optum Operations by providing leadership, analytical rigor, and strategic insight across multiple domains. This role requires end-to-end oversight of initiatives, including framing the problem, collecting and analyzing data and process information and communicating findings to leaders that are aligned to business priorities to drive decision-making. The ideal candidate brings solid analytical skills, operational discipline, and the ability to work in a matrixed environment.
You'll enjoy the flexibility to work remotely * from anywhere within the U.S. as you take on some tough challenges. For all hires in the Minneapolis or Washington, D.C. area, you will be required to work in the office a minimum of four days per week.
Primary Responsibilities:- Provide strategic planning and direction:
- Drive stakeholder alignment by creating data-driven points of view that are aligned to business priorities and goals
- Translate complex data and strategic concepts into clear, actionable insights for diverse internal audiences
- Lead/mentor cross-functional teams, fostering a culture of innovation and data-drive decisioning
- Review and enhance the work of others, providing strategic guidance and developmental feedback
- Drive operational performance and projects
- Develop and manage business plans that support long-term objectives and performance goals
- Support integration of services and alignment of performance and service levels with enterprise-wide standards across key operational functions
- Partner across operations, technology, digital, and experience teams to identify and advance initiatives that enhance operational efficiency and reduce manual interventions
- Conduct financial and operational analyses to address leadership inquiries, identify cost drivers and performance trends, and translate findings into actionable recommendations
- Develop financial and investment insights that support capital portfolio governance, funding decisions, and long-term strategic planning across operational priorities
- Lead implementation and optimization of transaction-based billing models to improve cost transparency and operational efficiency
- Monitor and analyze operational cost drivers, capital investments, and workforce trends to inform strategic decision-making and resource planning
You'll be rewarded and recognized for your performance in an environment that will challenge you and give you clear direction on what it takes to succeed in your role as well as provide development for other roles you may be interested in.
Required Qualifications:- 4+ years in strategic operations, business planning, or healthcare operations leadership
- Experience in project management or process optimization.
- Proven track record in leading complex, cross-functional initiatives and projects
- Proven solid analytical and conceptual thinking skills
- Proven ability to solve complex problems and develop innovative solutions
- Proven excellent communication and leadership skills
- Proven ability to manage up and set clear expectations for delivery
*All employees working remotely will be required to adhere to UnitedHealth Group's Telecommuter Policy
Pay is based on several factors including but not limited to local labor markets, education, work experience, certifications, etc. In addition to your salary, we offer benefits such as, a comprehensive benefits package, incentive and recognition programs, equity stock purchase and 401k contribution (all benefits are subject to eligibility requirements). No matter where or when you begin a career with us, you'll find a far-reaching choice of benefits and incentives. The salary for this role will range from $91,700 - $163,700 annually based on full-time employment. We comply with all minimum wage laws as applicable.
Application Deadline: This will be posted for a minimum of 2 business days or until a sufficient candidate pool has been collected. Job posting may come down early due to volume of applicants.
