Equinix

Strategy Director, Special Projects

Equinix$166K — $248K *
Business Services
8 - 10 years of experience
Job Overview by Ladders

Qualifications

  • 8+ years of relevant experience, preferably in management or internal consulting
  • Demonstrated success leading complex initiatives with executive teams
  • Exceptional problem-solving, analytical, and synthesis abilities
  • Quick learning capability with adeptness in high-pressure environments
  • Strong executive presence and communication skills
  • High emotional intelligence for effective influencing
  • Proven experience in program and project management

Responsibilities

  • Frame and structure complex initiatives, identifying critical issues and priorities
  • Synthesize data and insights into actionable decision options
  • Guide teams in applying relevant problem-solving techniques
  • Facilitate high-stakes executive decision-making forums
  • Manage escalations and treat setbacks as opportunities for progress
  • Communicate engagement objectives and provide daily direction
  • Lead multiple complex Catalyst programs, maintaining quality and pace

Benefits

  • Comprehensive healthcare coverage beyond provincial systems
  • Life and disability insurance options for employees and families
  • Equinix-sponsored retirement and savings plans available
  • Generous vacation policies and personal time for recharging
  • Employee Assistance Program to support well-being
Full Job Description
Job Summary

The Business Operations Catalyst team is Equinix's internal consulting and sprint execution engine, partnering directly with senior leaders to solve the company's most complex, high-impact enterprise problems. Catalyst engagements typically run 3-6 months, rapidly mobilizing cross-functional teams to drive clarity, decisions, and actionable execution plans before transitioning ownership to the long-term business owner.

A Catalyst Strategy Director, Special Projects is a senior, business-facing leader who leads 1-3 initiatives simultaneously from problem definition through execution. This role partners closely with executive leadership to frame complex decisions, synthesize insights into clear recommendations, and ensure programs deliver measurable business outcomes. You serve as the primary driver, integrator and facilitator, guiding senior leaders through ambiguity, trade-offs, and critical decisions while ensuring work remains enterprise-aligned, actionable, and outcome-driven.

This role requires expert synthesis capabilities, strong executive presence, and the ability to quickly connect dots across strategy and execution - setting the standard for how Catalyst engagements are run.

Responsibilities

Impact Oriented Problem Solving and Decision Making
  • Frame and structure complex, ambiguous programs and engagements, rapidly identifying critical issues, priorities, and interdependencies
  • Synthesize data, insights, and stakeholder perspectives into clear, actionable decision options
  • Guide teams to apply the most appropriate problem-solving techniques. Own, oversee and challenge analytical work (e.g., financial, headcount, operational models) to ensure rigor, root cause clarity, and sound judgment
  • Advise senior leaders on risks, implications, and downstream impacts, balancing strategy, execution realities, and enterprise considerations


Adaptable Leadership and Facilitation
  • Facilitate high stakes, cross functional, and executive decision making forums, including E-Team discussions
  • Set the standard for facilitation and decision framing - ensuring options are enterprise consistent, decisive, and clearly communicated
  • Operate effectively in high pressure, emotionally charged environments with a solution oriented, enterprise mindset
  • Manage escalations in partnership with executive sponsors, treating setbacks as opportunities for progress
  • Coach and mentor more junior Catalyst team members, strengthening problem solving, facilitation, and leadership capability across the team


Synthesis and Strategic Communication
  • Clearly understands and communicates the vision and objectives of the engagement, providing clear day-to-day direction to the team and business leads
  • Own engagement framing and alignment with initiative leadership and executive sponsors
  • Connect disparate inputs and synthesize complexity in real-time, driving clarity, alignment and momentum
  • Communicate difficult messages constructively; listen actively and accurately reflect stakeholder perspectives
  • Distill complexity into clear insights, structured narratives, and compelling recommendations


Program Ownership & Execution
  • Lead multiple complex, multi-work stream Catalyst programs concurrently, maintaining quality, consistency, and pace
  • Establish appropriate governance, operating models, escalation paths, and decision forums
  • Translate strategic intent into sequenced, prioritized execution plans that convert decisions into sustained action
  • Own core program artifacts including charters, RAID logs, integrated project plans, and operating cadences
  • Design and implement repeatable frameworks, templates, and governance mechanisms that strengthen the Catalyst operating model
  • Partner with Change and Communications teams to embed change strategy and proactively mitigate adoption risks


Trusted Partnership
  • Serve as a trusted strategic advisor to the E-Team and senior leaders, influencing decisions through judgment, discretion, and insight
  • Build rapid command of the business and educate leaders on tradeoffs, implications, and recommendations
  • Model and reinforce an enterprise mindset across all engagements


Qualifications

The ideal candidate will demonstrate the following attributes:
  • 8+ years of relevant experience; with management consulting or internal consulting experience
  • Proven success leading complex, cross functional initiatives with senior executives
  • Exceptional problem solving, analytical, and synthesis skills
  • Quick learner and ability to think on your feet
  • Strong executive presence and communication skills
  • High emotional intelligence and ability to influence
  • Highly skilled in navigating ambiguity
  • Ability to pivot between the big picture and the details
  • Tenacity, resilience, and a results driven mindset
  • Proven experience in program and project management


The targeted pay range for this position in the following location is / locations are:

Canada - Toronto Office TRO : 166,000 - 248,000 CAD / Annual

Our pay ranges reflect the minimum and maximum target for new hire pay for the full-time position determined by role, level, and location.The pay range shown is based on our compensation structure in place at the time of posting and may be updated periodically based on business needs. Individual pay is based on additional factors including job-related skills, experience, and relevant education and/or training.

The targeted pay range listed reflects the base pay only and does not include bonus, equity, or benefits. Employees are eligible for bonus, and equity may be offered depending on the position.

Equinix Benefits

As an employee, you become important to Equinix's success. We ensure all your benefits are in line with our core values: competitive, inclusive, sustainable, connected and efficient. We keep them competitive within the current marketplace to ensure we're providing you with the best package possible. So, wherever you are in your career and life, you'll be able to enhance your experience and bring your whole self to work.

Employee Assistance Program: An Employee Assistance program is available to all employees.
Canada Core Benefits: - Insurance: You may enroll in healthcare coverage that is designed to complement the provincial healthcare system, along with life, disability and optional benefit plans that are designed for you and your eligible family members. - Retirement: You may also enroll in Equinix-sponsored retirement or savings plans: Defined Contribution Pension Plan (DCPP), Group Retirement Savings Plan (RRSP) and Tax-Free Savings Plan (TSFA). - Vacation and Paid Holidays: Equinix offers both vacation and personal time, along with various paid holidays for you to rest and recharge. Eligibility requirements apply to some benefits. Benefits are subject to specific plan or program terms, and to change at Equinix discretion.

This posting is a new position within our organization.

About Equinix

Equinix is an internet company that provides data center services for companies, businesses, and organizations. It offers a software application platform designed for digital businesses that help its users to connect to their customers, employees, and partners. The company was founded in 1998 and headquartered in Redwood City, California.

Equinix Careers

Join the vibrant team at Equinix, the world's digital infrastructure company, and be part of a dynamic network of professionals dedicated to redefining the future of the internet. At Equinix, we offer unparalleled job opportunities in an environment that celebrates innovation, leadership, and diversity. Work You’ll Do At Equinix, we empower you to drive your career path forward with a range of employment opportunities, from internships to full-time positions. Our team is at the forefront of digital transformation, providing the infrastructure that powers over 10,000 of the world's leading businesses. Transform your career with Equinix by engaging in work that matters. Our global platform spans across multiple continents, offering you the chance to collaborate with some of the brightest minds in technology and consulting. Lead with Innovation Equinix stands at the intersection of technology, networking, and digital innovation. As a member of our team, you will use your skills to help companies navigate their digital journeys and transform their strategies to thrive in the digital age. Join a team of over 10,000 dedicated professionals worldwide and work on groundbreaking projects that redefine how businesses connect globally. Our leadership in the industry is driven by a commitment to innovation and excellence. Explore Equinix’s Professional Growth and Benefits At Equinix, we believe in nurturing the growth of our employees through comprehensive professional and diversity training programs. Our benefits are designed to support the well-being and continuous growth of our team members, both professionally and personally. Future-proof your career with Equinix’s robust training programs, which are tailored to help you acquire new skills and advance within the company. From technical skills to leadership development, Equinix is committed to your professional growth. Be Part of Our Culture Equinix’s culture is centered on fostering an inclusive and collaborative environment where every team member’s contribution is valued. We celebrate diversity and are committed to creating an inclusive environment for all employees. Our team thrives on creativity and collaboration, and we believe that every team member brings a unique perspective that is crucial for our innovation and success. Join us and be part of a culture that encourages curiosity, creativity, and continuous learning. Stay Connected with Equinix Careers Discover the exciting career opportunities waiting for you at Equinix. Search open positions that match your skills and interests. We are always looking for passionate, curious, and solution-driven team players. Keep up to date with the latest industry trends, career tips, and insights from Equinix professionals through our Careers Blog. Personalize your experience by subscribing to job alert emails, tailored to your preferences and career goals. Join Equinix and transform your future while shaping the digital landscape. Explore job opportunities, submit your resume, and prepare for an interview that could lead to the next exciting chapter in your career. At Equinix, your potential is limitless. SEARCH EQUIINIX JOBS READ CAREERS BLOG Job Alert Emails Tailor your subscription to receive job alerts, latest news, and insider tips directly related to your career interests. Discover the rewarding opportunities that await at Equinix.
Learn more about Equinix
Size
10,944 employees
Market Cap
$60.3 billion
Industry
Net Income
$369.7 million
Founded
1998
5 Year Trend
+12.9%
Revenue
$5.9 billion
NASDAQ

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