Senior Strategic Initiatives Director, Operations

About Our ClientOur client is a pioneer. Its robot, Digit, is the first to be sold into workplaces across the globe. The team is differentiated by its expertise in imagining, engineering, and delivering robots with advanced mobility, dexterity, intelligence, and efficiency -- robots specifically designed to work alongside people, in spaces built for people. Every day, the organization breaks through engineering challenges and invents new solutions and capabilities that will one day make robots commonplace and approachable. This work is a passion and a responsibility: the mission is to make businesses more productive and people’s lives more fulfilling.About the RoleOur client is seeking a Senior Director, Strategic Operations Initiatives. This is a high-impact leadership role responsible for driving operational alignment, executional excellence, and cross-functional initiatives in direct partnership with the Chief Finance and Operating Officer across various operations groups including, without limitation, manufacturing, supply chain, and facilities.Acting as a trusted advisor and proxy to the CFOO, this role sits at the center of cross-functional execution — bridging operations, strategy, and leadership — and ensures the CFOO's focus is amplified across the organization.This individual will lead high-impact initiatives, manage the rhythm of business for the CFOO, and work across teams to ensure alignment, accountability, and operational clarity. In this fast-paced, scaling startup environment, the candidate will need to be both a strategic thinker and a hands-on operator, capable of diving into the weeds and zooming out to see the big picture.About the WorkPartner closely with the CFOO to develop, manage, and execute strategic operational initiatives and business plans.Act as an extension of the CFOO — prioritizing time, decisions, and focus on what matters most.Drive key strategic and operational initiatives across the company — from planning and execution to reporting and follow-through.Lead and support special projects (e.g., org design, OKRs, new process rollouts, post-fundraising scaling efforts).Collaborate with cross-functional leaders to ensure seamless execution of priorities and resolve blockers early.Own internal communications, dashboards, and updates that help keep teams informed and aligned.Prepare content, materials, and insights for leadership meetings, investor updates, and board meetings.Identify gaps in operational processes or decision-making — and work proactively to close them.Build scalable frameworks that help the company operate with clarity and speed as it grows.Foster a culture of operational excellence, continuous improvement, and cross-functional accountability.About You15+ years of progressive leadership experience in operations, strategy, consulting, or related fields.Proven experience working closely with C-suite executives, ideally in a Chief of Staff or strategic operations capacity.Strong analytical and business acumen; ability to synthesize data into actionable insights.Exceptional communication, influence, and interpersonal skills.Comfortable juggling multiple priorities, navigating ambiguity, and executing at both strategic and tactical levels.Deep understanding of startup dynamics, operational complexity, and the ability to thrive in ambiguity.Trusted thought partner who can challenge assumptions and elevate decisions.Obsessed with clarity, speed, and impact — with a bias toward action.Bachelor’s degree required; MBA or advanced degree strongly preferred.Full-time Employees are eligible for Benefits:401(k) Plan: Includes a 6% company match.Equity: Company stock options.Insurance Coverage: 100% company-paid medical, dental, vision, and short/long-term disability insurance for employees.Benefit Start Date: Eligible for benefits on the first day of employment.Well-Being Support: Employee Assistance Program (EAP).Time Off:Exempt Employees: Flexible, unlimited PTO and 10 company holidays, including a winter shutdown.Non-Exempt Employees: 10 vacation days, paid sick leave, and 10 company holidays, including a winter shutdown, annually.On-Site Perks: Catered lunches four times a week and a variety of healthy snacks and refreshments at the Salem and Pittsburgh locations.Parental Leave: Generous paid parental leave programs.Work Environment: A culture that supports flexible work arrangements.Growth Opportunities: Professional development and tuition reimbursement programs.Relocation Assistance: Provided for eligible roles.Note:“We are not the EOR (Employer of Record) for this position. Our role in this specific opportunity is to connect outstanding candidates with a top-tier employer. Swooped helps candidates around the world to discover and stay focused on the jobs they want until they can complete a full application in the hiring company career page/ATS.”