Smartphone Strategic Initiatives Lead

About the Role:

We are seeking a highly motivated and experienced Strategic Program Manager to lead the planning and execution of key strategic programs within our smartphone division. This role will be instrumental in driving growth, improving operational efficiency, and ensuring the successful launch of new geography, channels, products and services. The ideal candidate will be a strategic thinker with a proven track record of managing complex, cross-functional programs in the fast-paced technology landscape, specifically within the smartphone or mobile device industry. They will be comfortable navigating ambiguity, influencing without direct authority, and employing structured problem-solving approaches to drive successful outcomes.

Responsibilities:

- Strategic Planning: Collaborate with senior leadership to define the strategic roadmap for key programs, aligning them with overall business objectives and market trends. This includes market analysis, competitive assessment, and identifying opportunities for innovation.

- Program Management: Lead the end-to-end execution of strategic programs, from initiation and planning to implementation and post-launch analysis. This involves defining scope, developing detailed project plans, managing budgets, and tracking progress against key milestones.

- Cross-Functional Collaboration: Work closely with cross-functional teams, including product management, engineering, marketing, 1 sales, operations, and finance, to ensure seamless execution and alignment across all departments. This includes facilitating effective communication and fostering a collaborative environment.

- Problem Solving: Utilize structured problem-solving methodologies (e.G., root cause analysis, fishbone diagrams) to identify and address program challenges effectively.

- Navigating Ambiguity: Comfortably operate in a dynamic environment with evolving priorities and incomplete information, demonstrating adaptability and resourcefulness.

- Risk Management: Proactively identify and assess potential risks and challenges to program success, and develop mitigation strategies to minimize their impact.

- Stakeholder Management: Effectively communicate program status, risks, and updates to key stakeholders, including senior management, ensuring transparency and alignment throughout the program lifecycle. This includes managing expectations and influencing without direct authority.

- Process Improvement: Continuously evaluate and improve program management processes and methodologies to enhance efficiency and effectiveness.

- Market Research & Analysis: Stay abreast of industry trends, competitor activities, and emerging technologies to inform strategic program planning and ensure our products remain competitive.

- Performance Measurement: Define and track key performance indicators (KPIs) to measure program success and identify areas for improvement.

Qualifications:

- Bachelor’s degree in business, Engineering, or a related field;
MBA or Master's degree preferred.

- 5+ years of experience in program management, preferably in the smartphone or mobile device industry.

- Proven track record of successfully managing complex, cross-functional programs from inception to completion.

- Strong understanding of the smartphone market, including product development, marketing, and sales.

- Excellent analytical, problem-solving, and decision-making skills.

- Exceptional communication, interpersonal, and presentation skills.

- Ability to work effectively in a fast-paced, dynamic environment.

- Experience working with global teams.

- Proficiency in project management tools and methodologies (e.G., Agile, Scrum, Waterfall).

- Experience with budget management and financial analysis.

Preferred Qualifications:

- Experience launching new smartphone products or services.

- Knowledge of mobile operating systems (Android, iOS) and related technologies.