Principal Data Analyst

Optum is a global organization that delivers care aided by technology to help millions of people live healthier lives The work you do with our team will directly improve health outcomes by connecting people with the care pharmacy benefits data and resources they need to feel their best Here you will find a culture guided by inclusion talented peers comprehensive benefits and career development opportunities Come make an impact on the communities we serve as you help us advance health optimization on a global scale Join us to start Caring Connecting Growing together As a Principal Data Analyst you will lead strategic data initiatives supporting key partner operations within UHC Operations Your primary responsibilities include designing maintaining and enhancing analytical tools that monitor performance metrics uncover operational trends and improve data accuracy and reporting efficiency This role demands close collaboration with both internal and external stakeholders fostering solid partnerships to ensure seamless data access and transparent communication You will play a critical role in identifying process inefficiencies enabling insight-driven decision-making and promoting alignment across UHC Operations and Experience Primary Responsibilities Lead execute strategic initiatives to streamline and optimize operational processes across UHC Operations Develop data-driven insights aligned with business priorities to support stakeholder alignment and strategic planning Translate complex data and strategic concepts into actionable insights for diverse audiences including senior leadership Communicate effectively across business units and participate in cross-functional teams to ensure alignment and transparency Analyze and structure data to support long-term planning and operational improvements Mentor and guide cross-functional teams fostering a culture of innovation and data-driven decision-making Review and refine team outputs providing strategic direction and developmental feedback to enhance quality and impact Collaborate with internal and external stakeholders to ensure seamless data access and clear communication Support alignment across UHC Operations and Experience by identifying inefficiencies and enabling insight-driven decisions Operational Performance Project Execution Design and manage business plans that align with long-term strategic goals and performance benchmarks Support service integration efforts ensuring consistency with enterprise-wide standards and operational frameworks Collaborate across UHC GSRM and UHC Operations to identify prioritize and implement initiatives that enhance efficiency and effectiveness Analyze cost drivers capital investments and workforce trends to inform high-impact strategic decisions Conduct in-depth business analysis to diagnose operational challenges and deliver data-backed solutions Introduce innovative methodologies tools and insights to advance team objectives and drive continuous improvement Define technical requirements for reporting tools and systems ensuring alignment with evolving business needs and stakeholder expectations Comply with the terms and conditions of the employment contract company policies and procedures and any and all directives such as but not limited to transfer and or re-assignment to different work locations change in teams and or work shifts policies in regard to flexibility of work benefits and or work environment alternative work arrangements and other decisions that may arise due to the changing business environment The Company may adopt vary or rescind these policies and directives in its absolute discretion and without any limitation implied or otherwise on its ability to do so Common Language of Leadership Execute with Excellence - Understand assigned goals and tasks thoroughly consistently delivering results that meet or exceed expectations Collaborate Effectively - Build and sustain productive relationships with colleagues through open communication and teamwork Optimize Resources - Complete tasks efficiently and cost-effectively by leveraging available resources and managing time wisely Communicate Transparently - Proactively seek share and receive information with all stakeholders in a timely and unfiltered manner Demonstrate Initiative - Exhibit a proactive mindset by tackling complex problems anticipating challenges and embracing new opportunities Contribute Thoughtfully - Share valuable insights and ideas confidently even when they may challenge the status quo or present short-term risks Support Change - Embrace and actively contribute to organizational change initiatives with a positive and cooperative attitude Enhance Expertise - Continuously develop technical and functional skills through hands-on experience and ongoing learning Pursue Growth - Seek out additional responsibilities and learning opportunities using feedback constructively to improve future performance Required Qualifications Undergraduate degree in applicable area of expertise or equivalent experience 15 years of overall experience in the BPO industry with a solid foundation in operations analytics and leadership 10 years of experience in strategic operations business planning or healthcare operations leadership preferably within the healthcare industry 5 years of project program management experience in large-scale enterprise environments demonstrating the ability to lead and deliver complex initiatives Proven success in managing cross-functional projects driving stakeholder alignment and achieving measurable business outcomes Exceptional analytical and conceptual thinking skills with the ability to synthesize complex data into strategic insights Demonstrated problem-solving abilities and a proactive approach to developing innovative solutions Excellent communication and leadership capabilities with the ability to influence and engage stakeholders across all levels of the organization Proficiency in database tools such as MS Access and SQL for effective data management and analysis Advanced expertise in data visualization tools including Tableau and Power BI with a focus on storytelling and insight delivery Solid presentation skills using PowerPoint to convey analytical findings and strategic recommendations clearly and effectively At UnitedHealth Group our mission is to help people live healthier lives and make the health system work better for everyone We believe everyone - of every race gender sexuality age location and income - deserves the opportunity to live their healthiest life Today however there are still far too many barriers to good health which are disproportionately experienced by people of color historically marginalized groups and those with lower incomes We are committed to mitigating our impact on the environment and enabling and delivering equitable care that addresses health disparities and improves health outcomes - an enterprise priority reflected in our mission