VP, Strategy and Operations

Scheduling isn't simply filling shifts. It's finding the sweet spot that enables businesses to grow and team members to enjoy the perfect work/life balance.

At Planday from Xero, we aim to use Agentic AI to build a future where managers can seamlessly free up invaluable time for their business and teams. We're not just building software: we're on a mission to make shift work more human, to change work/life balance from a luxury to a reality for all shift workers. We're using advanced technology to help humans reach their full potential. At work and in life.

Founded in 2004, Planday is headquartered in Copenhagen, Denmark and helps create perfect schedules for hundreds of thousands of users across the world.

The VP, Strategy and Operations will be a pivotal leader responsible for driving strategic initiatives, optimizing operational processes, and ensuring the effective execution of our company's vision. This individual will possess a strong bias for action, a proven track record of instigating and running Objectives and Key Results (OKR) processes, and exceptional leadership capabilities to inspire and develop high-performing teams.

What you'll do:

Strategic Planning and Execution:

- Collaborate with the executive team to define and articulate the company's long-term strategy and annual strategic priorities.

- Translate strategic objectives into actionable plans and initiatives across various departments.

- Monitor market trends, competitive landscapes, and internal performance to inform strategic adjustments.

- Manage the Executive Leadership Team’s engagements with the board, producing necessary documentation to a high standard

Operational Excellence:

- Identify, analyze, and optimize core business processes to enhance efficiency, scalability, and productivity.

- Implement best practices in operational management to support rapid growth and evolving business needs.

- Oversee cross-functional projects and initiatives, ensuring timely and successful delivery.

OKR Program Leadership:

- Design, implement, and manage a robust OKR framework across the organization.

- Drive adoption and ensure consistent understanding and application of OKRs.

- Facilitate OKR setting, tracking, and reporting cycles, fostering accountability and alignment.

- Provide coaching and support to teams in developing impactful and measurable OKRs.

Leadership and Team Development:

- Build, mentor, and lead a high-performing Project/Programme Mgnt team Foster a culture of continuous improvement, accountability, and collaboration.

- Develop and implement talent development plans for the team, ensuring growth and retention.

Performance Measurement and Analysis:

- Define and track key performance indicators (KPIs) to measure strategic progress and operational effectiveness.

- Conduct in-depth analysis of business performance, identifying areas for improvement and opportunities for growth.

- Present insights and recommendations to the executive team, driving data-informed decision-making.

What you'll bring with you:

• Extensive progressive experience in strategy, operations, or consulting roles within a B2B SaaS environment.
• Demonstrated success in a leadership role, preferably as a VP or Senior Director.
• Proven experience instigating, implementing, and running successful OKR programs within an organization.
• Strong track record of driving operational improvements and achieving measurable results.
• Strong bias for action and a results-oriented mindset.
• Exceptional analytical and problem-solving skills, with the ability to synthesize complex information into clear, actionable insights.
• Excellent communication, presentation, and interpersonal skills, capable of influencing and collaborating with stakeholders at all levels.
• Deep understanding of B2B SaaS business models, metrics, and industry trends.
• Proficiency in project management methodologies and tools.
• Demonstrated strong leadership capabilities, including team building, mentorship, and change management.
• Experience running board meeting preparation processes.

What we offer you:

• Opportunity to make a significant impact in a rapidly growing company.
• Collaborative and innovative work environment (hybrid work and work from anywhere possibilities, Central office location, free breakfast on Tuesdays and lunch on Thursdays in London and catered lunch buffet in Copenhagen)
• Professional development and growth opportunities (including an annual learning and development budget and monthly learning hours)
• Competitive salary and benefits package (including Employee Share Plan, Season Ticket Loan in the UK, etc.)
• Comprehensive insurance package (including up to 8% matched pension contribution, health insurance, etc.)
• Focus on your personal time (25 days holiday + 5 extra paid days off, as well as generous support for new parents)

Application and interview process:

• Stage 1: Initial screening with Talent Acquisition Team (45 mins video call)
• Stage 2: Technical, competency and culture interview with CEO (60 mins in-person or video call)
• Stage 3: Response to brief presentation (provided 2 days in advance requiring 30-60 mins prep). Interview panel: CPO, VP of Finance & VP of People Experience (90 mins in person)
• Stage 4: Final chat with team member

As we work through the process we might add extra stages, but we will let you know as early as possible if that is the case. If you are a strategic thinker with a strong operational background and a passion for driving results, we encourage you to apply. Please submit your resume and a cover letter outlining your relevant experience and why you are the ideal candidate for this role.

Finally, our offices are not just workplaces (although they are pretty nice and well-located, we have to say!). Plandayers are open and welcoming and at Planday, everyone has the freedom and support to show their true self at work.

At Planday, we firmly believe that diversity and inclusion are the cornerstones of innovation and a vibrant workplace culture, and we highly value the strength that diverse backgrounds offer.

As an equal opportunity employer, we strive to create an equitable experience for all our candidates throughout the process. Please let us know if you need reasonable accommodation during the application or interview process.

All applicants will be considered for employment without attention to any personal characteristics.