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 they need to feel their best. Here, you will find a culture guided by diversity and inclusion, talented peers, comprehensive benefits and career development opportunities. Come make an impact on the communities we serve as you help us advance health equity on a global scale. Join us to start **Caring. Connecting. Growing together.** As the Associate Director of Network Strategy and Operations, you will play a critical role in shaping and executing the strategic direction of Optum Health’s Value-Based Care network operations. This remote role involves leveraging your expertise in strategy, analytics, and value creation to drive network strategy and performance to deliver exceptional value to our stakeholders. You will collaborate with cross-functional teams to design and implement innovative strategies that enhance network efficiency, quality, and growth. **Primary Responsibilities:** + **Strategic Planning** : Develop and execute comprehensive network strategies aligned with Optum Health’s overall business objectives. Identify opportunities for network optimization and expansion to drive value and improve patient outcomes + **Analytical Leadership** : Utilize advanced analytics to assess network performance, identify trends, and make data-driven decisions. Implement analytical frameworks and tools to monitor key performance indicators (KPIs) and ensure continuous improvement + **Value Creation** : Innovate and implement value-based initiatives that enhance the efficiency, effectiveness, and profitability of the network. Foster a culture of value creation through strategic partnerships and collaborative efforts + **Cross-functional Collaboration** : Work closely with clinical, operational, and business development teams to align network strategies with broader organizational goals. Facilitate effective communication and collaboration across departments + **Market Analysis:** Conduct thorough market analysis to understand competitive dynamics, identify growth opportunities, and anticipate industry trends. Develop actionable insights to inform strategic decision-making + **Stakeholder Engagement:** Build and maintain solid relationships with key stakeholders, including providers, payers, and internal teams. Communicate network strategies and performance updates to senior leadership and other relevant parties + **Project Management** : Oversee the execution of strategic initiatives and projects. Ensure timely delivery, quality outcomes, and alignment with organizational objectives + **Innovation and Improvement** : Drive continuous improvement initiatives within the network operations. Identify and implement best practices, process enhancements, and innovative solutions to achieve operational excellence You’ll be rewarded and recognized for your performance in an environment that will challenge you and give you clear direction on what it takes to succeed in your role as well as provide development for other roles you may be interested in. **Required Qualifications:** + 4+ years of professional experience + 2+ years of experience in a consulting firm, investment bank or healthcare client solutions company + 2+ years doing advanced Excel modeling and Powerpoint deck development + 1+ years of healthcare experience (either directly for a healthcare company or via consulting / banking experience / client solutions company) + **Strategic Thinking** :Demonstrated ability to develop and execute complex strategies that drive organizational goals. solid visionary and analytical skills to anticipate and respond to market changes + **Analytical Skills:** Demonstrated expertise in leveraging data analytics to drive decision-making and improve network performance. Proficiency in using analytical tools and methodologies + **Value-focused Mindset:** Proven track record of creating value through innovative strategies and initiatives. Ability to identify and implement cost-saving and revenue-generating opportunities + **Leadership and Influence:** Demonstrated exceptional leadership skills with the ability to influence and inspire cross-functional teams. solid interpersonal skills to build and maintain relationships with diverse stakeholders + **Communication:** Demonstrated excellent communication skills, both verbal and written, with the ability to convey complex information clearly and persuasively to various audiences + **Collaboration** : Demonstrated solid team player with a collaborative approach to working with others. Ability to foster a positive and productive team environment + **Problem-solving:** Demonstrated creative and strategic problem-solving abilities to navigate challenges and drive successful outcomes + **Adaptability** : Demonstrated ability to thrive in a fast-paced and dynamic environment. Comfortable with ambiguity and capable of adjusting to changing priorities Optum Health is an Equal Opportunity Employer. We celebrate diversity and are committed to creating an inclusive environment for all employees. If you are a strategic thinker with a passion for driving network excellence, we invite you to apply and join our dynamic team. **California Residents Only:** The salary range for this role is $104,700 to $190,400 annually. Pay is based on several factors including but not limited to local labor markets, education, work experience, certifications, etc. UnitedHealth Group complies with all minimum wage laws as applicable. In addition to your salary, UnitedHealth Group offers benefits such as, a comprehensive benefits package, incentive and recognition programs, equity stock purchase and 401k contribution (all benefits are subject to eligibility requirements). No matter where or when you begin a career with UnitedHealth Group, you’ll find a far-reaching choice of benefits and incentives. _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._ _Diversity creates a healthier atmosphere: UnitedHealth Group is an Equal Employment Opportunity/Affirmative Action employer and all qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, age, national origin, protected veteran status, disability status, sexual orientation, gender identity or expression, marital status, genetic information, or any other characteristic protected by law._ _UnitedHealth Group is a drug-free workplace. Candidates are required to pass a drug test before beginning employment._