Strategic Planning Director Enterprise Data Strategy

Job Summary
Cox Automotive is looking for a Strategic Planning Director - Enterprise Data Strategy to play a critical role in shaping and executing enterprise-wide data strategies. This leader will drive high-impact initiatives that align with our corporate objectives and enable smarter, more strategic data utilization across the organization.
This role is ideal for someone with a strong foundation in management consulting, business strategy, AI strategy and data-driven decision-making. As the Director, you will lead the development of enterprise-level data strategies, guide execution across cross-functional teams, and influence key stakeholders to advance Cox Automotive's data maturity. This position demands a strategic thinker with strong execution skills, analytical depth, and the ability to operate effectively in a complex, fast-moving environment.
Key Responsibilities
1. Strategy Development

• Collaborate with the Senior Director of Enterprise Data Strategy to define, develop, and drive a centralized, forward-looking data strategy.
• Evaluate enterprise data opportunities to enhance growth, efficiency, and innovation (e.g., AI enablement, data monetization, analytics maturity).
• Develop business-unit-level data models, assess maturity, identify gaps, and recommend strategic improvements.
• Monitor and analyze industry trends to keep the strategy aligned with market dynamics and emerging technologies.

2. Strategic Execution

• Lead cross-functional initiatives that bring the enterprise data strategy to life, ensuring alignment with Cox Automotive's overarching business objectives.
• Manage project timelines, deliverables, and outcomes to drive value creation.
• Develop successful metrics and reporting frameworks to track progress and communicate impact to executive stakeholders.

3. Tactical Implementation

• Convert strategic visions into actionable plans with clear roadmaps, milestones, and accountability.
• Partner with teams across data governance, analytics, product, engineering, and business units to ensure successful implementation.
• Proactively identify and mitigate execution risks; adjust plans based on changing priorities or feedback.

4. Stakeholder Engagement

• Engage with stakeholders at all levels of the organization, from individual contributors to executives.
• Deliver data-driven recommendations and compelling presentations to influence decisions and gain alignment.
• Build strong relationships to foster cross-functional collaboration and shared ownership of data initiatives.

Required Qualifications

• Bachelor's degree in a related discipline and 10 years' experience in a related field. The right candidate could also have a different combination, such as a master's degree and 8 years' experience; a Ph.D. and 5 years' experience in a related field; or 14 years' experience in a related field in lieu of a degree.
• Demonstrated success working with cross-functional teams in complex environments.
• Deep analytical and problem-solving skills, with the ability to translate complex data into clear business insights.
• Excellent verbal and written communication skills; capable of delivering presentations to executive audiences.
• Ability to challenge the status quo respectfully and thoughtfully, using data and sound judgment.
• Strong critical thinking skills; capable of navigating ambiguity and identifying opportunities in evolving contexts.
• Experience influencing senior leaders and working collaboratively across organizational boundaries.
• Strong project management and execution capabilities; able to lead initiatives from strategy through delivery.

Preferred Qualifications

• Extensive experience in management consulting is highly preferred, particularly in the areas of enterprise data strategy, digital transformation, or business model innovation.
• Background in high-growth, fast-paced, or disruptive industries.
• Passion for storytelling, translating data and insights into clear, persuasive narratives.
• Familiarity with enterprise data governance, data architecture, and data strategy frameworks. Past experience running AI strategy is a plus
• Proficiency in Microsoft Office, especially Excel and PowerPoint.

This is a unique opportunity to be a strategic leader in Cox Automotive's enterprise data journey. If you're passionate about turning data into a competitive advantage and leading initiatives that deliver real business impact, we'd love to hear from you.
USD 159,400.00 - 265,600.00
Compensation:
Compensation includes a base salary of $159,400.00 - $265,600.00. The base salary may vary within the anticipated base pay range based on factors such as the ultimate location of the position and the selected candidate's knowledge, skills, and abilities. Position may be eligible for additional compensation that may include an incentive program.
Benefits:
The Company offers eligible employees the flexibility to take as much vacation with pay as they deem consistent with their duties, the company's needs, and its obligations; seven paid holidays throughout the calendar year; and up to 160 hours of paid wellness annually for their own wellness or that of family members. Employees are also eligible for additional paid time off in the form of bereavement leave, time off to vote, jury duty leave, volunteer time off, military leave, and parental leave.
Applicants must currently be authorized to work in the United States for any employer without current or future sponsorship.