Strategic Initiatives Lead in Reading

Strategic Initiatives Lead in Reading

Reading Full-Time 59400 - 72600 £ / year (est.) Home office (partial)
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At a Glance

  • Tasks: Drive strategic initiatives and turn bold ideas into reality at OQC.
  • Company: Join a pioneering quantum computing company with a culture of innovation.
  • Benefits: Competitive salary, unique lab access, and a vibrant work culture.
  • Other info: Opportunity for personal growth and to influence executive decisions.
  • Why this job: Be part of a world-class team shaping the future of computation.
  • Qualifications: Experience in strategy consulting and strong programme management skills.

The predicted salary is between 59400 - 72600 £ per year.

Description

At OQC, we aren’t just theorising about the future; we’re building it.

Born from a philosophy of bold innovation, we’ve successfully transitioned quantum computing from an academic dream into a commercial reality.

The most exciting thing is that we’re just getting started and we’ve recently closed our £260 million Series C funding round which is the largest fundraise ever completed by a quantum computing company in Europe.

The Purpose

Turn OQC’s most important strategic priorities into delivered outcomes.

You’ll bring structure, pace and accountability to business-critical initiatives and C-Suite sponsored programmes, helping drive our next phase of growth.

The Role

Reporting to the Chief of Staff, you’ll work closely with the executive team, colleagues across the business and external advisers to translate strategic objectives into coordinated delivery.

Designed for a high-performing strategy consultant looking to move into industry, this role puts you close to executive decision-making with the opportunity to move beyond recommendations, own execution and see your impact across the business.

  • What You'll Be Working On
  • Drive the delivery of OQC’s highest-priority strategic initiatives and C-suite sponsored programmes.
  • Translate strategic objectives into integrated delivery plans, with clear workstreams, milestones and accountabilities.
  • Coordinate cross-functional teams, align stakeholders and manage dependencies across programmes.
  • Track progress against milestones, surface risks early and work with stakeholders to resolve delivery challenges.
  • Keep the executive team informed with clear updates on progress, risks and decisions needed.
  • Work with external advisers where appropriate, aligning their input with programme priorities and delivery plans.

What We're Looking For

  • This role would suit someone with strategy consulting experience at Associate, Senior Associate or Consultant level or equivalent who wants to move beyond recommendations and take ownership of business-critical delivery.
  • We’re interested in the skills and experience you bring, rather than your current job title.
  • Experience at a strategy consultancy, supporting strategic, operational or transformation programmes.
  • Strong analytical and structured problem-solving skills, paired with the execution discipline to turn plans into outcomes.
  • Excellent programme management capability, with experience managing multiple workstreams and coordinating cross-functional initiatives.
  • The ability to influence senior stakeholders and drive progress without direct authority.
  • Outstanding communication and presentation skills, strong organisation and close attention to detail.
  • A proactive, low-ego approach, with intellectual curiosity, personal accountability and the flexibility to take on evolving strategic and operational priorities.
  • The 'Nice-to-Haves'
  • Experience advising technology, deep-tech, software, fintech or other innovation-led businesses.
  • Experience working with private equity-backed businesses.
  • Why Join OQC

You will join a world-class team at the forefront of the next computational era.

We offer a culture of bold innovation, the chance to work with unique lab infrastructure, and the opportunity to see your work redefine the limits of computation.

Learn more about our benefits and positive work culture here

https://oqc. tech/company/careers-at-oqc/

Strategic Initiatives Lead in Reading employer: Oxford Quantum Circuits

At Oxford Quantum Circuits, we pride ourselves on being an exceptional employer that fosters a collaborative and innovative work culture. Our Live Services team is dedicated to employee growth, offering opportunities to develop cutting-edge monitoring solutions in the exciting field of quantum computing. Located in the vibrant city of Oxford, we provide a supportive environment where your contributions directly impact the future of technology, making your work both meaningful and rewarding.

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Contact Details:

Oxford Quantum Circuits Recruitment Team

StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫

We think this is how you could land Strategic Initiatives Lead in Reading

Tip Number 1: Get Involved in Consulting Case Competitions

Look for case competitions hosted by universities and consulting firms. They’re a fab way to showcase your problem-solving skills and meet industry players. Plus, winning one can seriously boost your CV, which we know is key when applying for roles like Strategic Initiatives Lead at Oxford Quantum Circuits!

Tip Number 2: Leverage Alumni Networks

Tap into your university’s alumni network; many consultants love to help out new talent. Reach out to alumni who are working in management consulting, they might have insider knowledge about openings at firms like Oxford Quantum Circuits or be willing to refer you for that Strategic Initiatives Lead position!

Tip Number 3: Attend Industry Events and Conferences

Keep an eye on management consulting events, workshops, or panels. These are prime opportunities to network with top professionals and get your name out there. You might even bump into someone from Oxford Quantum Circuits who’s on the lookout for their next Strategic Initiatives Lead star!

Tip Number 4: Polish Your Consulting Skills Online

Engage with online platforms that offer consulting simulations or courses. Prove your chops by completing relevant projects — this not only beefs up your experience but also gives you concrete examples to chat about during interviews for that full-time Strategic Initiatives Lead role at Oxford Quantum Circuits!

We think you need these skills to ace Strategic Initiatives Lead in Reading

Strategic Planning
Project Management
Cross-Functional Coordination
Stakeholder Management
Analytical Skills
Problem-Solving Skills
Communication Skills

Some tips for your application 🫡

Show Your Problem-Solving Skills:In management consulting, it's all about problem-solving—so make sure your CV highlights your analytical and critical thinking skills. Include examples from your studies or previous roles where you tackled complex issues or came up with innovative solutions. Quantify your achievements whenever possible to demonstrate your impact!

Tailor Your Cover Letter:Your cover letter is your chance to explain why you're a perfect fit for the consulting world. Focus on your motivation for joining the industry and how your skills align with the requirements of the role at Oxford Quantum Circuits. Remember to mention any relevant coursework or projects that showcase your understanding of strategic frameworks or business models!

Highlight Team Experience:Consultants often work in teams, so it's vital to showcase your collaborative skills. Include experiences where you've worked effectively with others, whether in academic group projects or internships. Discuss your role in the team and how you helped achieve common goals, demonstrating you can thrive in a consultancy environment.

Professionalise Your Online Presence:Make sure your LinkedIn and any other professional profiles are up to date, reflecting your career aspirations in management consulting. Connect with industry professionals and follow relevant groups—show you’re serious about entering this field. Applying through our website is a great way to get noticed, so showcase your personality and enthusiasm there!

How to prepare for a job interview at Oxford Quantum Circuits

Master the Case Study Game

In management consulting, case study interviews are all the rage. Make sure to practice structuring your thoughts and analysing data on the fly. Use resources like example case studies to get comfortable with frameworks and solutions. Remember, it’s not just about getting the right answer but showcasing your thought process, so talk us through your reasoning!

Know Your Numbers

Be prepared for some numerical and analytical questions. Brush up on your mental math and be ready to interpret data from charts or graphs. We might throw some business scenarios at you that require a quick turnaround on numerical analysis, so practice these skills to feel confident and swift!

Show Your Leadership Flair

As this is a full-time role, we want to see your potential as a seasoned consultant. Be ready to discuss experiences where you've led a project or a team. Think about times you've influenced decisions or navigated challenges—this is your chance to show how you can thrive in a fast-paced, collaborative environment.

Be a Cultural Fit

We’re not just looking for brains; we want to see if you vibe with our company culture at Oxford Quantum Circuits. Prepare to share how your values align with ours. Have a think about what makes a great team environment for you and how you can contribute to that. A good cultural fit goes a long way in management consulting!