Description

Strategic planning managers are the ones who oversee the overall strategic planning process. They work with senior management to review their performance over time and decide on the most effective strategy for the future - for instance, in the handling of acquisitions, mergers as well as the direction of the company's R&D. Strategic planning managers might have a lot of direct employees and their managers is expected to provide direction and discipline to these employees. They should be able to perform forecasting, assisting executives determine the most effective opportunities to grow the company. They are responsible for growth initiatives and can create plans to acquire businesses that could provide the opportunity to grow. The position is usually full-time and is performed in an office environment however, travel might be needed depending on the requirements of the company.

Manager positions in strategic planning require significant prior experience in the field, typically at least 15 years of experience in a similar job. A minimum bachelor's degree in a business or similar field is usually required in addition, but they are typically required to hold an MBA or master's degree in administration of business (MBA). A strong interpersonal skill is required for strategic planning, since managers regularly interact with suppliers, customers executives of companies, engineers and business professionals, legal professionals, and potential partners businesses. Experience in sales and marketing could be beneficial as well.

Roles & Responsibilities

As a Strategic Planning Manager with 3-6 years of experience in the United Kingdom, your main responsibilities include:

  • Collaborate with senior executives to develop and execute the organization's strategic plans, ensuring alignment with the company's long-term goals and objectives.
  • Conduct thorough market research and analysis to identify trends, opportunities, and potential risks that may impact the organization's strategic planning.
  • Facilitate strategic planning workshops and meetings, guiding cross-functional teams in the development of strategic initiatives and setting actionable goals.
  • Monitor the implementation of strategic plans, track progress, and provide regular updates to stakeholders, making adjustments as needed to adapt to changing business conditions.

Qualifications & Work Experience

For a Strategic Planning Manager job role, the following qualifications are required:

  • Profound strategic thinking and problem-solving abilities to assess complex business challenges and develop long-term strategic plans.
  • Strong data analysis skills to gather and interpret market research data, competitor analysis, and financial information to inform strategic decisions.
  • Excellent communication and presentation skills to articulate and communicate strategic plans and recommendations to senior management and stakeholders.
  • Demonstrated leadership capabilities to effectively lead cross-functional teams in the execution of strategic initiatives and drive organizational change.

Essential Skills For Strategic Planning Manager

1

Strategic Mindset

2

Project Planning

3

Strategic Management

4

Strategic Planning

Career Prospects

The role of Strategic Planning Manager is crucial for driving organizational growth and success. With 3-6 years of experience in the United Kingdom, professionals in this field can explore various alternative roles. Here are following options to consider:

  • Business Development Manager: A role focused on identifying new market opportunities, developing strategic partnerships, and driving revenue growth.
  • Project Manager: A position involving planning, executing, and overseeing projects to ensure timely delivery and successful implementation.
  • Operations Manager: A role responsible for managing day-to-day operations, optimizing processes, and improving efficiency across departments.
  • Market Research Analyst: A position focused on gathering and analyzing market data, conducting market research, and providing insights to support strategic decision-making.

How to Learn

The role of a Strategic Planning Manager in the United Kingdom is expected to witness substantial growth in the market. Over the past ten years, this job role has exhibited a consistent upward trend, indicating sustained demand and relevance. According to recent data, the employment opportunities for Strategic Planning Managers are projected to increase significantly in the future. As per Google's latest insights, this growth is driven by the increasing emphasis on strategic decision-making in organizations and the need for effective long-term planning. This trend indicates a promising career path for individuals in this role, with ample opportunities to contribute to organizational success.