Senior Business & Strategy Program Manager

Microsoft Microsoft · Big Tech · Hyderabad, TS, IN · Business Management

This role is a Senior Business & Strategy Program Manager within Microsoft's CoreAI Division, focusing on shaping the future of a large (600+ people) AI organization. It's a Chief-of-Staff-style role driving strategic initiatives, streamlining operations, and elevating employee engagement. Responsibilities include business operations (budget, headcount, hiring, RoB), leadership enablement, organizational health, product strategy alignment, people strategy, and leading special projects. The role requires experience in financial management, business planning, operations, strategy, or project management, with a focus on driving strategic cross-org initiatives and executive communication. While the division works on AI products like GitHub Copilot and Foundry, this specific role is focused on the business and operational aspects rather than direct AI/ML development.

What you'd actually do

  1. Architect and scale workflows across Hyderabad, Bengaluru, and Noida to support organizational growth.
  2. Own budget, headcount, and fiscal planning; ensure financial discipline and transparency.
  3. Partner with GTA and URT to drive hiring, campus programs, apprentices, and Springboard initiatives.
  4. Lead Rhythm of Business (RoB) across India and US stakeholders.
  5. Manage operational cadence including compliance, continuity planning, and headcount administration.

Skills

Required

  • Experience leading strategic cross-org initiatives
  • Executive-level presentation and communication skills
  • Bachelor's Degree in relevant field (e.g., Liberal Arts, Business Administration, Management, Computer Science) AND 4+ years experience in financial management, business planning, operations management, strategy, project management, human resources, or business-related roles OR equivalent experience

Nice to have

  • 8+ years in Program Management, Corporate Strategy, or Business Excellence
  • Financial management experience is a strong plus
  • Prior experience as Business Manager or Chief of Staff highly desirable
  • Exceptional communication skills to drive alignment and decision-making
  • Proven leadership and collaboration across virtual, cross-functional teams
  • Solid program management and problem-solving capabilities
  • High empathy and interpersonal awareness to engage across all levels
  • Financial acumen and operational rigor
  • Strategic mindset with adaptability to evolving business needs
  • Background in product design or strategy is a plus