Systems Design Strategist

📍 Job Overview

Job Title: Systems Design Strategist

Company: Children’s Hospital of Philadelphia (CHOP)

Location: Philadelphia, Pennsylvania, United States

Job Type: Full-Time

Category: Operations Strategy & Design / Healthcare Innovation Operations

Date Posted: November 4, 2026

Experience Level: Mid-Level (2-5 years)

Remote Status: On-site

🚀 Role Summary

• Spearhead the application of design thinking and human-centered design principles to transform pediatric healthcare delivery models at a leading children's hospital.

• Coach and guide multi-disciplinary teams through the innovation lifecycle, from initial ideation to successful implementation of novel solutions.

• Manage and facilitate complex innovation projects, ensuring alignment with strategic objectives and operational excellence.

• Collaborate extensively with a diverse range of stakeholders, including healthcare professionals, patients, families, and community partners, to gather critical insights and co-create impactful solutions.

📝 Enhancement Note: This role is positioned within a healthcare innovation context, emphasizing process transformation and the strategic application of design methodologies. While not a traditional "Revenue Operations" or "Sales Operations" role, it shares core operational principles of process improvement, efficiency, stakeholder management, and strategic implementation, particularly in how new systems and workflows are designed and adopted. The focus on "Innovation Catalyst Program" suggests a structured approach to driving change and embedding new operational practices.

📈 Primary Responsibilities

• Apply design thinking and human-centered design methodologies to facilitate innovation projects, guiding teams through problem definition, ideation, prototyping, and testing phases.

• Coach and consult with teams participating in the Innovation Catalyst Program on various aspects of design thinking, including prototype testing, quantitative and qualitative data collection, and implementation planning.

• Develop and implement robust evaluation frameworks to rigorously measure the impact, effectiveness, and ROI of innovative initiatives and new operational models.

• Build strong, credible relationships across the organization to effectively navigate culture, gain buy-in, and support the development of innovation strategies that enhance growth and continuous improvement.

• Orchestrate change management efforts to support innovation work, ensuring smooth adoption and sustained effectiveness of transformed processes and systems.

• Facilitate teams with clearly defined roles and responsibilities, ensuring accountability, effective sponsorship, and robust process ownership.

• Manage and address dysfunctional team dynamics when observed, fostering a productive and collaborative environment for innovation.

• Advance the overall impact of innovation and design thinking across CHOP by building organizational capability through participation and support of the Innovation Catalyst Program.

• Collaborate with external partners and participate in the dissemination of program results and best practices.

📝 Enhancement Note: The responsibilities highlight a strong emphasis on process facilitation, coaching, and stakeholder engagement, which are critical in driving operational transformations within a large healthcare system. The mention of "Innovation Catalyst Program" suggests a formal structure for innovation, requiring strategic alignment and program management skills.

🎓 Skills & Qualifications

Education:

• Bachelor's Degree in a relevant field (Required).

• Master's Degree in Design, Industrial Engineering, Human Factors, Human-Computer Interaction, or a related field of study (Preferred). Experience:

• Minimum of three (3) years of demonstrated experience in applying design thinking and human-centered design principles to achieve impactful and measurable results (Required). Required Skills:

• Deep knowledge and practical application of Design Thinking / Human-Centered Design methodologies (Required proficiency).

• Proven experience with prototyping, quantitative and qualitative data collection, and data analysis techniques (Required proficiency).

• Exceptional interpersonal skills, with excellent verbal and written communication abilities, crucial for stakeholder engagement and cross-functional collaboration (Required proficiency).

• Proficiency in essential collaboration and design tools, including Microsoft Word, Excel, PowerPoint, Visio, and Miro (Required proficiency).

• Demonstrated ability to effectively prioritize work, exhibit strong organizational skills, and proactively seek opportunities for process improvement (Required proficiency).

• A change agent demeanor, characterized by flexible thinking and the ability to adapt quickly to evolving environments and project needs (Required proficiency). Preferred Skills:

• Experience in an innovation program, a dedicated design thinking role, a startup environment, or a startup accelerator.

• Familiarity with computer programming languages.

📝 Enhancement Note: The required skills strongly emphasize the "how" of operations transformation: facilitation, communication, data handling, and tool proficiency. The preference for a Master's degree and specific experience in innovation programs indicates a need for a candidate with a solid theoretical foundation and practical application in driving change.

📊 Process & Systems Portfolio Requirements

Portfolio Essentials:

• Demonstrate successful application of design thinking and human-centered design principles through detailed case studies showcasing problem identification, user research, ideation, prototyping, and iterative testing.

• Provide evidence of managing innovation projects from initial concept through to implementation, highlighting key milestones, challenges overcome, and final outcomes.

• Showcase examples of developing and implementing evaluation frameworks to measure the impact and effectiveness of innovative initiatives, with a focus on quantifiable results.

• Include documentation of stakeholder engagement strategies, illustrating how diverse groups (healthcare professionals, patients, families) were involved in the co-creation process. Process Documentation:

• Illustrate the design and optimization of workflows that enhance efficiency, safety, and patient/provider experience.

• Detail the implementation and adoption strategies for new systems, processes, or digital technologies.

• Present methods used for measuring the performance and impact of implemented changes, including data analysis and reporting.

📝 Enhancement Note: For a role focused on systems design and innovation strategy, a portfolio is crucial. It should not just list projects but tell a story of process transformation, demonstrating the candidate's ability to apply structured methodologies to achieve tangible improvements in healthcare delivery.

💵 Compensation & Benefits

Salary Range: $101,300 - $129,100 Annually

Benefits:

• Comprehensive health insurance coverage, including medical, dental, and vision plans.

• Robust compensation and benefits package, reflecting CHOP's commitment to employee well-being and financial security.

• Access to retirement savings plans with potential employer matching contributions.

• Paid time off, including vacation, sick leave, and holidays, to support work-life balance.

• Opportunities for professional development, training, and continuing education to foster career growth. Working Hours:

• Typically 40 hours per week, with a standard day shift schedule. While the role is primarily on-site, flexibility may be required for critical project phases or stakeholder meetings.

📝 Enhancement Note: The salary range provided is for full-time positions. CHOP is committed to fair pay, and actual offers may exceed the posted range based on skills and experience. The benefits listed are standard for a large healthcare institution and are designed to support employee well-being and professional development, which are key considerations for operations professionals.

🎯 Team & Company Context

🏢 Company Culture

Industry: Healthcare (Pediatric Care)

Company Size: Large (over 20,000 employees)

Founded: 1855, Children’s Hospital of Philadelphia is a world-renowned leader in pediatric care, research, and education.

Team Structure:

• The Systems Design Strategist will likely be part of an innovation hub or a dedicated strategy/transformation team within CHOP. This team is expected to be multi-disciplinary, comprising individuals with diverse backgrounds in healthcare, design, technology, and process improvement.

• The reporting structure will likely be within a senior leadership function focused on strategy, innovation, or operations transformation, with direct reporting to a Director or VP level.

• Cross-functional collaboration is a cornerstone of this role, requiring seamless interaction with clinical teams, IT, administration, patient advocacy groups, and external partners. Methodology:

• Emphasis on data-driven decision-making, utilizing both quantitative and qualitative data to inform strategy and measure impact.

• Application of design thinking and human-centered design as the primary frameworks for problem-solving and solution development.

• Focus on iterative development, rapid prototyping, and continuous feedback loops to refine solutions and ensure alignment with user needs.

• Commitment to fostering a culture of innovation and continuous improvement across the organization.

Company Website: https://www.chop.edu/

📝 Enhancement Note: CHOP's long history and status as a leading pediatric institution provide a stable yet dynamic environment for innovation. The company culture likely values patient-centricity, research excellence, and a collaborative approach to problem-solving. The "Breakthrough Makers" slogan suggests an environment that encourages ambitious individuals to drive significant change.

📈 Career & Growth Analysis

Operations Career Level: This role represents a mid-level to senior position within the innovation and operations strategy domain. It requires a blend of strategic thinking, hands-on facilitation, and project management skills, positioning the individual as a key contributor to organizational transformation initiatives.

Reporting Structure: The Systems Design Strategist will report to a senior leader within the innovation or operations strategy department, likely a Director or VP. This position will collaborate closely with various department heads, clinical leaders, and project teams across the hospital.

Operations Impact: The role has a direct and significant impact on improving the efficiency, effectiveness, and patient experience of healthcare delivery. By transforming operational models and integrating new technologies, the Systems Design Strategist contributes to enhanced patient safety, quality of care, operational cost-effectiveness, and provider satisfaction.

Growth Opportunities:

• Specialization: Deepen expertise in specific areas of healthcare innovation, such as digital health transformation, patient journey mapping, or advanced service design within a pediatric context.

• Leadership: Progress into senior leadership roles within innovation, strategy, or operational excellence departments, managing larger teams and more complex transformation programs.

• Skill Development: Gain exposure to advanced analytics, change management frameworks, and strategic planning methodologies, potentially leading to certifications or advanced degrees.

• Cross-functional Exposure: Expand influence and network by leading initiatives that span multiple departments and functions within the hospital system.

📝 Enhancement Note: This role offers a unique pathway for operations professionals to influence strategic direction in a critical sector like healthcare. The growth potential is tied to the individual's ability to demonstrate impact and lead complex change initiatives.

🌐 Work Environment

Office Type: The role is primarily on-site, reflecting the nature of healthcare operations and the need for direct interaction with clinical staff and facilities. This provides opportunities for in-person collaboration and direct observation of workflows.

Office Location(s): The primary work location is Philadelphia, Pennsylvania, at the Children's Hospital of Philadelphia campus. Specific departmental locations will vary but will be within the main hospital facilities.

Workspace Context:

• The work environment is likely to be dynamic and collaborative, with access to modern office spaces, meeting rooms equipped for design thinking sessions, and potentially dedicated innovation labs.

• Access to essential operations tools and technology, including robust IT infrastructure, collaboration software (Miro, Visio), and standard Microsoft Office Suite, will be provided.

• Frequent opportunities for direct interaction with diverse teams across clinical, administrative, and research departments, fostering a rich learning and collaboration experience. Work Schedule:

• The standard work schedule is 40 hours per week, typically during daytime business hours. Occasional flexibility may be required to accommodate project deadlines, stakeholder availability, or critical implementation phases, especially in a 24/7 healthcare environment.

📝 Enhancement Note: The on-site nature of the role is typical for healthcare operations, emphasizing the importance of physical presence for effective collaboration and understanding of the operational environment.

📄 Application & Portfolio Review Process

Interview Process:

• Initial Screening: A review of your resume and application to assess alignment with the core requirements, particularly experience in design thinking and human-centered design.

• Hiring Manager Interview: A discussion focused on your experience, understanding of design thinking principles, and approach to solving complex problems in a healthcare setting. Be prepared to discuss your facilitation and coaching style.

• Case Study/Presentation: You may be asked to present a portfolio piece or work through a simulated design challenge. This will assess your ability to apply design thinking methodologies, analyze data, and articulate a strategic approach. Focus on demonstrating your process, not just the outcome.

• Team/Stakeholder Interviews: Meetings with potential colleagues and key stakeholders (e.g., clinical leads, innovation team members) to evaluate collaboration skills, cultural fit, and ability to influence across diverse groups.

• Final Interview: A discussion with senior leadership to assess strategic alignment, leadership potential, and overall fit for CHOP's mission.

Portfolio Review Tips:

• Structure Your Case Studies: For each project, clearly outline the problem, your role, the methodology used (design thinking steps), key insights gained, solutions developed, implementation challenges, and measurable outcomes.

• Quantify Impact: Where possible, use metrics to demonstrate the effectiveness of your interventions (e.g., efficiency gains, cost savings, improved patient satisfaction scores, reduced error rates).

• Showcase Collaboration: Highlight instances where you successfully collaborated with diverse stakeholders, managed conflicting perspectives, and achieved consensus.

• Emphasize Process: Detail how you arrived at solutions, not just what the solutions were. This demonstrates your strategic thinking and methodological rigor.

• Tailor to Healthcare: If possible, include examples relevant to healthcare or complex service environments, showcasing your understanding of the unique challenges in these sectors.

Challenge Preparation:

• Familiarize yourself with common design thinking frameworks and exercises.

• Practice articulating your thought process clearly and concisely, especially under time constraints.

• Be prepared to discuss how you would approach a hypothetical challenge related to improving patient experience, optimizing clinical workflows, or integrating new technology in a hospital setting.

• Research CHOP's mission, values, and recent innovation initiatives to demonstrate your understanding and alignment.

📝 Enhancement Note: The interview process will heavily scrutinize your practical application of design thinking and your ability to translate theory into actionable improvements within a complex organizational structure like CHOP. A well-curated portfolio is essential.

🛠 Tools & Technology Stack

Primary Tools:

• Design Thinking & Collaboration: Miro, Visio, and other visual collaboration platforms for ideation, process mapping, and prototyping.

• Productivity Suite: Microsoft Office Suite (Word, Excel, PowerPoint) for documentation, analysis, and presentations.

• Prototyping Tools: Experience with various prototyping tools (e.g., Figma, Sketch, Adobe XD, or even low-fidelity paper prototypes) will be beneficial.

Analytics & Reporting:

• Proficiency in data collection and analysis is required. Experience with data visualization tools and techniques will be advantageous for presenting findings and impact.

• Familiarity with healthcare data standards or reporting requirements may be a plus. CRM & Automation:

• While not a direct CRM role, understanding how systems integrate and impact workflows is key. Experience with process automation tools or workflow management systems could be beneficial in identifying opportunities for efficiency.

• Familiarity with enterprise-level systems common in healthcare (e.g., EHRs like Epic, but not necessarily to administer them) can provide context for system design.

📝 Enhancement Note: The emphasis is on tools that support collaborative design, process mapping, data analysis, and communication. Proficiency in Miro and Visio is explicitly stated, indicating their importance for workflow visualization and ideation.

👥 Team Culture & Values

Operations Values:

• Patient-Centricity: A core value at CHOP, driving all efforts to improve care delivery and patient/family experiences. Operations should directly support this.

• Innovation & Curiosity: Encouraging exploration of new ideas and methodologies to push the boundaries of pediatric care.

• Collaboration & Teamwork: Fostering an environment where diverse perspectives are valued and integrated to achieve common goals.

• Excellence & Quality: A commitment to the highest standards in all aspects of care and operations, with a focus on safety and effectiveness.

• Impact & Measurability: A drive to create tangible, positive change that can be measured and validated.

Collaboration Style:

• Cross-functional Integration: Actively seeking out and engaging with teams across clinical, administrative, research, and IT departments to ensure holistic solutions.

• Co-creation and Partnership: Working with stakeholders, not just for them, to build ownership and ensure solutions are practical and sustainable.

• Open Communication & Feedback: Maintaining transparency and encouraging constructive feedback loops throughout the design and implementation process.

• Data-Informed Dialogue: Using data and insights to guide discussions and decision-making, fostering objective problem-solving.

📝 Enhancement Note: The team culture at CHOP, especially within an innovation role, will likely be highly collaborative, mission-driven, and focused on continuous improvement and patient outcomes.

⚡ Challenges & Growth Opportunities

Challenges:

• Navigating Healthcare Complexity: Understanding and working within the intricate regulatory, clinical, and operational landscape of a large children's hospital.

• Driving Cultural Change: Shifting established practices and mindsets to embrace new innovation methodologies and operational models, particularly in a traditional industry.

• Measuring ROI in Healthcare: Quantifying the impact of design-driven initiatives, which can be complex due to patient outcomes and ethical considerations.

• Balancing Innovation with Scalability: Developing novel solutions that are not only creative but also scalable and sustainable within the hospital's existing infrastructure and budget.

Learning & Development Opportunities:

• Advanced Design Methodologies: Opportunities to deepen expertise in specific areas of design thinking, service design, or user experience research within healthcare.

• Healthcare Innovation Ecosystems: Exposure to cutting-edge research, technology trends, and best practices in pediatric healthcare innovation through conferences, workshops, and internal knowledge sharing.

• Leadership & Change Management: Training and mentorship in leading complex change initiatives, stakeholder management, and strategic program execution.

• Cross-Disciplinary Learning: Gaining insights from diverse experts in medicine, technology, policy, and patient advocacy.

📝 Enhancement Note: This role offers significant challenges but also immense opportunities for professional growth by working at the forefront of healthcare innovation.

💡 Interview Preparation

Strategy Questions:

• "Describe a time you used design thinking to solve a complex operational problem. What was your process, what were the key insights, and what was the outcome?" (Focus on detailing your methodology, stakeholder involvement, and quantifiable results).

• "How would you approach coaching a team of clinicians who are resistant to adopting a new digital workflow?" (Demonstrate your change management, communication, and influence skills).

• "Imagine we want to improve the patient check-in process. Walk us through how you would apply human-centered design to tackle this." (Showcase your structured problem-solving and user-centric approach). Company & Culture Questions:

• "What do you know about CHOP's mission and how does that resonate with your approach to design and innovation?" (Research CHOP's values, strategic priorities, and recent achievements).

• "How do you build credibility and influence stakeholders in a large, established organization like a hospital?" (Discuss your relationship-building strategies and understanding of organizational dynamics).

• "How do you measure the success of innovation initiatives, particularly when direct financial ROI might be difficult to pinpoint?" (Prepare to discuss various impact metrics beyond pure financial returns, such as patient satisfaction, safety, or operational efficiency). Portfolio Presentation Strategy:

• Tell a Story: Structure your portfolio presentations around compelling narratives that highlight the problem, your journey through the design process, and the tangible impact of your work.

• Focus on Process: Emphasize how you applied design thinking and human-centered design, not just the final solution. Show your iterative approach and how you incorporated feedback.

• Showcase Collaboration: Highlight your ability to work effectively with diverse teams and manage stakeholder expectations.

• Quantify Where Possible: Use data and metrics to support your claims about impact, even if they are proxies for direct financial returns.

• Be Prepared for Questions: Anticipate questions about challenges, trade-offs, and alternative approaches you considered.

📝 Enhancement Note: The interview process will heavily assess your practical application of design thinking, your ability to navigate complex stakeholder environments, and your understanding of healthcare's unique challenges.

📌 Application Steps

To apply for this Systems Design Strategist position:

• Submit your application through the CHOP Careers portal, ensuring your resume and any attached documents are tailored to highlight relevant experience.

• Curate Your Portfolio: Select 2-3 of your strongest projects that best demonstrate your application of design thinking and human-centered design, ideally with healthcare or complex service environment relevance. Prepare a concise presentation or digital portfolio showcasing these projects.

• Optimize Your Resume: Ensure your resume clearly articulates your experience with design thinking, human-centered design, facilitation, change management, data analysis, and relevant tools (Miro, Visio). Use action verbs and quantify achievements where possible.

• Prepare for Case Studies: Practice walking through design thinking problem-solving scenarios. Be ready to articulate your thought process, methodologies, and potential solutions for hypothetical healthcare operational challenges.

• Research CHOP: Understand CHOP's mission, values, recent innovations, and strategic goals. Familiarize yourself with their approach to patient care and innovation to demonstrate genuine interest and alignment during interviews.

⚠️ Important Notice: This enhanced job description includes AI-generated insights and operations industry-standard assumptions. All details should be verified directly with the hiring organization before making application decisions.

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