WM Operations Strategy & Transformation - Process Design Consultant

📍 Job Overview

Job Title: WM Operations Strategy & Transformation - Process Design Consultant

Company: Bank of America

Location: Pennington, Alabama, United States (with potential for Jacksonville, Florida and Charlotte, North Carolina)

Job Type: Full time

Category: Operations Strategy & Transformation / Process Design

Date Posted: 2026-09-15

Experience Level: Mid-Level (3+ years)

Remote Status: On-site

🚀 Role Summary

• Lead complex, cross-functional initiatives focused on strategic transformation within Wealth Management Operations (WMO) and adjacent Merrill Lines of Business.

• Drive operational excellence by applying deep expertise in process analysis, organizational design, and technology enablement to identify and implement innovative solutions.

• Develop and present compelling business cases to senior leadership, influencing strategic direction and compliance with enterprise process management policies.

• Mentor and coach junior process designers, strengthening the overall Operational Excellence program within the organization.

• Utilize advanced data analytics and critical thinking to solve complex business problems, translating them into structured, design-oriented solutions with quantifiable business case benefits.

📝 Enhancement Note: This role sits within the Wealth Management Operations (WMO) Strategy and Transformation team, indicating a focus on driving significant operational improvements and strategic shifts within a highly regulated financial services environment. The "Process Design Consultant II" title and mention of leading complex, cross-functional initiatives with a high degree of autonomy suggest a mid-to-senior level individual contributor role with significant impact potential.

📈 Primary Responsibilities

• Lead strategic initiatives that span multiple Lines of Business, influencing enterprise-wide transformation efforts.

• Evaluate current state processes, organizational structures, and technologies to identify opportunities for improvement, risk mitigation, and efficiency gains.

• Proactively identify and raise awareness of risks and obstacles discovered during analysis, proposing effective mitigation strategies.

• Employ advanced data analytics and visualization tools to develop robust target state solutions that align with business objectives.

• Build and present persuasive business cases to senior leadership, clearly articulating benefits, costs, and strategic alignment.

• Provide mentorship and coaching to junior process designers, fostering skill development and enhancing the team's capabilities in Operational Excellence.

• Engage with executive stakeholders to socialize analysis findings, provide project status updates, and present strategic recommendations.

• Implement moderately complex solutions to address issues and risks, optimize efficiency, reduce variability, and improve controls, quality, and sustainability.

• Work directly with Line of Business partners to gather necessary information for identifying and implementing solutions that resolve critical business challenges and opportunities.

• Establish and implement a model for continuous process improvement by applying process engineering best practices and delivering reusable technology solutions.

• Leverage analytics and critical thinking to solve complex business problems and translate issues into structured design-oriented solutions with clearly defined business case benefits.

• Lead the development of enterprise change management deliverables for material projects, including project charters, SIPOC (Suppliers, Inputs, Outputs, Customers), RACI (Responsible, Accountable, Consulted, and Informed) process maps, risk assessments, control plans, and related artifacts.

📝 Enhancement Note: The responsibilities clearly indicate a blend of strategic planning, hands-on process analysis, and change management. The emphasis on "enterprise-wide transformation," "influencing senior stakeholders," and "mentoring junior consultants" points to a role that requires not only technical process skills but also strong leadership and communication capabilities. The inclusion of specific deliverables like SIPOC and RACI maps highlights the need for structured, standardized process documentation.

🎓 Skills & Qualifications

Education: While not explicitly stated, a Bachelor's degree in Business Administration, Finance, Operations Management, Industrial Engineering, or a related field is typically expected for this level of role in financial services. A Master's degree or relevant certifications would be advantageous.

Experience:

• 3+ years of experience in process design, encompassing process, organization, and technology analysis.

• 3+ years of experience in strategic planning, business model innovation, and business case development. Required Skills:

• Change Management: Proven ability to manage and drive organizational change initiatives.

• Continuous Improvement: Deep understanding and application of methodologies like Lean and Six Sigma principles.

• Process Design: Expertise in analyzing, designing, and documenting business processes.

• Process Simplification: Ability to identify and eliminate inefficiencies and complexities within workflows.

• Business Process Analysis: Strong skills in dissecting current processes to understand their components and performance.

• Critical Thinking: Advanced ability to analyze complex situations, identify root causes, and develop effective solutions.

• Process Performance Measurement: Experience in defining KPIs, tracking metrics, and analyzing process effectiveness.

• Program Management: Ability to manage multiple initiatives, resources, and timelines effectively.

• Strategic Thinking: Capacity to align operational improvements with broader business strategies and objectives.

• Conflict Management: Skill in navigating and resolving disagreements among stakeholders.

• Decision Making: Ability to make sound, data-driven decisions in complex environments.

• Scenario Planning and Analysis: Proficiency in evaluating potential outcomes and developing contingency plans.

• Executive Presence: Demonstrated ability to interact effectively and confidently with senior leadership.

• Stakeholder Management: Skill in building relationships, managing expectations, and influencing diverse groups of stakeholders.

• Data Analytics: Strong analytical capabilities, with the ability to interpret data and draw actionable insights.

• Process Mapping: Advanced proficiency in process mapping and modeling using tools such as Visio.

• Storytelling and Presentation: Expert ability in communicating complex information clearly and persuasively, both in written and verbal formats.

• Adaptability: An avid learner comfortable navigating new and ambiguous situations.

• Complexity Management: Skilled at managing high degrees of complexity in projects and analyses.

Preferred Skills:

• Six Sigma Black/Green Belt Certification: Demonstrates formal training and expertise in process improvement methodologies.

• Advanced Excel: Proficiency in advanced Excel functions for data analysis and modeling.

• Data Visualization Skills: Experience using tools to create impactful visual representations of data and process flows.

• Wealth Management & Financial Services Operations Experience: Direct experience within the financial services industry, particularly in Wealth Management, is highly desirable.

📝 Enhancement Note: The required skills list is extensive and emphasizes a blend of analytical, strategic, and interpersonal competencies. The "3+ years" for both process design and strategic planning/business case development suggests this is a role for someone who has moved beyond entry-level process improvement and can independently lead significant projects. The specific mention of Visio for process mapping and the preference for Six Sigma certifications highlight key technical and methodological expectations.

📊 Process & Systems Portfolio Requirements

Portfolio Essentials:

• Process Improvement Case Studies: Showcase at least 2-3 detailed case studies demonstrating your ability to analyze a complex process, identify inefficiencies, propose solutions, and quantify the impact (e.g., cost savings, efficiency gains, risk reduction).

• Business Case Development Examples: Include examples of business cases you have developed, highlighting your ability to define problems, scope solutions, forecast benefits, and present findings to stakeholders.

• Process Mapping Samples: Provide samples of process maps (e.g., SIPOC, RACI, detailed workflow diagrams) created using tools like Visio, demonstrating clarity, accuracy, and adherence to industry standards.

• Metrics and KPI Development: Showcase instances where you defined, tracked, and reported on key performance indicators (KPIs) to measure process effectiveness and drive improvement.

• Transformation Initiative Documentation: If possible, include documentation or summaries of larger transformation initiatives you have led or significantly contributed to, emphasizing your role and the outcomes achieved.

Process Documentation:

• Workflow Design and Optimization: Demonstrates understanding of how to map "as-is" processes, identify bottlenecks, and design optimized "to-be" workflows.

• Implementation and Automation Methods: Evidence of experience in not just designing, but also implementing and potentially automating new processes, ensuring smooth transitions and user adoption.

• Measurement and Performance Analysis: Ability to establish measurement frameworks for new processes, track performance against baseline metrics, and conduct ongoing analysis for continuous improvement.

📝 Enhancement Note: For a Process Design Consultant role, a strong portfolio is crucial. It should not just list skills but demonstrate them through tangible examples of past work. The emphasis should be on quantifiable results and the strategic thinking behind the process improvements, not just the technical execution. Given the financial services context, showcasing an understanding of risk and control within process design will be highly valued.

💵 Compensation & Benefits

Salary Range: $112,500 - $156,500 annualized salary. This range is for the Pennington, NJ location and is based on the provided job description. Salary offers will be determined based on experience, education, and skill set. The specified range reflects a mid-level to senior individual contributor role in a high-cost-of-living area for a major financial institution.

Benefits:

• Discretionary Incentive Eligible: This role is eligible to participate in the annual discretionary incentive plan, with awards based on individual, team, and company performance.

• Comprehensive Benefits Package: Bank of America provides industry-leading benefits that are currently benefits-eligible.

• Paid Time Off: Access to paid time off for rest and rejuvenation.

• Resources and Support: Employees have access to various resources and support systems designed to help them make a genuine impact and contribute to sustainable growth.

• Health and Wellness Support: Implied through "resources and support" and the company's general emphasis on employee wellness.

Working Hours: 40 hours per week, typically during the 1st shift (United States of America).

📝 Enhancement Note: The salary range provided is specific to the Pennington, NJ location. While other locations (Jacksonville, Charlotte) are listed, the salary bands may differ based on local market rates and cost of living. The "Discretionary Incentive Eligible" suggests a performance-driven component to compensation beyond the base salary. The benefits are described broadly but highlight access to PTO and general support resources.

🎯 Team & Company Context

🏢 Company Culture

Industry: Financial Services (Banking & Investment Management). Bank of America is a global leader in financial services, offering a wide range of banking, investing, asset management, and other financial and risk management products and services.

Company Size: Large enterprise (Bank of America is one of the world's largest banks by assets). This implies a structured environment with established processes, extensive resources, and numerous opportunities for career development and cross-functional collaboration.

Founded: 1998 (through the merger of NationsBank and BankAmerica), with roots tracing back to 1874. This long history signifies stability, deep industry knowledge, and a well-established operational framework.

Team Structure:

• Operations Strategy & Transformation Team (WMO): This specific team is responsible for leading the evolution and full integration of the Operational Excellence program within Wealth Management Operations.

• Cross-functional Collaboration: The role requires working closely with Line of Business partners, integrated business and technology teams, and executive stakeholders across WMO and other Merrill Lines of Business.

• Reporting Structure: As a Process Design Consultant II, this role likely reports to a Director or Senior Manager within the Strategy and Transformation team, with significant autonomy in day-to-day work. It also involves mentoring junior consultants.

Methodology:

• Operational Excellence Program: The team drives strategic work efforts using process analysis techniques and supports Process Owners to ensure compliance with the Enterprise Process Management Policy.

• Data-Driven Decision Making: Emphasis on leveraging advanced data analytics and critical thinking to uncover opportunities and develop solutions.

• Process Engineering Best Practices: Application of established methodologies to design and implement efficient, reusable technology solutions and continuous improvement models.

Company Website: https://www.bankofamerica.com/

📝 Enhancement Note: Bank of America's culture emphasizes "Responsible Growth," client focus, and a "Great Place to Work" environment. For operations roles, this translates to a focus on efficiency, risk management, compliance, and a structured approach to problem-solving, balanced with an emphasis on collaboration and employee development. The scale of the organization means that process improvements can have a substantial impact.

📈 Career & Growth Analysis

Operations Career Level: This role is positioned as a Process Design Consultant II, indicating a mid-to-senior level individual contributor role. It requires significant experience in process design and strategic planning, with the ability to lead complex initiatives autonomously and mentor others. It's a step beyond a junior analyst role and prepares individuals for more senior consulting, management, or specialized operational leadership positions.

Reporting Structure: The Process Design Consultant II likely reports to a Manager or Director within the Wealth Management Operations Strategy & Transformation team. They will collaborate extensively with business leaders, subject matter experts, technology partners, and other operations professionals across various lines of business. The role also involves a mentorship component, overseeing the work of junior consultants.

Operations Impact: This role has a direct and significant impact on the efficiency, quality, risk mitigation, and overall strategic direction of Wealth Management Operations. By leading transformation initiatives and implementing process improvements, the consultant contributes to cost efficiencies, enhanced client experiences, and stronger regulatory compliance, all of which are critical to the success of a major financial institution.

Growth Opportunities:

• Advancement to Senior Consultant/Lead: Progression to a Senior Process Design Consultant or a lead role within the Strategy & Transformation team, managing larger or more complex programs.

• Specialization: Opportunity to deepen expertise in specific areas of Wealth Management Operations, financial services processes, or advanced analytics and technology enablement.

• Leadership Development: Potential to move into management roles, leading teams of process designers or operations specialists.

• Cross-Functional Mobility: Experience gained in this role can open doors to other strategic, operational, or project management roles within Bank of America's broader operations or business units.

• Industry Certifications: Support for obtaining or maintaining relevant certifications like Six Sigma Black Belt, PMP, or CBAP.

📝 Enhancement Note: The role offers a clear path for growth within a large, established organization. The combination of strategic influence, hands-on problem-solving, and mentorship prepares individuals for leadership positions. The financial services sector also provides opportunities for specialization in areas like risk, compliance, and regulatory operations.

🌐 Work Environment

Office Type: The company culture emphasizes an "in-office culture that supports collaboration, engagement, and career development." This suggests a traditional office environment where in-person interaction is valued. While there's an "appropriate level of flexibility based on role-specific responsibilities and business needs," the role is designated as "On-site."

Office Location(s): The primary location listed is Pennington, NJ (1400 American Blvd - Hopewell Bldg 4 (NJ2140)). However, the listing also mentions potential for Jacksonville, Florida, and Charlotte, North Carolina. This indicates that while the role is primarily based in Pennington, there might be flexibility or a need to engage with teams or projects in these other major Bank of America hubs.

Workspace Context:

• Collaborative Environment: The emphasis on in-office work implies a workspace designed for collaboration, with meeting rooms, shared spaces, and opportunities for spontaneous interaction.

• Operations Tools and Technology: Access to standard corporate IT infrastructure, including necessary software for process mapping (Visio), data analysis (Excel, visualization tools), and communication platforms.

• Team Interaction: Opportunities to engage directly with colleagues, business leaders, and subject matter experts, fostering knowledge sharing and efficient problem-solving.

Work Schedule: A standard 40-hour work week, typically during the 1st shift (United States of America). While the role is on-site, the company acknowledges "an appropriate level of flexibility based on role-specific responsibilities and business needs," which might allow for some minor adjustments to daily start/end times if business demands permit, though the primary expectation is in-office presence.

📝 Enhancement Note: The "On-site" designation is key. While Bank of America is adapting to hybrid models, this specific role is framed around in-person collaboration. Candidates should expect to work from the Pennington office, with potential for travel or engagement with teams in Jacksonville and Charlotte. The "appropriate level of flexibility" likely refers to minor adjustments rather than a remote or hybrid arrangement.

📄 Application & Portfolio Review Process

Interview Process:

• Initial Screening: HR or recruiter call to assess basic qualifications, interest, and cultural fit.

• Hiring Manager Interview: In-depth discussion with the hiring manager focusing on experience, skills, and alignment with the role's responsibilities. Expect questions about past projects, problem-solving approaches, and strategic thinking.

• Panel Interview/Case Study: Likely involves interviews with team members and potentially senior stakeholders. A case study or process analysis exercise is highly probable, requiring candidates to demonstrate their analytical, problem-solving, and presentation skills. This might involve analyzing a hypothetical business problem and proposing a process solution.

• Final Interview: May involve a senior leader or executive to assess overall fit and strategic alignment.

Portfolio Review Tips:

• Curate Select Examples: Choose 3-4 of your strongest process improvement case studies that best align with the responsibilities outlined.

Focus on impact and results.

• Structure Your Case Studies: For each case study, clearly outline:

  • The Problem: What was the business challenge or opportunity?
  • Your Role: What specific actions did you take?
  • The Process: What analysis and design methods did you use?
  • The Solution: What was the proposed or implemented solution?
  • The Results: Quantify the impact (e.g., % efficiency gain, $ cost savings, risk reduction %).

• Highlight Strategic Alignment: Emphasize how your process improvements contributed to broader business objectives or strategic goals.

• Showcase Analytical Rigor: Demonstrate your use of data and critical thinking in identifying issues and developing solutions.

• Prepare for Questions: Be ready to discuss your portfolio items in detail, explaining your thought process, challenges encountered, and lessons learned.

Challenge Preparation:

• Understand the WMO Context: Research Wealth Management Operations and Bank of America's business. Be prepared to discuss challenges and opportunities within this specific domain.

• Practice Process Mapping: Brush up on your Visio skills and be ready to potentially create or critique a process map under time pressure.

• Develop a Framework for Problem Solving: Have a structured approach for tackling process-related challenges, involving data gathering, analysis, solution ideation, and impact assessment.

• Prepare for Behavioral Questions: Anticipate questions about teamwork, conflict resolution, influencing stakeholders, and managing ambiguity, using the STAR method (Situation, Task, Action, Result).

📝 Enhancement Note: The interview process for such a role at a large financial institution will be rigorous. A strong portfolio is non-negotiable, and candidates must be prepared to articulate their contributions and thought processes clearly. The case study component is a critical opportunity to showcase practical skills.

🛠 Tools & Technology Stack

Primary Tools: