Senior Manager, Strategic Projects

AutoNation is seeking a highly motivated Senior Manager, Strategic Projects to drive enterprise-wide strategic initiatives and partnerships. This is a high-visibility role reporting directly to the VP of Strategy & Growth, working hand-in-hand with senior leadership to incubate, launch, and scale initiatives that define the future of auto retail.
The ideal candidate is an experienced program manager with a proven ability to deliver complex cross-functional projects end-to-end, from scoping and implementation through scaling, performance optimization, and steady-state transition.
This is an opportunity to operate at the top management agenda, shaping innovations across technology, operations, partnerships, and customer experience. Prior AutoNation strategic projects have included launching a nationwide tech-enabled insurance offering, enabling customer pay rentals, optimizing performance on a 10,000-vehicle fleet, and introducing new digital e-commerce solutions.

Responsibilities

• Program Leadership: Lead strategic projects from concept to launch, ensuring clear scope, milestones, and accountability.
• Cross-Functional Execution: Partner with Technology, Legal, Marketing, Operations, Finance, and field teams to align priorities, resolve bottlenecks, and ensure seamless execution.
• Partnership Implementation: Manage the rollout of key external partnerships, ensuring business terms are operationalized across AutoNation’s footprint.
• Performance & P&L Ownership: Monitor initiative performance, identify improvement levers, and own business results. Provide reporting, insights, and recommendations to leadership.
• Operational Transition: Drive projects through incubation and scale phases; transition to business owners once in steady state while ensuring continuity of results.
• Change Agent: Push the organization forward, breaking down silos, resolving roadblocks, and championing innovation.
• Strategic Impact: Support the VP of Strategy & Growth in shaping and executing initiatives aligned to AutoNation’s strategic priorities.

Qualifications

• Experience: 5–10 years in program management, strategy, or operations, ideally with exposure to automotive retail, mobility, or technology-enabled services.
• Track Record: Demonstrated success in leading large cross-functional programs and implementing partnerships from concept to scale.
• Business Acumen: Strong grasp of P&L ownership, performance tracking, and levers of profitability.
• Cross-Functional Savvy: Comfortable working across technology, legal, marketing, and operations; able to translate strategic priorities into execution.
• Leadership & Influence: Skilled at managing stakeholders, influencing senior leaders, and driving accountability without direct authority.
• Structured & Organized: Highly organized with strong project management discipline; able to manage multiple initiatives simultaneously.
• Ownership Mindset: Entrepreneurial, results-oriented, and comfortable taking responsibility for outcomes.

Skills & Competencies

• Exceptional program management and problem-solving skills.
• Strong written, verbal, and executive communication abilities.
• Financial acumen with ability to link initiatives to P&L impact.
• Ability to work under pressure, manage ambiguity, and deliver results.
• Familiarity with auto retail operations a plus; consulting or corporate strategy background desirable.

Why Join AutoNation?

• Work directly with the VP of Strategy & Growth and senior leadership on initiatives that shape the future of automotive retail.
• Gain exposure to high-impact projects across partnerships, technology, operations, and customer experience.
• Be part of an entrepreneurial, fast-paced environment within a Fortune 200 company.
• Drive measurable business impact while incubating and scaling new innovations.

Exciting Benefits and Perks Await You:

• Competitive compensation and 401k matching

• Enjoy a healthy work-life balance with insurance plans (health, dental, vision) and maternity benefits.

• Associate purchase and discount programs for new and pre-owned vehicles, services, parts, collision, accessories, and AutoGear

• Access amazing deals and discounts through YouDecide, a website with offers from top providers and retailers

• Join our DRVPNK mission to raise and donate millions of dollars to cancer research and treatment, partnering with cancer charities nationwide

AutoNation is one of the largest automotive retailers in the United States, offering innovative products, exceptional services, and comprehensive solutions, empowering our customers to make the best decisions for their needs. With a network of dealerships nationwide strengthened by a recognized brand, we offer a wide variety of new and used vehicles, customer financing, parts, and provide expert maintenance and repair services. Through DRV PNK, we have raised over $40 million for cancer-related causes, demonstrating our commitment to making a positive difference in the lives of our Associates, Customers, and the communities we serve.
 

AutoNation is committed to creating a diverse, equitable, and inclusive environment in our workplace and the services we provide. We welcome candidates from all backgrounds who are passionate about making a positive impact. Even if you do not meet every requirement, we encourage you to apply. Join our team and help us foster a culture of belonging while contributing to our revolutionary work in the automotive industry. We value innovation, teamwork, and a commitment to making a positive impact in the world.