What does a Strategic Planner do?
A Strategic Planner helps guide a business toward business goals. They take an analytical approach to the process, looking at the current state of the businesses, as well as external factors, such as industry trends. This information, along with the vision and objectives of the company, helps the Strategic Planner make recommendations for changes to the company. The Strategic Planner can share their recommendations for proposals or projects the executive team is considering. They also come up with metrics and methods of collecting data that help the company monitor strategies to make sure they’re effective. Strategic Planners create reports and present their findings to help the executive team make decisions.
Strategic Planner skills and qualifications
To advise a company effectively, a Strategic Planner needs to have several skills and qualifications. Some of these include:
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Strong research and data analysis skills
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Advanced understanding of business processes
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Ability to look at the big picture and prioritize projects to achieve goals
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Effective presentation skills
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Written and oral communication skills
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Creative problem-solving skills
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Leadership skills
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Ability to organize and coordinate multiple projects at once
Strategic Planner experience requirements
Candidates for a Strategic Planner position should have extensive experience in the business world. This real-world experience helps them understand business processes, decisions and goal-setting. It’s also beneficial to have previous experience as a Strategic Planner, Business Consultant or similar positions to ensure the candidate has strategic and analytical experience. Work experience in your industry makes it more likely that the job seeker understands the unique challenges and opportunities in your field, which can make them more effective at creating plans for your company.
Strategic Planner education and training requirements
Strategic Planner careers don’t require a specific degree, but most candidates have some post-secondary education. A bachelor’s degree in business administration, finance or similar business-related fields is a common requirement in Strategic Planner job descriptions. Having a master’s degree, such as an MBA, adds to the candidate’s knowledge and credibility if you prefer someone with an advanced degree. A combination of previous Strategic Planner experience and a degree can give the candidate a solid foundation for your position.
Job description samples for similar positions
While a Strategic Planner can be a useful position, your company might need something different. Here are other job descriptions for similar positions that might be a better fit:
Strategic Planner job description FAQs
What qualities make a good Strategic Planner?
A successful Strategic Planner has keen observational skills and uses logical thinking to analyze various situations. They have the company’s best interests at heart and understand your mission and vision. They’re not afraid to be creative, and they’re comfortable working with executives in sometimes stressful and often high-stakes situations.
What should you look for in a Strategic Planner resume?
Start by checking for extensive business experience, especially in management, planning or finance. Look for evidence of creating or implementing business strategies and working with the company’s goals and objectives. A candidate might get bonus points if they’ve worked for a competitor or another company in a similar industry.
Who does a Strategic Planner report to?
The structure of an organization can vary, but Strategic Planners work extensively with the management and executive teams of the company. They might report to a Manager of Strategic Planning, or they might report directly to the board. Strategic Planners often collaborate with the executive team to develop strategies for the company.
How can you make your Strategic Planner job description stand out?
Making a Strategic Planner job description stand out starts by showing how your company is unique. Mention your company’s vision and how you expect the candidate to help your organization. Share extra perks your employees receive and the types of technology and support the candidate will have if they get hired.
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