Principal Operations Manager

Secure Every Identity, from AI to Human Identity is the key to unlocking the potential of AI. Okta secures AI by building the trusted, neutral infrastructure that enables organizations to safely embrace this new era. This work requires a relentless drive to solve complex challenges with real-world stakes. We are looking for builders and owners who operate with speed and urgency and execute with excellence. This is an opportunity to do career-defining work. We're all in on this mission. If you are too, let's talk. Principal Operations Manager Summary We are seeking a seasoned, high-impact leader to spearhead Workforce Strategy & Operations for Okta Research and Development (ORD). In this critical role, you will serve as a strategic architect, partnering with Senior R&D leadership to design a workforce vision that scales with our technical ambitions. You will own the operational ecosystem in lockstep with Finance and Recruiting, building the frameworks necessary to achieve aggressive hiring targets, manage attrition proactively, and ensure long-term organizational health. To excel, you must possess an 'owner mentality' and a bias toward action. We are looking for an exceptional collaborator who is energized by complex problem-solving and dedicated to swift, precise execution. You don’t just manage processes—you proactively identify gaps, drive operational improvements, and engineer innovative solutions that empower the R&D organization to scale." Responsibilities Partner with Senior R&D leaders to drive strategic headcount allocation, ensuring organizational structures align with technical roadmaps. Manage the end-to-end headcount lifecycle, including position detailing, organizational design changes, and internal mobility tracking. Collaborate with Finance and HR Operations to ensure Workday serves as the "single source of truth," maintaining 100% accuracy in position data and system reflections. Serve as the primary liaison between FP&A and Recruiting to synchronize headcount targets with budgetary constraints and hiring velocity. Lead the development and execution of comprehensive change management strategies and communication plans regarding resource allocation and organizational shifts. Partner with HR on high-level organizational restructures and sensitive transactions, ensuring data precision and confidentiality. Serve as the primary liaison to Accounting for R&D financial reporting, overseeing the tracking and documentation of capitalized software development and R&D tax credit eligibility. Qualifications Minimum 8 years of cross-functional experience across Program/Project Management, Finance, Operations, and HR/Workforce Management. Bachelor’s Degree (BS/BA) is required. A proven track record of managing multi-million dollar budgets and orchestrating large-scale programs where high accountability and data-driven impact are the standard. Exceptional ability to navigate complex organizational dynamics with total discretion; possesses the "organizational gravity" to advise and influence VP-level and C-suite stakeholders. Masterful verbal and written communication skills, with a specific talent for synthesizing complex operational data into clear, compelling narratives for executive consumption. Prior experience thriving within a high-growth SaaS or Cloud Computing environment is highly preferred, with an understanding of the unique talent needs of engineering and product organizations. Strong program management skills, creative problem solving practices, detail-oriented and precise execution, and an ability to learn quickly in a fast-paced, technical environment. Requires in-person onboarding and travel to our San Francisco, CA HQ office or our Chicago office during the first week of employment. #LI-Hybrid #LI-LSS1 requisition ID- P24639_3358058 The OTE range for this position for candidates located in the San Francisco Bay area is between: $224,000—$308,000 USD Below is the annual On Target Compensation (OTE) range for candidates located in California (excluding San Francisco Bay Area), Colorado, Illinois, New York and Washington. Your actual OTE, which is inclusive of base salary and incentive compensation, will depend on factors such as your skills, qualifications, experience, and work location. In addition, Okta offers equity (where applicable) and benefits, including health, dental and vision insurance, 401(k), flexible spending account, and paid leave (including PTO and parental leave) in accordance with our applicable plans and policies. To learn more about our Total Rewards program please visit: https://rewards.okta.com/us. The annual OTE range for this position for candidates located in California (excluding San Francisco Bay Area), Colorado, Illinois, New York, and Washington is between: $200,000—$247,000 USD The Okta Experience Supporting Your Well-Being Driving Social Impact Developing Talent and Fostering Connection + Community We are intentional about connection. Our global community, spanning over 20 offices worldwide, is united by a drive to innovate. Your journey begins with an immersive, in-person onboarding experience designed to accelerate your impact and connect you to our mission and team from day one. Okta is an Equal Opportunity Employer. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, ancestry, marital status, age, physical or mental disability, or status as a protected veteran. We also consider for employment qualified applicants with arrest and convictions records, consistent with applicable laws. If reasonable accommodation is needed to complete any part of the job application, interview process, or onboarding please use this Form to request an accommodation. Notice for New York City Applicants & Employees: Okta may use Automated Employment Decision Tools (AEDT), as defined by New York City Local Law 144, that use artificial intelligence, machine learning, or other automated processes to assist in our recruitment and hiring process. In accordance with NYC Local Law 144, if you are an applicant or employee residing in New York City, please click here to view our full NYC AEDT Notice. Okta is committed to complying with applicable data privacy and security laws and regulations. For more information, please see our Personnel and Job Candidate Privacy Notice at https://www.okta.com/legal/personnel-policy/.