Business Optimization Analyst

*Hybrid position. Must be able to work in Brighton, MI 3 days a week. More Than A Job! Why do you work each day? To us, our jobs are not just something we do to make a living, it’s a way to live. We work to support our members; whether celebrating moments of joy, finding a solution to an obstacle, or offering encouragement through a time of struggle. The worth of our work isn’t measured in dollars and cents, it’s seen in our communities and felt by the people who believe in us. Benefits Include: Financial wellbeing services 401(K) matching with up to 5% match Reduced health insurance Employee wellbeing services DE I initiatives Work-life balance Job Summary The Business Optimization Analyst supports operational excellence initiatives across the organization by analyzing, designing, and enhancing processes within a regulated financial environment. This role focuses on reducing operational risk, strengthening internal controls, and improving efficiency in core banking, lending, investment, and compliance workflows. The analyst partners with cross-functional stakeholders including Risk, Compliance, Operations, Technology, and Audit, to deliver data ‑ driven recommendations that align with regulatory requirements and business strategy. What You’ll Do Process Analysis Optimization Analyze end to end financial operations processes (e.g., underwriting, loan servicing, KYC, transaction processing, specialty account processes, member onboarding). Identify control gaps, inefficiencies, and bottlenecks that create operational risk or impact member experience. Use Lean, Six Sigma, and other continuous improvement methodologies to develop and execute improvement plans. Risk Regulatory Alignment Assess processes to ensure alignment with regulatory requirements (e.g., FFIEC, NCUA, AML/BSA). Strengthen internal controls and documentation to support audits and risk assessments. Partner with Risk and Compliance teams to implement process changes that reduce errors and support compliance readiness. Data Performance Analytics Utilize data tools (Excel, SQL, Power BI, Tableau) to conduct root-cause analysis, trend analysis, and KPI reporting. Build dashboards and scorecards to measure process effectiveness and ongoing performance. Documentation Change Support Develop detailed process maps, SOPs, and workflow documentation that support consistent execution and audit traceability. Participate in change management activities including stakeholder communication, training, and post implementation monitoring. Support system enhancements, automation, and integration projects with IT and business partners. Cross-Functional Collaboration Facilitate workshops, working sessions, and continuous improvement initiatives with Operations, IT, Risk, Compliance, and other departments. Prepare executive ready reports, presentations, and business cases to support strategic decision making. Perform other related duties as assigned, consistent with the scope, level, and responsibilities of the position. What You’ll Bring Bachelor’s degree in business, Finance, Operations, Data Analytics, or a related field, or equivalent combination of education, training, and relevant experience. At least two years of experience in financial services operations, risk management, business analysis, or process improvement, including responsibility for documenting, analyzing, or improving business processes. At least two years' experience analyzing financial or operational data using spreadsheets, reporting tools, or query tools and presenting findings through a written report, dashboard, or formal recommendation. Demonstrated knowledge of financial workflows, internal control frameworks, and quality assurance principles, evidenced by completion of at least one process assessment, control review, audit-support activity, or comparable project. Ability to create and maintain process maps using Microsoft Visio, Lucidchart, or a comparable process-mapping application. Able to manage and execute multiple complex projects within required timelines and expectations. Understanding of both Credit Union policies and procedures as well as a working knowledge of regulatory requirements for both deposit and lending products. A record of strong communications, analytical, organizational, project management and planning skills. What You’ll Get Ability to collaborate and build a sense of togetherness that contributes to a positive work environment. Being open to change and embracing new opportunities can lead to diverse experiences and career advancement. By prioritizing member wellbeing, which leads to increased engagement, improved team dynamics, higher levels of motivation and a stronger community culture.