Manager, Network

AArete•Chicago, IL

2d•$130,000 - $165,000•Hybrid

About The Position

AArete is a global, innovative management and technology consulting firm seeking a dynamic Manager to join our Network Solutions practice. This role supports healthcare payer clients in provider network strategy, optimization, and contracting. It's a high-impact delivery role at the intersection of advanced analytics and strategic advisory work, where you will own workstreams, shape recommendations, and translate complex provider and claims data into measurable network improvements. The ideal candidate has deep payer/provider network expertise, a strong analytical foundation, and can operate as both a strategic advisor and a hands-on executor. You will be energized by complex, ambiguous challenges and know how to move from data to insight to action. As a high-performing self-starter, critical thinker, and confident communicator, you will lead network-focused client engagements and internal initiatives, driving workstreams that evaluate network performance, identify optimization opportunities, and translate insights into actionable strategies. You will mentor and guide junior team members, ensuring high-quality deliverables and strong team performance. Your expertise will be critical in delivering practical, implementation-oriented solutions that improve network value and support client growth objectives.

Requirements

6+ years of consulting experience, with increasing responsibility across client delivery and team leadership.
4+ years of experience in the healthcare industry, specifically related to payer/provider contracts.
2+ years of people management experience, with proven ability to lead and work closely with teams while also managing day-to-day responsibilities.
Bachelor's degree required.
Strong analytical skills to interpret complex data and deliver actionable insights.
Advanced proficiency utilizing Microsoft Excel and PowerPoint, with working knowledge of SQL for data analysis.
Proven project/process management skills with the ability to balance and prioritize competing responsibilities, while staying involved in detailed execution.
Track record of translating complex claims and provider data into actionable network strategies that deliver measurable financial and performance impact.
Experience working with contract modeling tools, reimbursement analytics, and provider data sources (e.g., contracts, rosters, directories).
Experience leading network optimization or provider contracting engagements across cost, quality, and access dimensions.
Comfort operating as both a strategic advisor and hands-on operator in provider network transformation.
High self-motivation, accountability, and the ability to inspire and encourage others.
Exceptional independent judgment, leadership, and decision-making capabilities.
Creative, innovative mindset with the ability to think outside the box.
Cultural flexibility and adaptability in a fast-paced environment.
Willingness to engage in direct client interaction, including travel to client locations.
Must be legally authorized to work in the United States without the need for employer sponsorship.

Nice To Haves

Experience with AArete’s other focus industries: Pharmacy, Financial Services, Retail, Manufacturing, Higher Ed, or Technology & Professional Services.
Experience in healthcare systems and digital platforms, including Provider Data Management, Claims Adjudication (e.g., Facets, QNXT, etc.), and related tools, with the ability to leverage these systems to improve data quality, operational efficiency, and end-to-end healthcare processes.
Experience designing or implementing value-based care arrangements (e.g., upside/downside risk, P4P, shared savings models).

Responsibilities

Oversee and actively engage with teams to drive successful outcomes.
Proactively lead teams to understand client needs and challenges, driving initiatives to solve issues and meet goals within specified timelines, while staying actively involved in day-to-day execution.
Lead analytical strategies, integrating insights across analyses, performing quality control on data and outputs, and developing a deep understanding of client problems to identify key issues and opportunities that prompt client action.
Collaborate with Directors, VPs, and MDs to drive project strategy and ensure alignment with client objectives, while actively contributing to execution.
Work closely with stakeholders and team members to develop creative solutions to business problems while balancing leadership and individual contributions.
Own client communications, presenting analytical findings and recommendations, and independently fielding client questions with minimal support.
Apply healthcare industry knowledge, trends, and insights to provide relevant recommendations and value for clients.
Oversee and, as needed, directly manage the gathering, refinement, and analysis of complex data sets, including medical claims, pharmacy claims, and financial data, ensuring accurate and comprehensive quantitative analysis.
Lead, mentor, and coach team members across client and internal initiatives, fostering a collaborative environment while maintaining active involvement in execution.
Manage projects effectively by working closely with internal teams and client stakeholders, ensuring all aspects of the project are handled, both strategically and operationally.
Support the design, implementation, and execution of client and internal solutions, contributing to the development and execution of solutions from the ground up.
Other duties as assigned.

Benefits

Flexible PTO
monthly half-day refuels
volunteer time off
10 paid holidays
Own Your Day flexible work policy
Competitive majority employer-paid benefits: Medical, Dental, Vision, 401K Match
Generous paid parental leave options
Employer paid Life Insurance, Short-Term Disability, and Long-Term Disability
Charitable contribution matching program
New client commission opportunities and referral bonus program
Bike share discount program