Sourcing Guide
How We Evaluate AI-First Business Ops Managers
For recruiters, talent partners, and clients
What This Role Is (and Isn’t)
This Role IS
- Running business operations with AI-first workflows
- Process automation and optimization
- Client operations and communication
- Data management and reporting
- Cross-functional coordination
This Role IS NOT
- Software engineering or coding
- Traditional executive assistant work
- Data entry without AI augmentation
- Sales or business development
- General administrative support
Where to Find Candidates
Target Companies (APAC)
- AI-forward companies: Ops teams at companies that heavily use AI tools
- BPO/outsourcing: Top performers who’ve adopted AI workflows
- Startups: Operations managers at APAC tech startups
Screening Criteria
Dimension
1 — Weak
3 — Good
5 — Exceptional
AI Fluency
Rarely uses AI. Manual workflows.
Uses AI daily. Has automated repetitive tasks.
Designs AI-augmented workflows. Trains others on AI tools.
Ops Excellence
Follows playbooks. Things fall through cracks.
Reliable execution. Clean processes. Proactive flagging.
Designs systems. Anticipates problems. Continuous improvement.
Communication
Unclear writing. Needs constant clarification.
Clear, professional English. Good async communication.
Client-ready communication. Handles difficult conversations. Documentation-first.
Data Skills
Can't work with spreadsheets effectively.
Strong Excel/Sheets. Basic SQL. Builds reports.
Data analysis. Dashboard creation. Automation with APIs.
Startup Fit
Needs rigid structure. Can't handle ambiguity.
Self-directed. Comfortable with changing priorities.
Thrives in chaos. Creates order. Owns outcomes.
Interview Process
Step 1: Resume Screen (5 min)
- Has ops experience at a tech company or startup
- Evidence of AI tool usage
- Strong English communication
Step 2: Ops Screen (30 min)
- “Walk me through a process you automated or improved. What tools did you use?”
- “How do you use AI in your daily work? Give me specific examples.”