Operations Manager - Wealth & Financial Advisors

Job Title: Operations Manager

Job Type: Full-Time

Location: DIFC, Dubai

Job Purpose: We are seeking a detail-oriented and organized professional to join an esteemed Investment Advisory Firm in the role of Service & Operations. As part of a dedicated team, you will be responsible for overseeing the operational and service aspects of the firm, ensuring seamless execution of financial transactions, and delivering exceptional client service.

Key Responsibilities:

1. Develop and implement robust operational processes and procedures for the firm. Continuously evaluate and optimize workflows to enhance efficiency, minimize risks, and meet the DFSA regulatory requirements.
2. Handle a wide range of operational activities related to account openings, closures, transfers, and custodian onboardings, payments, and trade reconciliations. Ensure accuracy and timeliness in processing financial instructions.
3. Assisting the Relationship Managers with all administrative duties relating to the life of an account and deal with client correspondence, and wherever necessary communicate with the client in relation to queries.
4. Assisting the Relationship Managers with the daily monitoring of the accounts, including open trades monitoring.
5. Notify Bankers of documentation issues/pending items encountered during the development of business by the RMs.
6. Assisting the RMs in the production of pitches and presentation material for client review meetings.
7. Stay up to date with DFSA regulatory guidelines, industry best practices, and internal policies to ensure compliance in all operational transactions.
8. Act as a primary point of contact for the firm's clients, resolving their inquiries, concerns, and requests in a prompt and professional manner. Provide high-quality service that exceeds client expectations and fosters strong, long-term relationships.
9. Maintain accurate and up-to-date client documentation, ensuring compliance with Know Your Customer (KYC) and Anti-Money Laundering (AML) regulations.
10. Liaise with internal teams, such as relationship managers, investment advisors, compliance officers, and IT support, to facilitate smooth operations, address client needs, and resolve any operational issues.
11. Ensure relevant risk control measures are in place including meeting the requirements on internal standard, compliance, policies & DFSA regulations.
12. Proactively identify operational inefficiencies and propose innovative solutions to enhance the client experience, improve service delivery, and optimize operational workflows. Stay informed about industry developments and leverage automation tools and technologies where appropriate.

DFSA Regulatory Responsibilities:

1. Observe high standards of integrity and fair dealing.
2. Act with due skill, care and diligence.
3. Deal with the DFSA in an open and cooperative manner and disclose appropriately any information of which the DFSA would reasonably be expected to be notified.
4. Additionally, you must take reasonable care to ensure that the business of the Firm for which you are responsible; Is organized so that it can be managed and controlled effectively; and Complies with any legislation applicable in DIFC.

Skills & Knowledge Required:

1. In-depth knowledge of regulatory requirements and best practices within the DIFC regulations.
2. Knowledge & understanding of DFSA regulatory compliance and risk management practices within the private banking industry.
3. Excellent organizational skills with exceptional attention to detail. Ability to manage multiple tasks simultaneously and prioritize work in a fast-paced environment.
4. Strong problem-solving and analytical abilities, with excellent critical thinking skills. Demonstrated ability to identify operational gaps, formulate solutions, and execute implementation plans.
5. Outstanding communication and interpersonal skills, with the ability to build positive relationships with clients and internal stakeholders at all levels.
6. Proficiency in relevant banking systems and software, and advanced MS Excel skills.
7. Knowledge & understanding of DFSA regulatory.

Qualification & Experience Required:

1. Bachelor's degree in Finance, Business Administration, or a related field. Additional certifications in operations, banking, or project management are advantageous.
2. A minimum of 7-10 years of experience in private banking operations, wealth management, or a related field within the financial industry. Familiarity with operational processes in private banking or investment advisory firms is preferred.
3. Strong knowledge of financial instruments, transactional products, and banking operations, including securities, cash management, and custody services.

If you have the right skills and experience for this role, please apply.