Operations Manager: DM

Job Summary

To oversee the effective and efficient management of data, securities and portfolios processes within the Specialised Services department, ensuring compliance with industry regulations, accuracy in data handling, and optimisation of operational workflows.

Key Responsibilities:

1. Data Management

• Ensure the accuracy, integrity, and security of all investment-related data.
• Oversee data collection, analysis, and reporting processes to support investment decision-making.
• Implement and maintain robust data governance policies and procedures.

2. Securities and Portfolios Administration

• Manage all securities and portfolio operations, including trade settlements, reconciliations, and corporate actions.
• Ensure timely and accurate processing of transactions in compliance with regulatory requirements.
• Liaise with custodians, brokers, and other counterparties to resolve discrepancies.

3. Process Improvement & Strategic Input

• Review performance data that includes activity reports and spreadsheets, to monitor and measure departmental productivity, goal achievement, and overall effectiveness.
• Plan, evaluate, and improve the efficiency of business processes and procedures to enhance speed, quality, efficiency, and output.
• Identify inefficiencies in operations and recommend improvements to streamline workflows.
• Implement automation tools and technologies to enhance operational efficiency.
• Develop and monitor key performance indicators (KPIs) for the team.

4. Compliance and Regulatory

• Ensure compliance with relevant regulations, industry standards and internal policies.
• Assist in audits and regulatory examinations, providing necessary documentation and explanations related to the team.
• Contribute to analysis and implementation of process changes focusing on risk reduction and efficiency.
• Monitor and mitigate operational risks related to portfolios and securities management.

5. Reporting and Controls

• Prepare periodic reports for management, as necessary or requested, to track strategic goal accomplishment.
• Establish and maintain relevant controls and feedback systems to monitor the operation of the cluster.

6. Team Leadership

• Lead, mentor, and develop a high-performing operations team, ensuring high performance and professional development.
• Set clear goals, provide regular feedback, and conduct performance reviews.
• Delegate tasks effectively and ensure team members meet their objectives and deadlines.
• Foster a culture of continuous improvement and accountability, instilling the values, mission and vision of the organisation.
• Lead and manage change initiatives related to business requirements, ensuring minimal disruption to existing operations and the buy-in from team members.
• Provide guidance and support to employees, teams and clients impacted by changes, addressing concerns and facilitating adoption.

7. Stakeholder Engagement

• Foster existing business relationships to ensure effective and efficient delivery, working with compliance and operations teams to gather necessary data and insights.
• Facilitate coordination and communication between the various support functions.
• Maintain transparent communication by appropriately communicating organisation information through team meetings, one-on-one meetings, and appropriate email and regular interpersonal communication.
• Collaborate with external service providers where need be.

8. Ad-Hoc Tasks

• Perform ad-hoc operational and reporting tasks as requested by senior management.
• Ensure ad-hoc requests are handled efficiently and accurately.

Qualifications & Experience

• Bachelor's degree in Finance, Business Administration, or related field.
• Minimum 5-7 years of experience in operations management within investment administration or financial services.
• Proven expertise in data management and operations.
• Proficiency in financial systems and investment platforms (e.g., Bloomberg).
• In-depth knowledge of regulatory frameworks governing investment operations.

Competencies

• Adaptability: The ability and willingness to be flexible, to adapt to and work effectively within a variety of changing situations and with various individuals and groups.
• Change Management: The ability to effectively lead and support organisational transitions and transformations. Managing change initiatives to ensure smooth adaptation while minimising disruption to operations.
• Client Focus: Prioritizes client needs and ensures high levels of client satisfaction.
• Effective Communication: The ability to clearly convey information, ideas, and expectations through various channels, while also listening actively and understanding others' perspectives.
• Judgement & Decision Making: The ability to make informed, timely, and effective decisions through analysing information, weighing potential outcomes, and selecting the best course of action to resolve issues and capitalise on opportunities.
• Leadership: Demonstrates the ability to lead, motivate, inspire, and develop a team.
• Problem & Analytical Analysis: Ability to analyse complex problems, identify root causes, and develop innovative solutions.
• Process Improvement: Identifies and implements opportunities for enhancing operational efficiency and effectiveness.
• Risk Management: Ability to systematically identify, assess, and mitigate potential threats to ensure organisational resilience and strategic success.
• Stakeholder Management: The ability to identify, engage, and maintain productive relationships with key stakeholders that have an interest in or influence over a project, initiative, or organisational outcome.
• Strategic Thinking: The ability to anticipate future trends, challenges, and opportunities, and to develop long-term plans that align with organisational goals.