Investment Operations Manager

Job title: Investment Operations Manager

The role oversees the operational and administrative aspects of investment processes within a financial organization, such as asset management firms, hedge funds, or banks. Their role ensures that the investment operations run smoothly, efficiently, and in compliance with regulatory standards. Below is a general job description for an Investment Operations Manager:

Job Summary:

Responsible for managing and overseeing all aspects of investment operations, ensuring accuracy and compliance in transaction processing, reconciliation, reporting, and data management. This role involves close collaboration with portfolio managers, traders, custodians, and other stakeholders to support smooth and timely investment execution. The ideal candidate will possess a deep understanding of financial markets, operational processes, and regulatory frameworks.

Key Responsibilities:

-Operational Management:

  - Oversee the daily investment operations, including trade settlements, cash management, and reconciliation processes.

  - Ensure accurate and timely processing of trades, corporate actions, and other investment activities across various asset classes (equities, fixed income, derivatives, etc.).

  - Manage post-trade processes, including trade confirmations, allocations, and settlement with brokers and custodians.

-Reconciliation & Reporting:

  - Perform regular reconciliation of investment accounts, including cash and positions, ensuring data integrity and accuracy.

  - Prepare and distribute accurate portfolio and performance reports to senior management, clients, and regulatory bodies.

  - Monitor portfolio compliance and ensure adherence to investment mandates and legal guidelines.

- Systems & Technology:

  - Work with IT and third-party vendors to ensure that the trading, portfolio management, and reporting systems are functioning properly.

  - Lead efforts to streamline and automate operational processes to improve efficiency and reduce risk.

- Risk & Compliance:

  - Ensure compliance with internal policies, external regulations, and industry standards.

  - Identify operational risks and implement controls to mitigate them.

  - Collaborate with the compliance department to maintain and monitor adherence to all relevant regulatory requirements (e.g., SEC, FCA).

- Team Leadership:

  - Supervise and mentor a team of operations staff, providing training and development opportunities.

  - Ensure team performance aligns with the organization’s goals and objectives.

  - Facilitate cross-departmental communication and foster a collaborative working environment.

-Stakeholder Management:

  - Serve as the primary contact for custodians, brokers, and third-party service providers.

  - Liaise with portfolio managers, traders, and internal departments to resolve issues and improve processes.

  - Maintain strong working relationships with internal and external stakeholders to ensure seamless operations.

- Continuous Improvement:

  - Evaluate current operational workflows and implement best practices to increase efficiency.

  - Stay updated on industry trends, technological advancements, and regulatory changes, adapting strategies accordingly.

Key Qualifications:

- Education:

  - Bachelor’s degree in Finance, Accounting, Economics, Business Administration, or related field (MBA or CFA preferred).

- Experience:

  - 5-7 years of experience in investment operations, fund administration, or a related field, with at least 2-3 years in a managerial role.

  - Strong knowledge of financial products, including equities, fixed income, and derivatives.

  - Experience with portfolio management systems (e.g., Bloomberg, Aladdin, Charles River) and trade execution platforms.

- Skills:

  - Strong analytical and problem-solving abilities, with attention to detail.

  - Excellent organizational and multitasking skills in a fast-paced environment.

  - Strong leadership and team management capabilities.

  - High level of proficiency with Excel and other financial software.

  - Excellent verbal and written communication skills.