IBSAG Head of Operations

As the Head of Operations, you will oversee all the operational infrastructure of the company and ensure scalable, compliant and client-centric operations that meet the high standards of High Net Worth (HNW) clients. The Head of Operations will work closely with the Chief Executive Officer and other executive team members to develop and implement strategies that enhance operational efficiency, improve customer service and ensure compliance with regulatory requirements.

About the Role

A short paragraph summarizing the key role responsibilities.

Responsibilities

• Oversee front-to-back office operations including order entry, trade processing, settlements, reconciliation, custody and reporting, ensuring all operational requirements are actioned on time in accordance with service level agreements, agreed quality standards, regulatory and company requirements.
• Ensure that all operational activities comply with HMRC and FCA regulations, including SM&CR, SYSC and COBS rules.
• Oversee production of business accounts, including Balance Sheets, Income Statements, Profit and Loss Statements and Guaranteed Income Buffer Tests, as required. Experience of ICARA reporting.
• Oversee maintenance of accurate client data on all platforms.
• Report on KPIs to UK and Switzerland executives.
• Provide management information, as applicable, to UK and Switzerland Executive.
• Manage and oversee all outsourced or offshored services, including Investec Group outsourcings/offshoring.
• Manage any Third-Party vendor relationships where service is provided in-geography.
• Drive process automation, efficiency and service quality.
• Collaborate closely with UK and Switzerland staff to support business growth.
• Identify and deliver initiatives to support improvements in business performance and service growth, in collaboration with teams in UK and Switzerland.
• Other ad-hoc tasks, as directed by the Chief Executive Officer for the UK Office and key stakeholders in Switzerland.

Other Responsibilities

• Manage stakeholders including the executive, senior management and support areas.
• Contribute to the strategic planning and development of the business as a member of the Executive Team.

Qualifications

• Strong experience in operations roles within wealth management or banking.
• Excellent standard of education, with Maths and English essential.

Required Skills

• Strong analytical skills and proficient in Microsoft packages (Excel, Word, Outlook).
• Good understanding of full Front-to-Back investment processes, including working knowledge of equities lifecycle and discretionary investment management.
• Understanding of all the following: corporate actions, trading, security settlement, reconciliation, security transfer / re-registration and account opening processes.
• Deep understanding of UK FCA rules, ideally with some experience of working in an international team applying other jurisdictional rules.
• Strong track record of systems integration platform transformation and operational due diligence.

Preferred Skills

• Maintains high levels of integrity and embraces the philosophy of treating our customers fairly and ensuring good customer outcomes.
• Excellent verbal and written communication skills in communicating with a wide audience - a clear, reasoned approach needs to be exhibited.
• Highly motivated with emphasis on attention to detail.
• Strong organisational, analytical and multi-tasking skills.
• Positive attitude, with excellent problem-solving skills.
• Strong decision-making capabilities and resilience under pressure.
• Ability to work collaboratively in a fast-paced and dynamic environment.

Any other attributes that would be helpful, but not essential for the role

• Recognised practitioner in the Operations environment and contributor to industry bodies.
• Knowledge of Swiss and EU regulatory regimes.
• Minimum Level 4 Financial Qualification preferred, e.g. IMC or IAD.