Associate Director Operations (US/UK Transfer Agency Operations)
Location:
Position Overview
We are seeking an experienced and dynamic Associate Director – Operations to lead and oversee US & UK Transfer Agency Operations. The role requires a seasoned operations leader with strong domain expertise in Transfer Agency, proven people management capabilities, and the ability to drive operational excellence, process improvements, and strategic initiatives.
The successful candidate will be responsible for managing multiple operational teams, ensuring service delivery excellence, maintaining regulatory compliance, and contributing to the organization's growth and operational strategy.
Key Responsibilities
Operational Leadership
- Lead multiple teams responsible for delivering US & UK Transfer Agency operations for a diverse portfolio of clients.
- Ensure efficient execution of operational processes while maintaining high standards of accuracy, productivity, and client service.
- Drive consistency and standardization across Transfer Agency functions.
- Establish and monitor operational KPIs, SLAs, and quality metrics to ensure business objectives are achieved.
Strategic Management
- Develop and execute business plans aligned with organizational goals.
- Contribute to the development and implementation of functional and operational strategies.
- Identify opportunities for operational improvements, automation, and process optimization.
- Analyze operational trends and implement initiatives to enhance team performance and service quality.
Financial & Resource Management
- Manage financial and human resources for the assigned business unit.
- Develop, manage, and monitor departmental budgets.
- Ensure optimal resource allocation to support business objectives and client requirements.
Transfer Agency Oversight
- Establish guidelines and controls for:
- Processing distributions
- Timely completion of financial transactions
- Audit support and fulfillment
- Gain and loss reporting
- Ensure adherence to operational controls, regulatory requirements, and internal policies.
People Leadership & Talent Development
- Lead, mentor, and develop high-performing teams.
- Drive employee engagement, performance management, and succession planning initiatives.
- Oversee hiring, talent acquisition, and workforce planning activities.
- Conduct performance evaluations and support merit-based reward and recognition programs.
- Develop and implement training and career development plans for associates and managers.
Risk, Compliance & Governance
- Ensure compliance with all regulatory, legal, risk, and corporate governance requirements.
- Partner with internal stakeholders to maintain strong operational controls and risk management practices.
- Support internal and external audits and ensure timely closure of observations.
Required Qualifications
Education
- Bachelor's or Master's Degree in Finance, Accounting, Business Administration, or a related discipline.
Experience
- 15–20 years of overall experience in Financial Services Operations.
- Extensive experience in Transfer Agency Operations is mandatory.
- Minimum 7–10 years of people management experience.
- Prior experience as a Senior Manager, Director, or equivalent leadership role within Transfer Agency Operations preferred.
Required Skills & Competencies
- Strong expertise in US & UK Transfer Agency Operations.
- Proven leadership and people management capabilities.
- Excellent stakeholder and client management skills.
- Strong business acumen and strategic thinking abilities.
- Exceptional communication and presentation skills.
- Experience in process improvement, transformation, and operational excellence initiatives.
- Strong analytical and problem-solving skills.
- Ability to manage multiple teams and complex operational environments.
- High level of accountability, ownership, and decision-making capability.
Preferred Attributes
- High-energy and results-driven professional.
- Strong interpersonal and influencing skills.
- Ability to drive change and lead organizational transformation initiatives.
- Demonstrated success in building, developing, and retaining high-performing teams.
- Experience managing large-scale operations and global stakeholder relationships.
