Lead Associate

Overview We are looking for accounting-oriented investment professionals who are highly motivated, enjoy working in a team environment, and desire to be part of a forward looking investment operations team. The optimal candidate must have excellent investment accounting skills and exhibit a strong interest in applying technology solutions to the role. You will be responsible for the accounting and administration of domestic and global investment portfolios (separately managed accounts). Your role will focus on the relationships between our custodian banks and internal parties as a problem solver, conflict resolver and relationship builder. Responsibilities Interface daily with custodian bank, third party administrator, portfolio management and analytics to guide communication between parties to resolve complex issues Daily reconciliation of portfolio cash accounts with prime broker, custodian bank and third-party administrator Completion of monthly reconciliation of clearing broker futures and options statements as well as centrally cleared derivative statements Completion of monthly reconciliation of investment holdings, cash, cash equivalents, forward foreign exchange and pricing to custodian bank and/or third party administrator Researching and analyzing discrepancies between Western Asset and the clients/funds designated prime broker or custodian bank. Ensuring that discrepancies are communicated to designated contacts and adequately resolved Preparation and review of performance returns for designated client portfolios Creation of accounting reports to meet custom reporting requests Identification of funding requirements and overdrafts to ensure sufficient monies available at the prime broker or custodian bank to meet settlement of executed transactions Assist the team supervisor in establishing operating policies and procedures for the team Qualifications Strong computer skills required, particularly in Microsoft Excel Experience with industry-specific analytical tools such as Bloomberg, Tableau and Smartsheet is a plus Knowledge and/ or experience with the followin