SMCR Manager – 6 Month Fixed Term Contract in London

You will report to the SMCR Director and partner with HR colleagues in Risk, Talent, Business Partnering, Talent Acquisition, HR Operations and Reward, in addition to the broader regional Compliance team with particular focus on the delivery of all aspects of the Senior Manager and Certification Regime. This role is a 6‑month fixed term contract.

Responsibilities

• SMCR Project Responsibilities
  • Support the creation and improvement of policies, frameworks and processes for Senior Manager (SMF), Certified Persons (CPs) and the UK Conduct Rules Population.
  • Work closely with EMEA Compliance team, HR Business Partners and Reward team to ensure SMCR processes and policies used within HR are aligned to legislative and regulatory change.
  • Provide support for the implementation of a new SMCR management system, including process mapping and documentation, identification of process improvements and automation opportunities. A key focus will be to reconcile SMCR data sources prior to input into the new system.
• SMCR Administration Responsibilities
  • Management of CP lifecycle processes, including but not limited to Fit & Proper assessments, Certification, FCA Directory maintenance and related reporting.
  • Management of the SMCR system to ensure complete and accurate records of all SMF related documentation and CP data.
  • Production of all SMCR reporting materials.
  • Support for Talent Acquisition with SMF/CP queries (to include screening queries).
  • Senior stakeholder management and collaboration, with EMEA SMFs, US SMFs (including support staff) and CPs, in relation to ongoing SMCR exercises.

Essential Capabilities

• Experience of delivering SMCR to ensure continual compliance with regulatory and internal policies and processes.
• Experience using SMCR Management systems for maintaining records and managing the certification process.
• Advanced attention to detail and analytical capability.
• Strong interpersonal skills, with the ability to communicate and influence effectively at a senior executive level.
• Previous experience in Compliance functions and/or ability to partner with Compliance and Operational Risk teams within Financial Services.

Preferred Capabilities

• Structured, focused, methodical approach: adhering to and continually improving processes.
• Comfortable in taking ownership of controls and processes and communicating with/educating colleagues.
• Experience in a fast‑paced environment, with an ability to manage multiple deliverables and balance priorities.
• Work comfortably in HR environment, strong sense of discretion and integrity critical.

In-Office Collaboration

We are a client‑centric, relationship‑based business. Working together, in‑person, is foundational to how we achieve results. By fostering a culture of face‑to‑face collaboration, idea sharing, productivity and personal connection, we deliver for our stakeholders — clients, advisors, employees and shareholders. Our employees work in the office at least four (4) days per week, with flexibility to work from home one (1) day per week. Some roles may require additional in‑office time or different in‑office expectations, and specific requirements will be discussed during the hiring process.

Equal Opportunity & Inclusion Statements

Columbia Threadneedle is a people business, and we recognise that our success is due to our talented people, who bring diversity of thought, complementary skills and capabilities. We are committed to fostering an inclusive and performance‑based culture where everyone can belong, grow, contribute and realise their potential. We appreciate that work‑life balance is an important factor for many when considering their next move so please discuss any flexible working requirements directly with your recruiter. Columbia Threadneedle Investments is an equal opportunity employer. We consider all qualified applicants without regard to racial or ethnic background, religion or belief, sex or gender, nationality, genetic information, age, sexual orientation, gender identity, disability, marital status, pregnancy or maternity or any other basis prohibited by law. We are committed to fostering an inclusive and accessible recruitment process for individuals with disabilities. If you require a reasonable accommodation to aid your participation in the application or interview process, speak to your recruiter to discuss how we can support you.