Operations Specialist – Retirements in Belfast

Operations Specialist – Retirements in Belfast

Belfast Full-Time 54000 - 66000 £ / year (est.) Home office (partial)
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At a Glance

  • Tasks: Manage retirement account operations and ensure compliance with IRS regulations.
  • Company: Join Apex Fintech Solutions, a leader in digital wealth management.
  • Benefits: Enjoy competitive salary, flexible hours, and generous leave policies.
  • Other info: Dynamic work environment with opportunities for growth and innovation.
  • Why this job: Be part of a team transforming the financial industry for everyone.
  • Qualifications: Bachelor's degree and experience in retirement plan administration preferred.

The predicted salary is between 54000 - 66000 £ per year.

Apex Fintech Solutions (Apex) powers innovation and the future of digital wealth management by building tech-forward solutions that help simplify, automate, and facilitate access to financial markets for all. Our robust suite of fintech software enables us to support clients such as Stash, Betterment, SoFi, Webull, and eToro, amongst many others; collectively, Apex powers access to the stock market for over 22+ million end customers.

At Apex, we are changing how the securities industry operates by reinventing the status quo, which was manual, slow, and accessible only by the ultra-wealthy. We're digitizing and democratizing systems so that everyone has an opportunity to invest. When you're at Apex, you drive this change. You're part of a global team with a clear vision: to be the trusted technology that powers the digital economy. Our offices in Austin, Dallas, Chicago, New York, Portland, Belfast, and Manila are home to over 1,000 employees. Together, we’re shaping the future of financial innovation. Embrace change. Solve big. Win together. And be G.R.E.A.T. — grit, results, empathy, accountability, and teamwork — with Apex.

We’re proud to be recognized for the innovative work we do, the purpose-driven nature of our work, and the collaborative culture we’ve created. Here are just a few of the many awards we’ve recently received:

  • Best Places to Work 2026, 2025, 2024, 2023 - Presented by BuiltIn
  • WealthTech of the Year 2025 - Presented by US FinTech Awards
  • The World’s Top 250 Fintech Companies 2024 - Presented by CNBC

Excited to grow your career? We value our talented employees, and whenever possible strive to help one of our associates grow professionally before recruiting new talent to our open positions. If you think the open position you see is right for you, we encourage you to apply!

Apex is seeking a highly motivated Operations Analyst to support our Retirements team. This role is integral in managing the full lifecycle of retirement account operations, from contributions and distributions to tax reporting and regulatory compliance, for our introducing broker-dealers. The ideal candidate will have experience in retirement plan administration or brokerage operations, a strong understanding of IRS rules governing retirement accounts, and the ability to apply creative solutions to operational challenges.

Key Responsibilities
  • Retirement Account Operations: Process and monitor IRA contributions, Roth conversions, rollovers, Required Minimum Distributions (RMDs), and retirement plan distributions across all retirement product types including Traditional, Roth, SEP, and SIMPLE IRAs, 401(k), 403(b), pension, annuity, and HSA/ESA accounts. Ensure all transactions comply with IRS contribution limits, distribution rules, and eligibility requirements.
  • Tax Reporting & IRS Filing: Support the preparation, review, and filing of year-end tax forms including Form 1099-R (Distributions) and Form 5498 (IRA Contributions). Identify and resolve reporting discrepancies, process corrections, and ensure timely and accurate IRS submission through FIRE/IRIS filing systems.
  • Account Maintenance & Compliance: Manage beneficiary designation updates, excess contribution corrections, recharacterizations, and account restriction monitoring. Ensure all retirement account activities adhere to IRC, ERISA, and FINRA/SEC requirements.
  • Customer Support: Handle a wide range of customer inquiries and requests related to retirement accounts through email and phone, providing timely and accurate information on contribution limits, distribution options, tax implications, and beneficiary rules to enhance client satisfaction.
  • Knowledge Expansion: Continuously acquire and update knowledge of IRS regulations (Internal Revenue Code), ERISA requirements, and FINRA/SEC guidelines as they apply to retirement account operations, ensuring strict compliance and operational integrity.
  • Process Improvement: Actively participate in initiatives to improve procedures by reducing risks and enhancing operational efficiencies. Provide recommendations and insights that may influence the strategic direction of retirement services operations.
Education and Experience
  • Bachelor's Degree in Finance, Economics, Business Administration, Accounting, or a related field.
  • Proven track record in retirement plan administration, brokerage operations, or financial services operations is essential.
  • Obtain a passing score on the Securities Industry Essentials® (SIE®) Exam within your first 90 days and FINRA Series 99 within the year.
Preferred Qualifications
  • Experience: Minimum of 2 years in retirement account operations, brokerage operations, or financial services operations preferred.
  • Technical Skills: Proficiency in Microsoft Office, particularly Excel. Knowledge of SQL and data organization and Claude AI is highly desirable. Experience with tax reporting systems (FIRE/IRIS) is a plus.
  • Regulatory Knowledge: Familiarity with IRS rules governing retirement accounts (contribution limits, RMD calculations, Roth conversion rules, early distribution penalties), ERISA compliance requirements, and FINRA/SEC guidelines affecting brokerage operations.
Work Environment
  • Analytical Skills: Ability to think critically and utilize advanced problem-solving skills to address and resolve issues promptly, particularly around tax reporting accuracy and regulatory compliance.
  • Communication: Excellent verbal and written communication skills, capable of explaining complex retirement account rules to clients and engaging effectively with various stakeholders.
  • Independence: Self-motivated with the ability to operate independently while also being a cooperative and constructive team player.
  • Detail-Oriented: Exceptional attention to detail and precision in executing tasks and projects, particularly in tax form preparation and IRS filing.
  • Adaptability: Quick learner with the ability to adapt to new challenges and regulatory changes within a dynamic environment, including annual IRS contribution limit updates and evolving SECURE Act provisions. Must be prepared to learn and become proficient across multiple internal systems, platforms, and tools used in daily operations.

Please note this job description is not designed to cover or contain a comprehensive listing of activities, duties, or responsibilities required of the employee for this job. Duties, responsibilities, and activities may change at any time with or without notice.

Our Rewards

We offer a robust package of employee perks and benefits, including a market-leading salary with an annual bonus, 28 days of annual leave plus 10 Northern Ireland national holidays, a training and development budget, and a pension matched up to 7%. Our benefits also cover private health insurance for medical, dental, and optical care, and life insurance. We emphasize work-life balance with flexible working hours, parental leave, a modern city center office, and a hybrid work schedule that allows for greater flexibility by partially working from home. Additional perks include monthly catered lunches, unlimited drinks and snacks, hackathon events, poker tournaments, and a charitable matching gift program.

EEO Statement

Apex Fintech Solutions is an equal opportunity employer that does not discriminate on the basis of race, color, religion, sex (including pregnancy, sexual orientation, and gender identity), national origin, age, disability, veteran status, marital status, or any other protected characteristic. Our hiring practices ensure that all qualified applicants receive fair consideration without regard to these characteristics.

Disability Statement

Apex Fintech Solutions is committed to creating an inclusive and accessible workplace for all candidates, including those with disabilities. We are dedicated to ensuring equal employment opportunities and providing reasonable accommodations to qualified individuals with disabilities. If you require reasonable accommodations to participate in the application or interview process, please submit your request via the Candidate Accommodation Requests Form. We will work with you to provide the necessary accommodations to ensure your full participation in our hiring process.

Operations Specialist – Retirements in Belfast employer: APEX Fintech Services

Apex Fintech Solutions is an exceptional employer that prioritises employee growth and well-being, offering a market-leading salary, generous annual leave, and a comprehensive benefits package including private health insurance and a matched pension scheme. Our collaborative work culture fosters innovation and teamwork, with opportunities for professional development and a flexible hybrid work schedule that enhances work-life balance. Join us in our modern city centre office, where you can contribute to meaningful change in the financial industry while enjoying unique perks like catered lunches and engaging team events.

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Contact Details:

APEX Fintech Services Recruitment Team

StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫

We think this is how you could land Operations Specialist – Retirements in Belfast

Tap into Campus Networks

If you're still in uni, don’t forget to engage with your campus's career services and attend finance-related events. Banks often do presentations and recruitment drives on campus, so put yourself out there and make use of these opportunities to show off your passion for the field.

Get Certified

Consider pursuing relevant certifications like the CFA or ACCA while you’re job hunting. They not only beef up your CV but also connect you with professional bodies which can lead to networking opportunities and even job openings in banking and financial services.

Connect on Professional Platforms

Join finance-focused groups on platforms like LinkedIn and engage in discussions. This can really help you stand out from the crowd, allowing potential employers to see your knowledge and interest in industry trends. Plus, you might stumble upon job postings shared exclusively within the group.

Apply Directly and Be Proactive

Don’t shy away from reaching out directly to firms like APEX Fintech Services. Use their websites and apply through them, but also consider following up with a polite email to express your enthusiasm. Being proactive can make a huge difference in getting noticed in the competitive financial services sector.

We think you need these skills to ace Operations Specialist – Retirements in Belfast

Retirement Plan Administration
Brokerage Operations
IRS Rules Knowledge
Tax Reporting
Regulatory Compliance
Customer Support
Analytical Skills

Some tips for your application 🫡

Show Off Your Numbers!:In the banking and financial services world, quantifiable achievements are key. Make sure your CV highlights your grades in relevant subjects, any financial certifications you hold, and specific projects where you've delivered measurable results. Employers love to see how your skills translate into real-world success.

Tailor Your Cover Letter to the Role:When applying for a full-time position, your cover letter should make a direct connection between your experience and the job description. Don't just state your enthusiasm for finance—dive into how your background in banking or financial analysis sets you apart. Let your passion shine through while being specific about what you can bring to APEX Fintech Services.

Include Relevant Financial Software Experience:If you've worked with financial modelling tools or software like Excel, SAP, or specific analytical tools during your studies or internships, bring that up! Highlighting your proficiency can really make your application pop and show you're ready to hit the ground running in a full-time role.

Research and Reflect:Before hitting that 'apply' button on APEX Fintech Services's website, do a little digging. Look up their recent projects, values, and culture. Reflecting their ethos in your application can make a huge difference and show you’re genuinely interested in being part of the team!

How to prepare for a job interview at APEX Fintech Services

Brush Up on Financial Analysis Skills

Make sure you're well-versed in financial concepts and analytical techniques relevant to banking and financial services. Get comfortable with tools like Excel for modelling or financial forecasting, as technical questions in this area are common during interviews with APEX Fintech Services.

Prepare for Case Studies

Expect to tackle case studies that demonstrate your problem-solving skills in real-world banking scenarios. Familiarise yourself with the types of problems you might face—think risk assessments or investment evaluations—and be ready to articulate your thought process clearly.

Show Your Passion for Finance

Since this is a full-time position, employers at APEX Fintech Services will be keen to see your genuine interest in finance. Be prepared to discuss recent industry trends or news articles that excite you, showcasing your enthusiasm and engagement with the field.

Network with Industry Professionals

Before your interview, reach out to current or former APEX Fintech Services employees on platforms like LinkedIn. They'll offer unique insights into the company's culture and the interview process, which can give us a delightful edge in showcasing a good fit for the team.