At a Glance
- Tasks: Lead operational teams to deliver top-notch SIPP and SSAS administration services.
- Company: Award-winning provider of innovative retirement planning solutions.
- Benefits: Competitive salary, hybrid working, and opportunities for professional growth.
- Other info: Join a dynamic team focused on collaboration and accountability.
- Why this job: Make a real impact in the financial services sector while driving continuous improvement.
- Qualifications: Strong operations experience, preferably in pensions or financial services.
The predicted salary is between 40000 - 50000 € per year.
Location: North West England, with hybrid working available
Salary: Competitive, depending on experience
About the business
They are a specialist, award‐winning provider of Self‐Invested Personal Pensions (SIPPs) and Small Self‐Administered Schemes (SSAS), working with authorised financial advisers across the UK. Their products are designed to offer flexible, efficient, and personal retirement planning solutions for clients with a wide range of needs. The business has a long‐standing presence in the UK pensions market and manages billions of pounds in assets through a robust and technology‐led platform.
Their flagship SIPP was launched over 20 years ago to provide a more flexible approach to retirement planning than traditional insurance‐based pension plans. It allows a broader range of investments than many standard products, including commercial property and land, unit trusts and OEICs, and individual stocks, shares and ETFs. Plans can be tailored from a streamlined, low‐cost entry‐level option through to the full SIPP offering, enabling advisers to match investment choice and cost to their clients' needs. They also offer a SSAS solution aimed at business owners who wish to manage their pension arrangements alongside their business, using the specific legislative features available under SSAS.
The role
They are seeking an experienced and highly organised Operations Manager to lead the operational delivery of their SIPP and SSAS administration services. This role sits at the heart of the business, supporting financial advisers and scheme members by ensuring accurate, timely, and compliant processing of transactions, instructions, and queries.
The successful candidate will manage operational teams, oversee workflow and service levels, and drive continuous improvement across processes and systems. They will combine strong leadership with a hands‐on, detail‐oriented approach and will be comfortable working in a regulated financial services environment. The role acts as a key link between front‐office, technology, and support functions, helping to translate business priorities into effective operational delivery.
Key responsibilities
- Lead and support operational teams to deliver high‐quality, accurate, and compliant administration of SIPP and SSAS plans.
- Oversee daily workflow, resource planning, and capacity management to meet service levels and SLAs.
- Identify, design, and implement process improvements to increase efficiency, reduce risk, and improve client and adviser experience.
- Work closely with senior stakeholders, including technology, compliance, and product teams, to support business objectives and service development.
- Ensure procedures, controls, and documentation are aligned to regulatory and governance requirements.
- Support change initiatives, system enhancements, and automation projects, including those that improve straight‐through processing and reporting.
- Monitor and report on team performance, key metrics, and operational incidents.
- Promote a culture of accountability, collaboration, and continuous improvement within the operations function.
About the candidate
- Strong experience in operations, preferably within pensions, financial services, or a regulated financial environment.
- Proven people management experience, with the ability to lead, coach, and motivate teams.
- Excellent organisational and problem‐solving skills; able to manage multiple priorities in a fast‐paced environment.
- A strong focus on process improvement, service delivery, and operational risk.
- Confident engaging with colleagues, senior stakeholders, and external partners.
- Knowledge of SIPPs and/or SSAS and of advised, adviser‐facing service models would be highly beneficial.
Desirable
- Experience working in a specialist pensions administration environment.
- Familiarity with pension platforms, trust structures, and cash deposit arrangements.
- Understanding of operational controls, governance, and regulatory frameworks.
- Experience with transformation, automation, or change projects, including system or workflow improvements.
Operations Manager in Newcastle upon Tyne employer: Cameron Kennedy
As an Operations Manager at this award-winning provider of Self-Invested Personal Pensions (SIPPs) and Small Self-Administered Schemes (SSAS), you will thrive in a dynamic and supportive work culture that prioritises employee growth and development. With hybrid working options available in North West England, the company fosters a collaborative environment where innovation is encouraged, and your contributions directly impact the delivery of high-quality financial services. Join a team that values accountability and continuous improvement, offering you the chance to lead operational excellence while managing a diverse range of pension solutions.
StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫
We think this is how you could land Operations Manager in Newcastle upon Tyne
✨Tip Number 1
Network like a pro! Reach out to your connections in the financial services sector, especially those who know about SIPPs and SSAS. Attend industry events or webinars to meet potential employers and get your name out there.
✨Tip Number 2
Prepare for interviews by researching the company and its products. Understand their approach to retirement planning and think about how your experience can enhance their operations. We want you to shine when discussing your ideas!
✨Tip Number 3
Showcase your leadership skills! Be ready to share examples of how you've successfully managed teams and improved processes in previous roles. This is your chance to demonstrate that you're the Operations Manager they need.
✨Tip Number 4
Don’t forget to apply through our website! It’s the best way to ensure your application gets noticed. Plus, we love seeing candidates who are proactive about their job search.
We think you need these skills to ace Operations Manager in Newcastle upon Tyne
Some tips for your application 🫡
Tailor Your CV:Make sure your CV is tailored to the Operations Manager role. Highlight your experience in pensions and financial services, and don’t forget to showcase your people management skills. We want to see how you can lead teams and improve processes!
Craft a Compelling Cover Letter:Your cover letter is your chance to shine! Use it to explain why you're the perfect fit for this role. Mention specific examples of how you've improved operations or led teams in the past. We love a good story that shows your passion for the industry!
Showcase Your Problem-Solving Skills:In your application, be sure to highlight your organisational and problem-solving skills. Give us examples of how you've managed multiple priorities in a fast-paced environment. We’re looking for someone who can think on their feet and drive continuous improvement!
Apply Through Our Website:Don’t forget to apply through our website! It’s the best way for us to receive your application and ensures you’re considered for the role. Plus, it gives you a chance to explore more about our company and what we stand for!
How to prepare for a job interview at Cameron Kennedy
✨Know Your Stuff
Make sure you brush up on your knowledge of SIPPs and SSAS. Understand the key features, benefits, and regulatory requirements. This will not only show your expertise but also demonstrate your genuine interest in the role.
✨Showcase Your Leadership Skills
Prepare examples of how you've successfully led teams in the past. Think about specific challenges you faced and how you motivated your team to overcome them. This is crucial for an Operations Manager role, so be ready to discuss your management style.
✨Be Process-Oriented
Since the role focuses on process improvement, come prepared with ideas on how to enhance operational efficiency. Think about any past experiences where you identified a problem and implemented a successful solution. This will highlight your proactive approach.
✨Engage with Stakeholders
Demonstrate your ability to work with various stakeholders by discussing how you've collaborated with different departments in previous roles. Highlight your communication skills and how you ensure everyone is aligned towards common goals.
