At a Glance
- Tasks: Drive global operations and lead change initiatives in a fast-growing investment business.
- Company: Join Mercer, a dynamic investment firm experiencing rapid growth and expansion.
- Benefits: Competitive salary, diverse work environment, and opportunities for professional development.
- Other info: Collaborative culture with opportunities for international travel and career advancement.
- Why this job: Make a significant impact while shaping the future of investment management.
- Qualifications: 15+ years in asset management with strong leadership and operational expertise.
The predicted salary is between 150000 - 200000 £ per year.
A compelling opportunity to join a fast‑growing investment business at a time of strategic expansion and make a huge impact. Mercer is undertaking an initiative to establish a new operating model and technology platform to support ambitious growth; the Direct Investment Unit (DIU) will grow at ~30% per year and expand regionally.
The role involves driving the global operations and change activities of the DIU, overseeing technology infrastructure, and coordinating support teams. The COO will design, execute, and continuously improve the DIU operating model, enabling profitable growth, operational excellence, and strong client outcomes. The role focuses on delivering solutions, developing talent, and overseeing risk management.
Key Responsibilities:- Operate the MID and back‑office functions cost‑effectively and soundly.
- Outsource non‑strategic operational functions.
- Work with regional COO teams to launch and manage pooled funds.
- Collaborate with the head of Investment Technology to deliver new tech platforms, systems infrastructure, modern data architecture, and data engineering.
- Ensure fit‑for‑purpose change management resources.
- Deliver large‑scale change management projects, including Project Everest.
- Manage custodians, pooled fund providers, and other strategic outsourced relationships.
- At least 15 years’ experience in asset management, culminating in a senior operations role.
- Proven success leading a complex investment operations organization with strong client delivery and a strong control environment.
- Deep expertise in operations, technology, and operating‑model design.
- Strong understanding of regulatory frameworks.
- Experience more important than academic qualifications; a degree expected. MBA or IMC is a nice to have.
- Deep experience in asset management operations leadership.
- Experience delivering derivatives (OTC and exchange‑traded), funds, and cash securities.
- Change management, including implementing systems infrastructure (Charles River, Broadridge, Bloomberg, Aladdin, etc.).
- Launch and management of pooled funds, potentially with third parties.
- Understanding of UK, European, and US asset‑management regulatory landscape (MiFID, EMIR, etc.).
- Knowledge of pooled fund structures relevant to institutional investors.
- Broad awareness of the technological underpinnings of operational systems.
- Comprehensive knowledge of regulatory and compliance implications.
- Understanding of data management and analytics to improve business value.
- Ability to apply technology for standardisation and operational efficiency.
- Collaborative team player who leads, motivates, and empowers colleagues.
- Pragmatic, organised, and results‑oriented.
- Strategic thinker who switches comfortably between big picture and detail.
- Delivery‑focused with high energy and drive.
- Ability to cut through complexity and provide simple pragmatic solutions.
- Constructively challenges at all levels and pulls teams together to resolve issues.
- Communicates with impact and focus, navigating a large global organisation.
- Willing to work internationally, with some travel between offices.
Mercer is an equal‑opportunity employer and welcomes applications from all backgrounds.
Global COO – Investment Management, Direct Investment Unit employer: Mercer
Mercer is an exceptional employer, offering a dynamic work environment that fosters innovation and growth within the investment management sector. With a strong focus on employee development and a collaborative culture, team members are empowered to drive impactful change while enjoying competitive benefits and opportunities for international exposure. Joining Mercer means being part of a forward-thinking organisation that values diversity and is committed to operational excellence in a rapidly expanding market.
StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫
We think this is how you could land Global COO – Investment Management, Direct Investment Unit
✨Get Involved in Finance Communities
Join investment and asset management forums or local finance meetups. Engaging with professionals in these circles can not only help you learn the ropes but also put you in touch with potential employers like Mercer, who often scout for talent at such events.
✨Utilise Networking Platforms
Connect with professionals already working in asset management on platforms like LinkedIn. A personal message showing your interest in their role or asking for advice can lead to significant connections that might tip the scales in your favour at companies like Mercer.
✨Show Off Your Financial Skills
Consider contributing to investment blogs or even creating your own content. Sharing your insights and analyses can demonstrate your knowledge and passion for the industry, making you stand out when applying for roles at organisations like Mercer.
✨Engage with Recruitment Events
Attend finance recruitment fairs and expos. These events are perfect for making a strong impression with recruiters and potentially securing interviews. Many companies, including Mercer, attend these events to scout for fresh talent, so make sure you stand out with your enthusiasm and knowledge!
We think you need these skills to ace Global COO – Investment Management, Direct Investment Unit
Some tips for your application 🫡
Highlight Your Analytical Skills:In asset management, it's all about the numbers! Make sure your CV showcases your analytical skills, particularly any experience with financial modelling or quantitative analysis. Employers like Mercer want to see how you can dissect data and turn it into actionable insights, so don't hold back on your achievements!
Show Off Your Relevant Qualifications:Having the right qualifications can be a game changer in investment roles. If you've got a degree in finance, economics, or a related field, flaunt it! Also, if you have any certifications like CFA or CAIA, mention those too. It’ll help demonstrate your commitment and expertise in the field to Mercer.
Tailor Your Cover Letter to Reflect Passion for Investment:Your cover letter is your chance to express your enthusiasm for the investment world. Share why you're drawn to asset management and your understanding of market trends. The hiring team at Mercer will be keen to see that passion and how you keep up with industry news and developments.
Quantify Your Achievements:Don’t just tell them what you did - show them! When detailing your previous experience, include quantifiable achievements to illustrate your impact. Whether it’s percentage growth on a portfolio or cost savings in a project, these figures will help your application stand out to Mercer. Numbers speak louder than words!
How to prepare for a job interview at Mercer
✨Brush Up on Financial Modelling
For a role in investment asset management, being well-versed in financial modelling is crucial. Make sure you can articulate your experience with tools like Excel or any specialised software you've used. Maybe even prepare a couple of examples of financial models you've built or analysed.
✨Know Your Investment Strategies
Expect questions around different investment strategies and how you would apply them in various market scenarios. Get ready to discuss current market trends and how they impact portfolio management. This shows you're not just about the theory but also keeping an eye on real-world applications.
✨Show Your Analytical Skills
Since this is a full-time role, companies like Mercer want to see your analytical thinking in action. Prepare to solve case studies or tackle some numerical puzzles during the interview. Practicing these types of questions will boost your confidence and show off your skills.
✨Discuss Your Long-Term Career Goals
As you’re applying for a full-time position, the interviewers will be interested in your commitment to the field. Be ready to discuss how this role fits into your long-term career plans in asset management. This shows you're not just looking for any job, but you’re genuinely interested in growing withMercer.
