At a Glance
- Tasks: Lead and enhance operational platforms across multiple jurisdictions for strategic growth.
- Company: Dynamic financial institution with a focus on innovation and operational excellence.
- Benefits: Competitive salary, professional development, and opportunities for leadership.
- Other info: Join a high-performing team and promote a culture of collaboration and accountability.
- Why this job: Shape the future of operations in a global context and drive impactful change.
- Qualifications: 12+ years in wealth management or asset management with regulatory experience.
The predicted salary is between 120000 - 150000 £ per year.
Group-wide remit across Switzerland, Cyprus, UK and ADGM. Reporting line: Group CEO / Group COO.
Key Stakeholders: Investment Committee, Head of Investments, Finance, Compliance, Technology, External Regulators, Board Members and Strategic Service Providers.
Location: Zurich, Switzerland.
Role Level: Associate Level.
Role Purpose: The Group Director – Operations, Platforms & Governance is responsible for designing, leading and continuously enhancing the Group’s operational platform across all jurisdictions. The role ensures that governance, regulatory infrastructure, technology, operational processes and reporting capabilities fully support the Group’s strategic growth ambitions while maintaining the highest standards of operational excellence, regulatory compliance and client service. The successful candidate will act as the operational architect of the Group, translating strategic objectives into scalable operating models, efficient processes and robust governance frameworks.
Core Responsibilities:
- Group Governance & Regulatory Oversight: Lead and oversee governance frameworks across all Group entities, ensuring ongoing regulatory compliance for the FINMA‑regulated Swiss entity and oversight across Cyprus, UK and ADGM.
- Operations & Operating Model: Design, implement and continuously improve the Group operating model.
- Platforms, Data & Technology: Own the Group operational technology roadmap.
- Client Operations & Business Support: Lead operational execution supporting business growth.
- Reporting & Management Information: Develop a best‑in‑class reporting environment.
- Leadership: Build and lead a high‑performing Operations function.
- Innovation & Continuous Improvement: Drive operational transformation through technology and innovation.
Key Deliverables (First 12 Months):
- Fully operational Group Operating Model
- Elimination of outstanding regulatory remediation actions
- Group‑wide governance framework implemented
- Integrated reporting platform operational
- Client onboarding fully standardised
- Data governance framework established
- Operational automation roadmap delivered
- Transfer pricing framework implemented
- Cross‑jurisdiction operating model aligned
Key Performance Indicators:
- Governance KPIs: Zero overdue regulatory filings, Zero overdue audit remediation actions, 100% Board documentation delivered on time, No material regulatory breaches
- Operations KPIs: 20% reduction in operational processing time, 30% reduction in manual workflows, Improved turnaround times across jurisdictions, SLA implementation across all Group entities
- Technology KPIs: Successful implementation of automation initiatives, Data accuracy above agreed threshold, Reduced reconciliation errors, Stable reporting infrastructure
- Business Support KPIs: Successful client onboarding delivery, Successful client migration execution, Operational support for strategic growth initiatives, Delivery of new market operating capabilities
- Leadership KPIs: High employee engagement, Strong internal stakeholder satisfaction, Talent development and succession plans completed
Required Experience:
- 12+ years within Wealth Management, Private Banking or Asset Management
- Proven experience in regulated financial institutions
- Strong knowledge of FINMA regulatory environment
- Experience across multi‑jurisdictional organisations
- Track record leading operational transformation
- Experience implementing technology and automation initiatives
- Strong Board‑level exposure
- Vendor and outsourcing management experience
Competencies:
- Strategic thinking
- Operational excellence
- Executive communication
- Leadership
- Decision making
- Commercial awareness
- Stakeholder management
- Negotiation
- Problem solving
- Attention to detail
- Ability to execute at pace
Success Profile: The successful candidate will demonstrate strong ownership mentality, exceptional execution capability, ability to simplify complexity, high credibility with Boards, regulators and senior executives, strong commercial judgement, passion for operational excellence, calm decision‑making under pressure, continuous improvement mindset, and ability to build scalable infrastructure supporting future growth.
Group Director - Operations, Platforms & Governance employer: SIGNET
As a Group Director - Operations, Platforms & Governance based in Zurich, you will join a forward-thinking organisation that prioritises operational excellence and regulatory compliance across multiple jurisdictions. The company fosters a collaborative work culture that encourages innovation and continuous improvement, offering ample opportunities for professional growth and development. With a commitment to employee engagement and a focus on delivering exceptional client service, this role provides a unique chance to shape the operational landscape of a dynamic financial institution.
StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫
We think this is how you could land Group Director - Operations, Platforms & Governance
✨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 SIGNET. 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 Group Director - Operations, Platforms & Governance
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 SIGNET.
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 SIGNET'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 SIGNET
✨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 SIGNET.
✨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 SIGNET 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 SIGNET 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.
