Operations Associate

Operations Associate

Full-Time 31500 - 38500 £ / year (est.) Home office (partial)
S

At a Glance

  • Tasks: Support investment operations, manage data, and improve processes using technology.
  • Company: Dynamic London-based private investment office with a collaborative culture.
  • Benefits: Gain hands-on experience in a growing team with opportunities for professional development.
  • Other info: Perfect for recent graduates or those with up to two years of experience.
  • Why this job: Join a small, entrepreneurial team and make a real impact on operational efficiency.
  • Qualifications: Strong academic background, analytical skills, and proficiency with AI tools.

The predicted salary is between 31500 - 38500 £ per year.

My client is a London based independent private investment office who are looking to add an Operations Associate to their existing operations team as they continue to grow. The role spans investment operations, portfolio and reporting systems, trade support, private-market administration, data management and operational controls - a broad, hands-on position for someone early in their operations career.

The successful candidate will work closely with both the investment and operations teams, gaining exposure to a wide range of asset classes, investment managers, custodians and technology platforms. This is not a direct investment role, but the individual will develop a strong understanding of investment portfolios and the operational processes that support them. The firm is a small, entrepreneurial team that is continually looking to improve its processes through technology and automation, and is particularly interested in candidates who have actively used AI tools to improve processes, analyse information or build practical tools.

Key Responsibilities:

  • Support day-to-day investment operations of client portfolios, including trade processing, fund subscriptions, capital calls and distributions.
  • Perform regular reconciliations of transactions, valuations and cash movements, investigating and resolving discrepancies.
  • Liaise with custodians, investment managers, administrators and other third parties to resolve operational queries.
  • Maintain accurate portfolio, transaction, pricing and investment data across internal systems and reporting platforms.
  • Collect and maintain investment manager information, including NAVs, performance estimates, statements and tax documentation.
  • Support client reporting and fee calculations as part of ongoing operational requirements.
  • Assist with operational controls, regulatory reporting and the maintenance of accurate documentation, including policies, procedures and control checklists.
  • Support client onboarding and KYC processes.
  • Contribute to the ongoing improvement and automation of operational processes, including identifying opportunities to use technology and AI to improve efficiency, accuracy and scalability.
  • Any other tasks and responsibilities deemed relevant and appropriate by the operations team.

Qualifications and Experience:

  • A strong academic background and degree from a leading university, with a minimum 2:1 or equivalent.
  • Suitable for a high-calibre graduate or an individual with up to two years of relevant professional experience.
  • Strong numerical and analytical ability, with excellent attention to detail when working with financial and investment data.
  • Strong problem-solving skills and an ability to investigate discrepancies logically and independently.
  • Demonstrable proficiency with AI tools and an interest in applying AI and automation to real-world business processes.
  • Excellent Excel skills and confidence working with data.
  • Strong written and verbal communication skills.
  • A proactive mentality, willing to take ownership of tasks and prioritise effectively in a fast-paced environment.
  • A collaborative approach and willingness to work across investment, operations and technology-related projects within a small team.

Operations Associate employer: Stephenson Executive Search

Join a dynamic private investment office in London, where you will have the unique opportunity to work closely with a successful entrepreneur and contribute to impactful investment decisions. Our collaborative work culture fosters innovation and growth, providing you with the chance to enhance your skills in US equities while engaging with industry experts. With a focus on employee development and a commitment to excellence, this role offers a rewarding path for those looking to make a significant mark in the investment landscape.

S

Contact Details:

Stephenson Executive Search Recruitment Team

StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫

We think this is how you could land Operations Associate

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 Stephenson Executive Search. 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 Associate

Investment Operations
Trade Processing
Reconciliation
Data Management
Reporting
Operational Controls
Regulatory Reporting

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 Stephenson Executive Search.

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 Stephenson Executive Search'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 Stephenson Executive Search

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 Stephenson Executive Search.

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 Stephenson Executive Search 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 Stephenson Executive Search 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.