If you are interested in this candidate, please contact Charlie Watson via email cwatson@cerfinancial.co.uk or call on 0207 626 6065.

00272765

PROFILE:

Director of Investment Operations and SMF3 function holder with over 30 years of experience leading global investment operations, fund administration, and transformation initiatives within banking, wealth management, and asset management environments. Expert in CASS compliance, outsourcing governance, fund accounting, and operational risk frameworks. Proven record of deRining and implementing Target Operating Models (TOMs), achieving cost efRiciencies, and delivering large-scale regulatory and IT change programmes including MiFID II and Consumer Duty. Recognised for leadership in developing high- performing teams, enhancing client service delivery, and improving process efRiciency through automation and innovation. Key contact for FCA and and external auditors and internal auditors via audit committees. I lead the strategic planning component of fund accounting operations for large, complex clients, partnering with senior stakeholders to align accounting delivery with broader business objectives. This includes evaluating and implementing technology solutions to enhance scalability, control, and reporting accuracy, while overseeing operational frameworks at a senior level to support growth, regulatory compliance, and service excellence.

SKILLS:

• Investment Operations & Fund Administration
• CASS & Client Money Governance
• Operational Risk & Control Frameworks
• Target Operating Model (TOM) Implementation
• Full knowledge of Fund Accounting & Financial Reporting, including complex securities
• Regulatory Compliance (MiFID II, SMCR, Consumer Duty)
• Vendor & Outsourcing Management (SLAs / KPIs)
• Process Automation & Operational EfRiciency
• Change & Project Management
• Budgeting & Strategic Cost Optimisation
• M&A Integration & Client Migration
• Leadership, Mentoring & Talent Development
• Full understanding of Telephony systems and contact centre processes.

ACHIEVEMENTS:

• Delivered annual cost savings exceeding £500k through vendor renegotiations and outsourcing optimisation.
• Led global outsourcing projects, ensuring smooth transition of operational functions across jurisdictions.
• Have implemented new back ofRice systems and trading platforms from the RFP stage to full design, UAT testing and implementation, eliminating manual processes and fully automating the process. This has resulted in a reduction of over 40% in errors
• Lead on large, major client acquisitions, providing guidance and expertise from initial walkthroughs to testing and implementation.
• Chaired governance committees (CASS, AML, Risk, and Fund Governance), ensuring regulatory compliance.
• Directed implementation of MiFID II and Consumer Duty frameworks across operational divisions. Implementation of accelerated settlement process to T+1 in US and Canada
• Redesigned Operational Risk Management Framework improving audit performance and control assurance.

CAREER HISTORY:

August 2024 – November 2025

Private Bank

Director of Global Operations

• Lead UK Operations across London and Birmingham, managing 100+ staff and aligning UK processes with global strategy.
• DeRined and implemented a uniRied operations strategy driving process standardisation and outsourcing efRiciency.
• Managed operational budgets and FTE allocations, delivering measurable cost reductions and service enhancements.
• Oversaw intra-group outsourcing governance and ensured adherence to SLA/KPI performance and risk controls.
• Supported audit engagements (internal/external/ISAE3402) ensuring timely closure of Rindings.

June 2021 – March 2024

Asset Manager

Director of Fund Administration/ Executive Director (SMF3)

Board member and SMF3 function holder with oversight of CASS and operational governance.

Directed Fund Accounting, Transfer Agency, and Client Money teams ensuring adherence to regulatory standards.

• Full fund life cycle process including NAV pricing, fund valuations and fund drawdown
• Expert knowledge of unit pricing, within UCITs, Unit Trust and Mutual Funds. Excellent knowledge of global securities and the pricing of these
• Chaired CASS Committee; active member of Risk, AML, and Fund Governance Committees.
• Delivered automation initiatives improving process efRiciency and service quality.
• Led Consumer Duty implementation, embedding oversight mechanisms and reporting standards.
• Led contact centre, dealing with general client queries, client reporting requests and complaint processing. Strong understanding of Telephony systems and how these interact with IT systems.

Nov 2018 – May 2020

Asset Manager

Head of Client Operations

• Managed client operations, reporting, reconciliations, and onboarding processes across multiple divisions.
• Negotiated contract renewals achieving £500k+ savings while improving service standards.
• Led redesign of client reporting systems enhancing data accuracy and user experience.

Apr 2013 – Jul 2017

Investment/ Wealth manager

Head of Middle Office

• Led middle ofRice operations of 25+ staff overseeing reconciliations, fees, and client services.
• Delivered annual savings of £350k–£500k through operational streamlining of contract note processes.
• Managed integration of Jupiter Asset Management and Deutsche Bank client portfolios.

EDUCATION:

• CMI Level 5 Diploma in Management & Leadership (QCF) – Pass
• IAQ CertiRicates – Introduction to Securities & Investments, Regulatory Environment, Private Client Administration
• Six Sigma Green Belt – Credit
• GNVQ Business & Finance – Distinction, Liverpool Community College
• 9 GCSEs including Mathematics & English – West Derby Comprehensive

ADDITIONAL INFORMATION:

• Member of the Chartered Institute for Securities & Investment (ACSI).
• Strong understanding of SMCR, CASS, MiFID II, AML/KYC, and Operational Resilience requirements.
• Experienced in managing vendor oversight, fund administration systems, and custody platforms.

INTERESTS:

• Coaching youth football, boxing, American football, golf, travel, and reading.

References Available Upon Request

If you are interested in this candidate, please contact Charlie Watson via email cwatson@cerfinancial.co.uk or call on 0207 626 6065.

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