Manager, Operations

Job Description

The Operations Manager leads an assigned back-office operations function within the asset services and account maintenance areas. This role ensures that client accounts and assets are processed accurately, on time, and in compliance with firm policies and FINRA, SEC, and other regulatory requirements. The Operations Manager manages risk and controls, serves as an escalation point for internal business partners, and drives process improvement and operational efficiency.

Responsibilities

• Manage the daily operations of an assigned back-office function. Responsibilities may include one or more of the following areas:
  • Asset and Account Services - functions such as corporate actions, dividend and income processing, tax reporting and cost basis, retirement operations, receipts and disbursements, mutual fund operations, asset transfers, and other related asset servicing areas
  • Account Maintenance - new account setup and documentation review, registration and title changes, account restrictions, account closures, and deceased account processing
• Supervise, train, and develop operations staff. Manage workflow, staffing coverage, and productivity so that all processing is accurate and timely.
• Monitor and resolve exceptions, breaks, suspense items, and aged items. Reconcile positions and activity with DTC, transfer agents, custodians, and other counterparties.
• Ensure compliance with firm policies and FINRA, SEC, IRS, and other regulatory requirements. Maintain written supervisory procedures, controls, and audit-ready documentation.
• Serve as an escalation point for financial advisors, branch offices, and internal business partners. Resolve complex issues quickly and professionally.
• Support internal audits, regulatory examinations, and risk reviews. Identify control gaps and carry out corrective actions.
• Find opportunities for process improvement and automation. Partner with technology, vendors, and other operations teams on system enhancements, testing, and conversions.
• Develop and report key metrics, volumes, and risk indicators to senior management.

Qualifications

• Bachelor's degree preferred or equivalent industry experience.
• 3 - 5 years of broker-dealer or clearing firm back-office operations experience
• Strong knowledge of back-office brokerage operations in one or more areas such as corporate actions, income processing, asset transfers, or account maintenance. Familiarity with DTCC, transfer agents, and back-office systems.
• Previous team lead/supervisory experience
• Ability to work in a fast-paced environment while maintaining accurate, complete, and high quality work
• Ability to interact with employees at all levels of the organization.
• Self-motivated team player and individual contributor.
• Ability to take initiative and work independently.
• Strong organizational skills.
• Strong decision-making ability.
• The ability to work effectively in a fast-paced, demanding environment.
• Strong PC skills including knowledge of MS Office Products and Internet preferred.
• FINRA Series 99 preferred or required within a designated timeframe. Series 7 or 24 a plus.

About the Team

The Operations department's work is vital to the functionality and success of HilltopSecurities. The department provides back-office support and service for the entire firm. With well over 100 employees ranging from specialists to senior managers, each individual plays a specific role in the overarching operation of the company. Operations' areas of focus include clearance, settlement, unit investment trusts, government and mortgage-backed securities, money market instruments, and OTC derivates. Our Operations professionals also manage transactions between mutual funds and insurance carriers and their respective investors. As a part of Operations, you are expected to provide high quality customer service, doing your best to make sure our clients succeed, and keeping their best interests as your highest priority. We value all of our team members, and your commitment to our firm will have a significant impact on the way we operate. We encourage all Operations employees to obtain FINRA licenses and support them in this endeavor. We also provide additional professional development resources to help advance our team members' careers. In the Operations department, you will be surrounded by people who are passionate about HilltopSecurities and upholding our reputation as a leading municipal investment bank.