Strategy & Operations Executive (Platform Operations) recruitment

Role Context

The Strategy and Operations area will operate a pool of resource which will provide the following functions for the UK Wholesale area (Platform Operations, Business Planning, Operational Support to Sales). Each member of the team will have an area of specialism however they will have a working knowledge of all aspects covered within the team allowing flexibility of resource to cover for peaks in workflow and absence. The ability to provide cover will be enhanced by the development of a Knowledge database.

Role Purpose

The role holder will provide operational support to the Platform Relationship Manager. (PRM).  To provide a comprehensive centre of expertise on the operational requirements of our Platform distributors.

A key objective of the role will be to work closely with the PRM replacing him as the primary contact for day to day operational issues (questions regarding deals, distributions, fund launches, RDR impact etc)

Develop an in depth operational knowledge of each Platform, build and maintain a database on each Platform which will include:

• Platform Structure and internal relationships (Multi Manager arm, Insured etc)
• Develop an in depth knowledge of the operational requirements of individual clients.
• Ensure accurate Terms in place across each division together with a rationale
• History of any operational issues
• Legal Agreements
• Key contacts

Work with the Platforms to identify improvements to operating practices (feeds on distributions, prices, reconciliations, corporate actions)

Standard Life

Standard Life is a key distributor of SLI funds via their insured products and their platforms (Fundzone, Sigma). The Strategy and Operations area will work to develop our operational ties with this area providing a single point of contact and building on existing structures. Many of the tasks are similar to 3rd party platforms however additional understanding of charges / revenue is required.

Core Outcomes

• To keep up to date with market developments, internally or externally, which could impact on how we interact with platforms thereby ensuring we can effectively meet their operational requirements
• To deliver an effective customer experience to the platform distribution channel in their operational dealings with SLI
• To provide excellent operational support to the Platform Relationship Manager
• Develop relationships with key operational contacts
• Create an effective database of the key elements of the platform relationship
• Understand the structure and language used in SLA documents to ensure these are aligned to SLI operational model
• To liaise with key contacts, externally and internally to ensure all information presented is reliable and accurate
• To proactively build and develop productive working relationships with all customers
• To work effectively as part of the Strategy and Operations team providing input to the overall objectives of the area
• To keep abreast of best practice in the industry and investigate sources of ‘new' information which will add value to the business.
• To build and support communication channels between SLI and Standard Life.

Core Knowledge

• Platform industry knowledge e.g. understanding of the key players and their operating models
• In Depth knowledge of the SLI systems, procedures and culture
• Knowledge of the range of distribution channels including specialist, IFA and Direct sales and key contacts internally
• Importance of the accuracy and timeliness of information which supports the distribution function
• Key knowledge of business planning

Core Skills

• Methods of organising, interpreting and presenting information including reports and presentations
• Research and investigation skills
• PC skills – Excel/Powerpoint, Micropal Charts/Workstation/TAP, Datastream – Please note that experience of Excel would be an advantage. Training will be provided on the other packages.
• Problem Solving – spots trends in data and can interpret statistics
• Strong numerical skills

Typical Qualifications / Experience

• Financial services / Platform experience preferred

This is not an FSA regulated role

Closing date for this role is 20 July 2012