Job Title: ETF Change Lead
Location: London
Salary/Rate: £700-800 per day
Start Date: 02/02/25
Job Type: 12 Month Contract Outside IR35

Company Introduction
We have an exciting opportunity now available with one of our sector-leading consultancy clients! They are currently looking for a skilled and experienced Change Lead to spearhead the development and implementation of an effective operating model for Exchange-Traded Funds (ETFs) within our Asset Services division.

Job Responsibilities/Objectives
You will be responsible for leading expertise in ETF-related processes, operational transformations, and project management in the asset management or financial services space.

1. Change Leadership & Strategy:
o Lead the design, implementation, and continuous improvement of the ETF operating model.
o Define and execute the strategic roadmap for ETF builds, with a focus on asset servicing, process efficiency, and scalability.
o Drive cross-functional change initiatives, ensuring alignment with overall business objectives.
o Provide thought leadership and subject matter expertise to internal stakeholders, including senior management.
2. Project & Stakeholder Management:
o Manage the delivery of change programs related to ETF builds and operating model improvements.
o Ensure successful project execution, managing scope, timelines, budgets, and resources effectively.
o Collaborate closely with stakeholders across business units (eg, product management, risk, compliance, operations, technology).
o Foster strong relationships with key stakeholders to ensure alignment and buy-in for change initiatives.
3. Process Optimization & Risk Management:
o Identify areas for process improvement and operational inefficiencies within the ETF life cycle.
o Propose, develop, and implement solutions to enhance productivity, mitigate risk, and ensure regulatory compliance.
o Monitor, evaluate, and report on the effectiveness of changes, adjusting plans as necessary to meet evolving business needs.
4. ETF Knowledge & Expertise:
o Leverage deep knowledge of ETF structures, asset servicing, and operations to guide the development of an efficient ETF operating model.
o Stay up to date with industry trends, regulatory changes, and emerging technologies affecting the ETF space.
o Provide technical expertise and strategic insights on ETF builds and associated operational challenges.
5. Training & Change Management:
o Lead change management activities, ensuring effective communication, training, and transition strategies for employees impacted by the ETF operating model.
o Develop and execute training programs to upskill employees in ETF processes and systems.
o Act as a key point of contact for resolving queries and guiding teams through operational changes.

Required Skills/Experience
The ideal candidate will have the following:

* Education: Bachelor's degree in Finance, Business, Economics, or a related field. An advanced degree (MBA, Master's in Finance) or professional certifications (eg, CFA, FRM) is highly desirable.
* Experience:
o 7-10 years of commercial experience in financial services, asset management, or a related field, with a focus on ETF operations and servicing.
o Proven experience in leading change management initiatives and process optimization projects.
o Expertise in the development and execution of operating models for ETFs.
o In-depth understanding of ETF structures, trading, and operational flows, including settlement, reconciliation, and regulatory compliance.
o Experience working with cross-functional teams and managing complex projects.
* Skills:
o Strong project management and leadership skills.
o Excellent communication, presentation, and interpersonal skills.
o Ability to analyze complex problems, develop actionable solutions, and implement change effectively.
o Deep knowledge of asset servicing, regulatory frameworks, and financial markets.
o Proficiency with relevant financial tools, systems, and technologies (eg, Bloomberg, Aladdin, etc.).

Desirable Skills/Experience
Although not essential, the following skills are desired by the client:

* Expertise in ETF trading, structuring, and liquidity management.
* Experience with regulatory bodies and compliance requirements related to ETFs (eg, SEC, UCITS, MiFID).
* Familiarity with technology platforms and digital solutions supporting ETF operations.

If you are interested in this opportunity, please apply now with your updated CV in Microsoft Word/PDF format.

Disclaimer
Notwithstanding any guidelines given to level of experience sought, we will consider candidates from outside this range if they can demonstrate the necessary competencies.

Square One is acting as both an employment agency and an employment business, and is an equal opportunities recruitment business. Square One embraces diversity and will treat everyone equally. Please see our website for our full diversity statement.