Manager Technology and Product Solutions (Operational Efficiency)

As the Manager – Business Efficiency, you will be responsible for supporting the Catalyst management and operations teams in executing the firm’s automation strategy. You will report to the Director – Business Efficiency. You will play a critical role in the creation, design, development, and implementation of automation systems that drive business efficiencies. The position requires you to manage automation programs, support the maintenance of automation platforms such as Xceptor/Azure, and lead a team of developers working on the development, testing, and deployment of automated solutions. You will collaborate with various teams across the organization to ensure the effective integration and execution of automated processes that align with the Catalyst business model.

Required Skills & Experience:

• Bachelor’s degree in Finance, Mathematics, Computer Science, Accounting, Engineering, or a related field.


• A minimum of 7-10 years of professional experience in the Fund Administration industry or similar financial services environment. Strong focus on business efficiency, process automation, and data management.


• Advanced knowledge of Microsoft Azure (security, architecture, and data management)


• Experience with AI tools for programming (Github Copilot, Replit, Claude, etc)


• Advanced knowledge of Xceptor or similar automation tools (e.g., RPA, UIPath, Automation Anywhere).


• Expertise in portfolio accounting systems (e.g., Advent Geneva), data management systems, and integration tools.


• Solid understanding of OMS/PMS, data warehouse integration, and FTP processes.


• Knowledge of financial data management, including trade positions, pricing, static data, and corporate actions.


• Problem-Solving: Proven ability to resolve complex system and data issues, ensuring the accuracy of valuations and seamless integration of systems.


• Demonstrated experience managing large and complex projects, especially in an automation or process improvement context. Strong organizational skills and the ability to deliver projects on time and within budget.


• Familiarity with SOC audits and regulatory compliance for portfolio management systems and data management.


• RPA Tools: Experience working with or managing teams using Robotic Process Automation software (e.g., Automation Anywhere, UIPath).


• Strong knowledge of various asset types, including listed and OTC derivatives, and their impact on fund operations.


• Intermediate to advanced knowledge of SQL and experience with database management.


• Familiarity with VBA, Python, or other coding languages used for automation is a plus.


• Strong leadership skills with experience in managing and developing high-performing teams.


• Ability to liaise directly with clients to gather requirements and deliver customized solutions.

From a high-level perspective, the core responsibilities that form your role are broken down into the following 7
categories:

1. 
   Automation Strategy and Implementation


2. 
   Management of Automation Platforms


3. 
   Supervision of Automation Development Team


4. 
   Automation Integration and Data Management


5. 
   Continuous Improvement and Problem Solving


6. 
   Collaboration and Strategic Contribution


7. 
   Operations Risk and Compliance Responsibilities

The following are the tasks linked to the Core Responsibilities that will be expected as part of this role:  

1) Automation Strategy and Implementation:

Includes (but not limited to) the following tasks:

a) Support the design and delivery of Catalyst’s overall automation strategy by developing automated solutions and ensuring they align with the business objectives and operational goals.

b) Process Automation: Identify key operational processes and functions that can benefit from automation and lead the implementation of RPA (Robotic Process Automation) solutions to streamline workflows and enhance efficiency.

c) End-to-End Delivery: Lead the planning, design, development, and execution of automation programs. Manage the deployment of automation technologies and solutions within defined timelines and budget, ensuring they deliver measurable business benefits.

d) Stakeholder Collaboration: Work closely with senior stakeholders, including the Director of Business Efficiency, business leaders, and project teams, to ensure alignment on automation initiatives. Support the development of new business solutions that leverage automation.

2. Management of Automation Platforms:

Includes (but are not limited to) the following tasks:

a) Xceptor Data Hub/Azure Maintenance: Take responsibility for building, maintaining, and managing the organization’s data/reconciliation hub, ensuring that all related systems and applications are fully functional and aligned with operational requirements.

b) Application Support & Upgrades: Oversee the support, maintenance, and upgrades of the Xceptor/Azure application. Coordinate with the development team to ensure new features are implemented and existing features are upgraded in a timely manner.

c) Configuration & Customization: Support the configuration of Xceptor/Azure to integrate new automation features and ensure it remains aligned with evolving business needs and processes.

d) System Health & Monitoring: Ensure the health and stability of the Xceptor/Azure application and related systems, performing proactive monitoring and troubleshooting to minimize downtime or service disruptions.

3. Supervision of Automation Development Team:

Includes (but are not limited to) the following tasks:

a) Oversee a team of developers who are responsible for the development, testing, and deployment of automation solutions. Guide them in the execution of automation projects and ensure adherence to best practices.

b) Training & Development: Support the creation of training programs for internal teams on the use of Xceptor and other automation tools. Ensure that team members and relevant business staff are properly trained in automation processes and technologies.

c) Performance Management: Provide ongoing feedback, mentorship, and performance evaluations for team members. Foster a collaborative, results-driven environment focused on delivering high-quality solutions.

4. Automation Integration and Data Management:

Includes (but are not limited to) the following tasks:

a) Bulk Data Management: Work with the team to automate and optimize the management of bulk data for trade positions, pricing, static data, and corporate actions. Ensure the seamless integration of data into portfolio management systems.

b) System Integration: Oversee the integration of automation solutions with other core business systems, such as OMS (Order Management Systems), PMS (Portfolio Management Systems), and data warehouses. Ensure the smooth transfer and synchronization of data across platforms.

c) Audit & Compliance: Support the execution of SOC (System and Organization Controls) audits for portfolio management and data management systems to ensure compliance with relevant industry standards and regulations.

d) Corporate Actions: Assist with the automation of corporate actions, from booking to support and advisory, ensuring all automated solutions meet regulatory and internal policy requirements.

5. Continuous Improvement and Problem Solving:

Includes (but not limited to) the following tasks:

a) Issue Resolution: Take ownership of resolving complex system-based queries that impact the accuracy of position and P&L valuations. Work with cross-functional teams to troubleshoot and resolve issues in a timely manner.

b) Process Improvement: Continuously seek opportunities for process optimization and automation across various operational areas. Encourage a culture of continuous improvement by identifying inefficiencies and recommending solutions.

c) Business Insights: Work closely with operations teams, business users, and project managers to share insights and drive the development of new automation solutions that will create business efficiencies and enhance client service.

6. Collaboration and Strategic Contribution:

Includes (but not limited to) the following tasks:

a) Cross-Functional Collaboration: Work alongside other departments such as Client Services, Compliance, and IT to ensure the integration and smooth implementation of automation systems. Ensure that automation initiatives meet business requirements and contribute to overall organizational goals.

b) Client-Focused Solutions: Interact with clients when needed to understand their requirements and ensure that automation solutions are tailored to meet their specific needs. Provide support in implementing automation processes that improve service delivery and operational performance.

c) Strategic Guidance: Contribute to the long-term roadmap for automation solutions, helping shape future strategies based on emerging technologies and business needs.

7. Risk and Compliance Responsibilities:

Includes (but not limited to) the following tasks:

a) Policy Implementation: Help implement compliance policies at the operational level.

b) Monitoring Tools: Utilize tools to monitor compliance with internal controls and regulatory requirements.

c) Compliance Culture - Working in tandem with the groups Head of Compliance and Governance to instill a culture that is centered around good governance and compliance.

d) Reporting: Assist in preparing compliance reports for management review.

e) Issue Tracking: Track and manage compliance-related issues and follow up on resolutions.

f) Communication: Communicate compliance requirements effectively within the team.

Additional Strategic Expectations

• Share insights to enable development of new processes and procedures that will create business efficiency and support delivery of client excellence in service.


• Maintain awareness of industry, regulatory, jurisdictional, and other trends that could affect the business.


• Contribute to the creation, development and implementation of new products and solutions to accommodate the businesses continuous changing needs.


• Collaborate cross-functionally with operations staff, business users, project, and implementation managers to achieve desired and elegant solutions.