Head of Fund Services, Wealth Management, London (12mo FTC)

Our client, a wealth management business, is seeking a Head of Fund Services within the ACD operations. The successful candidate will hold SMF 3 function, and drive strategic direction across fund services and investment operations, playing a central role in shaping business strategy and risk frameworks. This senior leadership board-level position requires someone who can navigate complex regulatory environments while leading a high-performing team and ensuring the delivery of optimal client outcomes.

Key Responsibilities

• Lead as Executive Director (SMF 3), ensuring regulatory compliance and strategic oversight
• Direct all product governance activities including reviews, value assessments, and consumer duty obligations
• Oversee new product launches, fund closures, and corporate projects
• Establish and maintain comprehensive investment risk management frameworks with clear escalation procedures
• Monitor investment performance metrics, regulatory compliance limits, and trading activities across all funds (UCITS and NURS)
• Hold responsibility for CASS oversight and money handling under SMCR, designing and implementing governance structures
• Oversee day-to-day fund operations including fund accounting, valuations and NAV calculations, settlement and trade processing, and record management
• Manage relationships with external service providers ensuring service quality and contractual compliance
• Champion transformation initiatives across operations and technology platforms

Requirements

• Board level senior leadership experience with 15+ years in asset management, fund administration, or related ACD functions
• Proven track record as SMF 3 or equivalent senior management function within FCA-regulated environment
• Previous CASS oversight experience with prescribed responsibility (PRz)
• Board-level experience with demonstrated success in strategic planning and corporate governance
• Strong technical knowledge of investment products, operational processes, and UK regulatory landscape
• Strong people leadership ability
• Commercial mindset combined with analytical rigor and sound decision-making capabilities