Finance Operations Director

SUMMARY:
Build the operational backbone of a fast-scaling investment firm
An ambitious, mission‑driven investment management business is looking for a Finance Operations Director to take full ownership of its operational engine at a critical growth phase.
This is a senior, hands-on leadership role for someone who thrives in complex, regulated environments and wants to build something properly from the ground up. You’ll step in at a pivotal moment as client money operations are brought in-house, with full ownership of end‑to‑end investment operations and regulatory processes.
If you’re a operator at heart - someone who gets into the detail, fixes problems, and builds scalable systems - this role offers real scope, responsibility, and long-term impact.

POSITION INFO:

What you’ll be responsible for:
Investment & Client Money Operations
Own the full lifecycle of client investments, from inflow to deployment, administration, reporting, distributions, and exits
Ensure accurate execution of investments, liquidations, fees, and scheduled payments across multiple asset classes
Maintain a clear view of the investment pipeline and accountability for successful deployment
Controls, Risk & Regulatory Operations
Take day‑to‑day ownership of client money processes, including reconciliations, exception management, and audit trails
Design and maintain a robust operational control framework
Act as the key operational contact for auditors and regulatory stakeholders
Work closely with Compliance and Finance leadership to ensure regulatory alignment
Scale, Systems & Infrastructure
Build and document operational playbooks that are clear, auditable, and scalable
Identify bottlenecks and lead improvements in systems, tools, and workflows
Partner with engineering teams on internal platforms and new product launches
Use technology and AI tooling thoughtfully to improve accuracy and efficiency
Leadership
Lead and develop a small but critical finance operations team
Set standards, manage SLAs, and build capability as the business grows
Be a trusted partner to senior leadership, contributing to strategic decisions

Skills & Experience:
Proven experience in regulated financial services, asset management, or similar environments
Strong operational, audit, or control‑focused background
Experience building and scaling processes - not just running them
Exceptionally detail‑oriented, commercially aware, and resilient under pressure
Comfortable operating across global teams and different working cultures
Low‑ego, direct communicator with a proactive, ownership mindset
Tech‑literate and curious, with a practical approach to automation and AI

Personal Attributes
Deep respect for stewardship of investor capital and operational integrity
High attention to detail and disciplined approach to controls and governance
Ability to operate calmly and credibly at senior level
Values‑driven, humble and collaborative leadership style
Appreciation for faith‑aligned or ethical financial services environments
Location & Working Model
Hybrid role based in Cape Town
Regular interaction with colleagues in the UK and Middle East

Qualification:
Qualified Chartered Accountant (CA(SA), ACA or equivalent), ideally with Big 4 training or a strong consulting background with financial services exposure

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