Operations Specialist (Contract for… at EC Markets… · City of…

Operations Specialist (Financial Services)

The Operations Specialist is responsible for the accurate and timely execution of core operational processes across multiple markets and financial instruments. This role focuses on day-to-day processing, reconciliations, issue resolution, and control adherence to ensure the integrity of client positions, cash movements, and operational data. The Operations Specialist plays a key role in safeguarding client assets, supporting operational stability, and reducing operational risk.

Key Responsibilities

Operational Processing

• Execute daily operational workflows covering securities, cash, and related post-trade activities.
• Process lifecycle events and operational adjustments in line with established procedures and service levels.
• Validate and action data received from custodians, brokers, vendors, and internal systems.
• Ensure client accounts and internal records accurately reflect operational activity.

Reconciliations & Break Resolution

• Perform daily reconciliations of cash, positions, and balances against custodians, counterparties, and internal systems.
• Investigate, resolve, and document reconciliation breaks within agreed timeframes.
• Escalate unresolved, aged, or high-risk breaks in accordance with operational escalation procedures.
• Maintain accurate records and audit trails of issues and resolutions.

Risk & Controls

• Adhere to operational controls, policies, and procedures.
• Identify processing errors, control weaknesses, and recurring issues.
• Support the implementation of corrective actions to reduce operational risk.
• Assist with internal and external audits by providing accurate data and operational evidence.

Stakeholder & Vendor Interaction

• Liaise with custodians, brokers, vendors, and internal teams to resolve operational and reconciliation issues.
• Provide clear and timely updates to stakeholders on outstanding items and operational incidents.
• Act as a point of contact for operational queries within the wider business.

Continuous Improvement & Support

• Contribute to process reviews and operational enhancements.
• Assist in documenting procedures, workflows, and desk-level instructions.
• Support training and knowledge sharing within the operations team.
• Participate in user acceptance testing (UAT) for system changes and enhancements.

Skills & Experience

Essential

• Proven experience in an operations role within CFD industry.
• SQL or Python knowledge.
• Strong hands-on experience with cash and stock reconciliations.
• High attention to detail with a strong control-focused mindset.
• Ability to investigate and resolve operational issues efficiently.
• Working knowledge of financial instruments (equities, bonds, funds).
• Proficiency in MS Excel and operational/reconciliation systems.

Desirable

• Experience supporting multiple markets and asset classes.
• Familiarity with post-trade or middle-office operations.
• Knowledge of SWIFT messaging, custodian platforms, and market data providers.
• Exposure to operational risk, controls, and audit environments.

Personal Attributes

• Highly organized with a disciplined, process-driven approach.
• Reliable and accountable, with strong ownership of tasks and outcomes.
• Clear communicator, able to explain operational issues to both technical and non-technical stakeholders.
• Comfortable working under pressure in a deadline-driven environment.
• Team-oriented, collaborative, and proactive in supporting colleagues.