Head of RIA Operations

A newly launched independent Registered Investment Advisory (RIA) firm serving high-net-worth and ultra-high-net-worth clients is seeking an experienced wealth management professional to help establish the operational foundation, advisor transition processes, and infrastructure necessary to support long-term growth. This is a unique opportunity to join a firm in its early stages and work directly with ownership to help scale an advisory business from the ground up. Position Overview A senior wealth management professional with experience leading, building, or operating within an RIA environment. The ideal candidate has experience overseeing operations, supporting advisor transitions, managing custodial relationships, onboarding assets, establishing workflows, and helping grow an advisory platform. This individual will serve as a key strategic and operational partner to firm leadership while helping create a scalable infrastructure for future advisor and client growth. This role may be a strong fit for a former RIA executive, COO, Head of RIA Operations, Practice Manager, or experienced financial advisor who has participated in firm growth initiatives, advisor recruiting, or platform development. Key Responsibilities Partner with ownership to help execute the firm's strategic growth initiatives. Lead operational development and infrastructure buildout for the RIA platform. Manage advisor transition and onboarding processes, including asset movement and account transfers. Oversee custodial relationships and operational vendor partnerships. Develop scalable workflows and procedures across client onboarding, account administration, and service operations. Help establish best practices for compliance, operations, and client experience. Coordinate with advisors, custodians, compliance consultants, attorneys, and third-party vendors. Assist with recruiting and integration of future advisors and support staff. Identify operational efficiencies and opportunities to improve scalability. Support ongoing growth initiatives involving new client assets and advisory teams. Required Qualifications 5-10+ years of experience within an RIA, wealth management firm, family office, broker‑dealer, or hybrid advisory platform. Experience helping build, scale, manage, or operate an RIA. Demonstrated experience transitioning assets, onboarding advisors, or supporting advisory team growth. Strong understanding of advisory operations, custodial platforms, account administration, and client service workflows. Experience working directly with firm leadership on business growth initiatives. Strong project management, leadership, and organizational skills. Entrepreneurial mindset and willingness to operate in a growing environment. Preferred Qualifications Previous experience serving as a COO, Director of Operations, Practice Manager, or senior leader within a wealth management firm. Experience with Schwab, Fidelity, Pershing, or other custodial platforms. Familiarity with SEC-registered RIA operations and compliance processes. Existing network within the independent advisor or RIA space #J-18808-Ljbffr Royal Search Group