Operations Manager (Greater Chicago Area)

We are seeking an Operations Manager responsible for overseeing the daily operational functions of Zacks Investment Management back office. This includes ensuring efficient workflows, regulatory compliance, client service support and accurate processing of administrative activities. This role manages a team of operations associates, coordinates with custodians and third-party vendors, supports advisors, and drives continuous improvement in operational processes.

The ideal candidate should be organized, detail-oriented, and proactive.

Key Responsibilities

Operations Management

• Oversee the day-to-day back-office operations of the firm.
• Develop, implement, and maintain operational policies and procedures.
• Ensure efficient processing of new account openings, account maintenance, transfers, money movements, and client documentation.
• Monitor operational workflows to ensure accuracy, timeliness, and consistency.
• Identify opportunities to improve efficiency through process improvements and technology.
• Coordinate with custodians on escalated issues and general items.
• Ensure operational adherence to compliance requirements.

Client Service Operations

• Supervise operational support for financial advisors and operations associates.
• Ensure timely resolution of operational issues affecting clients.
• Maintain high service standards while supporting a positive client experience.
• Coordinate onboarding and account servicing activities.

Technology and Systems Administration

• Oversee daily operation of portfolio management software and internal systems.
• Assist with coordination of system upgrades, integrations, and testing.
• Ensure data integrity across operational platforms.
• Train staff on operational systems and procedures.

Team Leadership

• Assist in hiring, training and supervising back-office personnel.
• Establish performance expectations and accountability measures.
• Foster a collaborative, client-focused culture.
• Provide coaching and professional development opportunities.

Qualifications

Required

• Bachelor's degree in Business, Finance, Accounting, or related field.
• 5–10 years of operations experience within a Registered Investment Advisor, broker-dealer, wealth management firm, or financial institution.
• 3+ years of management or supervisory experience.
• Strong understanding of RIA operations, custodial platforms, and investment operations.
• Knowledge of SEC and state regulatory requirements applicable to RIAs.
• Excellent organizational, communication, and leadership skills.

Preferred

• Experience with custodians such as Charles Schwab, Fidelity, Pershing, etc
• Experience with portfolio management systems such as Orion, Tamarac, Addepar, Black Diamond, or Envestnet.
• Familiarity with CRM systems such as Salesforce or Redtail.
• FINRA Series 65 or other industry certifications are a plus.

Core Competencies

• Leadership and team development
• Operational excellence
• Regulatory awareness
• Process improvement
• Problem solving
• Project management
• Attention to detail
• Client service orientation
• Technology proficiency

Performance Measures

• Operational accuracy and error rates
• Timeliness of account processing
• Client satisfaction
• Workflow efficiency improvements
• Employee development and retention

Working Conditions

This position is hybrid but in office a larger portion of the time. There are periods of high activity such as seasonal volume, regulatory examinations, or technology implementations.

A generous compensation package will be offered to the right candidate. Let's make sure it's a good fit first.