Securities Operations Associate

Securities Operations Associate

Position Overview

A leading financial services firm is seeking a detail-oriented and analytical Securities Operations Associate to support the accurate and timely processing, verification, and reconciliation of securities transactions and asset movements. The ideal candidate will have a foundational understanding of securities operations, strong problem-solving skills, and the ability to manage a high volume of transactions in a fast-paced environment. This individual will work closely with internal teams, custodians, and transfer agents to resolve discrepancies, mitigate operational risk, and maintain accurate client asset records.

Key Responsibilities

• Support the processing, verification, and reconciliation of securities transactions and asset movements across various custody platforms and market infrastructure systems.
• Apply working knowledge of securities processing, including:
• Depository Trust Company (DTC) and Federal Reserve Bank (FRB) transactions.
• Automated Customer Account Transfer Service (ACATS) and non-ACATS transfers.
• Gifts, donations, and other non-standard asset movements.
• Valuation updates for non-marketable assets.
• Physical securities processing, including required documentation.
• Direct Registration System (DRS) and Deposit/Withdrawal at Custodian (DWAC) transactions.
• Third-party mutual fund transactions processed through the National Securities Clearing Corporation (NSCC).
• Transfer agent coordination for asset movements and position reconciliations.
• Investment income payment processing.
• Research, investigate, and resolve securities discrepancies and processing breaks in collaboration with internal teams and external partners.
• Monitor transaction activity to ensure accuracy, completeness, and timely processing in accordance with established procedures and controls.
• Identify potential operational risks associated with securities transactions and asset movements and escalate issues to management as appropriate.
• Collaborate with internal departments to coordinate transaction processing, address inquiries, and maintain accurate client records.
• Manage multiple priorities while maintaining accuracy and efficiency in a high-volume, deadline-driven environment.
• Identify opportunities to improve operational processes and support the effectiveness of daily securities operations.

Qualifications

• Basic knowledge of financial services, investment products, and securities operations.
• Strong analytical, critical-thinking, and problem-solving skills, including the ability to investigate discrepancies and determine appropriate resolutions.
• Excellent organizational skills and attention to detail, with the ability to manage multiple tasks and deadlines.
• Ability to work effectively both independently and within a collaborative team environment.
• Self-motivated, results-driven, and eager to learn new systems, applications, and procedures.
• Excellent written and verbal communication skills, with the ability to interact professionally with internal stakeholders and external service providers.
• Sound judgment and an understanding of operational controls, risk identification, and escalation procedures.

Systems and Technical Skills

• Experience with multi-currency trust accounting systems, particularly Global Plus (FIS), is a plus.
• Familiarity with internal and external trading platforms and applications.
• Experience working with large custodial bank systems.
• Proficiency in Microsoft Office applications, including Excel, Access, Word, and Outlook.
• Ability to learn and navigate internal and third-party applications efficiently.

Preferred Knowledge and Experience

• Familiarity with corporate actions and investment income processing.
• Understanding of securities settlement processes and market infrastructure.
• Experience with securities, cash, or position reconciliations.
• Exposure to asset transfers, custody operations, and the resolution of transaction discrepancies.