Head of Fund Services, Wealth Management, London 12mo FTC – eFinancialCareers

Our client, a wealth management business, is seeking a Head of Fund Services within the ACD operations. The successful candidate will hold SMF 3 function, and drive strategic direction across fund services and investment operations, playing a central role in shaping business strategy and risk frameworks. This senior leadership board-level position requires someone who can navigate complex regulatory environments while leading a high-performing team and ensuring the delivery of optimal client outcomes.

Key Responsibilities

Lead as Executive Director (SMF 3), ensuring regulatory compliance and strategic oversight
Direct all product governance activities including reviews, value assessments, and consumer duty obligations
Oversee new product launches, fund closures, and corporate projects
Establish and maintain comprehensive investment risk management frameworks with clear escalation procedures
Monitor investment performance metrics, regulatory compliance limits, and trading activities across all funds (UCITS and NURS)
Hold responsibility for CASS oversight and money handling under SMCR, designing and implementing governance structures
Oversee day-to-day fund operations including fund accounting, valuations and NAV calculations, settlement and trade processing, and record management
Manage relationships with external service providers ensuring service quality and contractual compliance
Champion transformation initiatives across operations and technology platforms

Requirements

Board level senior leadership experience with 15+ years in asset management, fund administration, or related ACD functions
Proven track record as SMF 3 or equivalent senior management function within FCA-regulated environment
Previous CASS oversight experience with prescribed responsibility (PRz)
Board-level experience with demonstrated success in strategic planning and corporate governance
Strong technical knowledge of investment products, operational processes, and UK regulatory landscape
Strong people leadership ability
Commercial mindset combined with analytical rigor and sound decision-making capabilities