Director, Alternative Investments – Operational Due Diligence

Ascendo Resources; Illinois; On-site; USD 140,000 - 160,000; Full time

Job summary

A financial services firm in Illinois is seeking a Director of Alternative Investment Operational Due Diligence. The role involves developing and maintaining due diligence programs for alternative investments. Candidates should have a Bachelor's degree in finance or accounting and 5–7 years of relevant experience. A CAIA, CFA, or CPA is preferred. The position offers a salary range of $140,000 to $160,000 annually.

Qualifications

• Bachelor’s degree in accounting or finance and 5–7 years of relevant experience.
• Or equivalent education, experience, and training.

Responsibilities

• Develop and maintain operational due diligence program.
• Perform operational risk reviews of funds and prepare reports.
• Lead onsite due diligence reviews of asset managers.

Skills

Strong written and verbal communication across varied audiences

Performance calculations

Analyzing financial information, including audited financial statements

Proficiency in Excel and Access

Education

Bachelor’s degree in accounting or finance

5–7 years of experience at a broker-dealer, hedge fund, private equity firm

Job description

1 day ago Be among the first 25 applicants

This range is provided by Ascendo Resources. Your actual pay will be based on your skills and experience — talk with your recruiter to learn more.

Base pay range

$140,000.00/yr - $160,000.00/yr

Direct message the job poster from Ascendo Resources

THIS ROLE WILL BE BASED IN THE TAMPA/ST PETE AREA OF FLORIDA

Job Summary

Under very limited supervision, the Director of Alternative Investment Operational Due Diligence utilizes specialized knowledge and skills obtained through direct experience and formal training to develop and maintain an operational due diligence program that supports a platform of non-traditional investment opportunities for high-net-worth clients. Coverage includes hedge funds, private equity funds, real estate funds, managed futures, and other alternative investment vehicles. The Director is expected to lead onsite diligence meetings and regularly communicate with senior executives of external fund managers to obtain information necessary to evaluate investment structures, offering terms, trading and operational processes, as well as legal and compliance programs. The role includes substantial autonomy and discretion when interacting with fund managers. Upon completing due diligence reviews, the Director provides supported recommendations through written reports. The individual may also participate in economic negotiations and deliver presentations to large audiences as needed. The position requires independent decision-making and the ability to perform complex functions with minimal guidance.

Essential Duties and Responsibilities

• Assist in the development, enhancement, and ongoing maintenance of the operational due diligence program; update its design as needed.
• Perform operational risk reviews of funds and prepare written reports summarizing findings.
• Conduct and lead onsite due diligence reviews of third-party asset managers and service providers, including operational support, internal controls, trade processing, and staffing.
• Evaluate accounting and reporting processes and controls, including cash management, valuation practices, and NAV analysis.
• Review financial statements and other documentation related to control environments.
• Assess asset managers’ adherence to internal compliance policies and regulatory requirements.
• Develop and execute an annual project plan covering required ongoing operational due diligence reviews.
• Utilize technology and apply lessons learned to improve operational due diligence processes.
• Provide strategic mentorship and coaching to team members to support their development.
• Respond to inquiries from financial advisors regarding the operational infrastructure of funds on the platform.
• Support product teams to enhance platform competitiveness and advisor satisfaction while helping to meet regulatory and oversight obligations.
• Develop and distribute topical reports to educate advisors on regulatory updates and industry trends related to operational due diligence.
• Maintain an organized archive of regulatory updates and educational materials for internal reference.
• Perform other duties and responsibilities as assigned.

Knowledge of

• Operations of broker‑dealers, hedge funds, private equity, and related financial firms
• Fund accounting procedures and audit practices
• Complex investment concepts, securities industry practices, and financial markets
• Quantitative and qualitative aspects of the investment management business and performance measurement
• Major securities laws as they apply to alternative investment funds

Skill in

• Strong written and verbal communication across varied audiences
• Performance calculations
• Analyzing financial information, including audited financial statements
• Proficiency in Excel and Access

Ability to

• Produce accurate information regarding products and projects
• Communicate effectively with financial advisors about operational infrastructure, investment managers, and performance reporting
• Manage and track multiple detailed tasks in a fast‑paced environment with shifting priorities
• Maintain attention to detail while understanding broader business objectives
• Read, interpret, analyze, and apply information from professional publications
• Meet deadlines for delivering monthly and quarterly data
• Work both independently and collaboratively
• Lead meetings and contribute to team outcomes by ensuring the completeness and relevance of information

Educational / Experience Requirements

• Bachelor’s degree in accounting or finance and 5–7 years of experience at a broker‑dealer, hedge fund, private equity firm, or similar organization in a related role
• OR
• An equivalent combination of education, experience, and training

Licenses / Certifications (Preferred)

• CAIA, CFA, or CPA
• Securities Industry Essentials (SIE)

Seniority level

Director

Employment type

Full‑time

Job function

Finance

Industries: Staffing and Recruiting and Financial Services