Head of China Securities Operations - China Securities NewCo

Citi; New York (NY); Hybrid; USD 374,000 - 628,000; Full time

Job summary

Citi is recruiting a Head of China Securities Operations to build and lead the new brokerage's operations from ground up in Shanghai. You will design the framework, select and implement critical systems, and establish scalable, compliant processes across clearing, settlement, custody and client services.

The role requires deep China securities knowledge, Mandarin fluency, and a track record of leading operations in a startup or new business. Hybrid work arrangements are possible.

Qualifications

• 15+ years of securities brokerage operations experience with at least 7 in leadership.
• Proven track record building operations for a securities firm in mainland China.
• Experience in start-up or new business launch environments is desirable.
• Deep knowledge of China's A-share, fixed income, and related products.
• Strong understanding of CSRC, PBOC, SAFE regulatory regimes.
• Familiarity with CSDC, CFETS, and major exchanges.
• Proven ability in process design, re-engineering, and system implementation.
• Excellent leadership, communication, and interpersonal skills.

Responsibilities

• Develop end-to-end operational strategy for the new brokerage.
• Lead setup of clearing, settlement, custody and client services.
• Select, implement and integrate OMS, PMS, and back-office systems (Rootnet).
• Ensure compliance with CSRC, SAFE, and related authorities.
• Establish robust internal controls, AML/KYC, and data privacy policies.
• Build and lead a high-performing operations team.
• Define budgets, KPIs and drive process improvements and automation.
• Oversee client onboarding and KYC procedures.

Skills

Leadership

Strategic planning

Stakeholder management

Regulatory awareness

Project management

Education

Bachelor's degree in Finance, Economics, Business Administration, or related

MBA or advanced degree preferred

Mandarin Chinese fluency (mandatory)

Job description

Head of China Securities Operations - China Securities NewCo

Location(s):

Shanghai, Shanghai Municipality, China

Job Type:

Hybrid

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Job Overview

We are looking for a highly experienced and strategic Head of Operations to establish and lead the entire operational framework for our new brokerage in China. This is a unique opportunity to build a world-class operations department from scratch. The ideal candidate will be a hands‑on leader with deep expertise in China's securities market, regulatory landscape, and operational best practices. You will be responsible for designing, implementing, and managing all operational processes, systems, and teams to ensure efficiency, scalability, and full compliance with Chinese regulations.

Key Responsibilities

Operational Strategy & Setup:

• Develop and execute the end-to‑end operational strategy for the new brokerage.
• Lead the setup of all operational infrastructure, including clearing, settlement, custody, and client services.
• Select, implement, and integrate key operational systems and technologies (e.g., OMS, PMS, back-office systems, Rootnet)

Regulatory Compliance & Risk Management:

• Ensure all operations are fully compliant with regulations from the China Securities Regulatory Commission (CSRC), the State Administration of Foreign Exchange (SAFE), and other relevant authorities.
• Establish and maintain robust internal controls, policies, and procedures (e.g., for AML/KYC, trade processing, and data privacy).
• Develop and oversee the firm's operational risk management framework to identify, mitigate, and report risks.

Team Leadership & Development:

• Build, train, and lead a high‑performing operations team.
• Foster a culture of excellence, accountability, and continuous improvement.
• Set performance goals and provide ongoing coaching and development for team members.

Core Operations Management:

• Oversee daily operations including trade capture, confirmation, clearing, and settlement for equities.
• Manage cash management, and securities financing operations.
• Establish and manage the client onboarding process, ensuring efficient and compliant KYC and account opening procedures.

Stakeholder & Vendor Management:

• Act as the primary liaison with key external partners, including local exchanges (SSE, SZSE), clearing houses (CSDC, SHCH), custodian banks, and technology vendors.
• Collaborate closely with internal departments, including Front Office, Compliance, Finance, and Technology, to ensure seamless business integration.

Financial & Performance Management:

• Develop and manage the operations department's budget.
• Define, monitor, and report on key performance indicators (KPIs) to drive efficiency and service quality.
• Lead projects aimed at process optimization and automation.

Qualifications

• Experience:
  • Minimum of 15+ years of experience in securities brokerage operations, with at least 7 years in a senior leadership role (e.g., Head/Director of Operations).
  • Proven track record of setting up and managing operations for a securities firm in mainland China is essential.
  • Extensive experience in a start‑up or new business launch environment is highly desirable.
• Knowledge & Skills:
  • In‑depth knowledge of China's A-share market, fixed income market, and related financial products.
  • Expert understanding of the Chinese regulatory environment, including rules set by CSRC, PBOC, and SAFE.
  • Strong familiarity with local market infrastructure, including CSDC, CFETS, and major exchanges.
  • Demonstrated ability in process design, re‑engineering, and implementing operational systems.
  • Excellent leadership, communication, and interpersonal skills.
• Education & Language:
  • Bachelor’s degree in Finance, Economics, Business Administration, or a related field. An MBA or other advanced degree is a plus.
  • Fluency in Mandarin Chinese is mandatory.
  • Professional proficiency in English is highly preferred.

Time Type:

Full time

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