Head of Investment Banking Operations

Placements24; Cape Town; On-site; ZAR 2,500,000 - 4,000,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Executive compensation package

Medical aid

Retirement annuity

Equity options

International travel opportunities

Job summary

Our client, a prestigious investment bank in Cape Town, seeks a Head of Investment Banking Operations to oversee all operational aspects of the division, drive efficiency, compliance and seamless execution of transactions. The successful candidate will shape operational strategies, manage a large team, and collaborate with senior stakeholders across departments.

This role is based in the Western Cape region.

Qualifications

• 10+ years in investment banking operations with progressive leadership.
• Senior management experience leading large teams.
• Strong understanding of trade lifecycle, markets and regulatory needs.

Responsibilities

• Oversee day-to-day operations of the investment banking division, including trade processing, settlement, reconciliation, and client reporting.
• Develop and implement policies to enhance efficiency, manage risk, and ensure regulatory compliance.
• Oversee technology infrastructure supporting operations for reliability and scalability.
• Manage relationships with vendors, custodians, and regulators.
• Drive process improvements and automate workflows to reduce costs.
• Mentor a high-performing operations team and foster continuous improvement.
• Prepare operational reports for senior management and the board.
• Ensure robust risk management frameworks across all functions.

Skills

Leadership

Strategic thinking

Risk management

Regulatory compliance

Stakeholder management

Team leadership

Communication

Education

Bachelor's degree in Finance

MBA desirable

Tools

Financial software

Job description

About the Role

Our client, a prestigious investment bank located in the heart of Cape Town , is seeking a highly experienced and strategic Head of Investment Banking Operations. This senior leadership role is responsible for overseeing all operational aspects of the investment banking division, ensuring efficiency, compliance, and seamless execution of transactions. The successful candidate will play a critical role in shaping operational strategies, managing a large team, and collaborating with senior stakeholders across various departments. This is a key position for driving operational excellence in a leading financial services firm in the vibrant Western Cape region.

Key Responsibilities

• Lead and manage the day-to-day operations of the investment banking division, including trade processing, settlement, reconciliation, and client reporting.
• Develop and implement operational policies and procedures to enhance efficiency, mitigate risk, and ensure regulatory compliance.
• Oversee the technology infrastructure supporting investment banking operations, ensuring reliability and scalability.
• Manage relationships with external vendors, custodians, and regulatory bodies.
• Drive process improvement initiatives and leverage technology to automate workflows and reduce operational costs.
• Develop and mentor a high-performing operations team, fostering a culture of excellence and continuous improvement.
• Prepare detailed operational reports for senior management and the board, highlighting key performance indicators and risk exposures.
• Ensure robust risk management frameworks are in place and effectively implemented across all operational functions.

Requirements

• Bachelor's degree in Finance, Business Administration, or a related field; MBA or relevant professional qualification is highly desirable.
• Minimum of 10 years of progressive experience in investment banking operations, with at least 5 years in a senior management role.
• Proven track record in managing complex operational environments and leading large teams.
• Deep understanding of financial markets, instruments, trade lifecycle, and regulatory requirements (e.g., FICA, Companies Act).
• Strong experience with financial technology systems and implementing operational improvements.
• Exceptional leadership, communication, and interpersonal skills.
• Strategic thinker with a proven ability to drive change and achieve business objectives.
• Demonstrated ability to manage risk and ensure compliance in a highly regulated environment.

Benefits

Our client offers an exceptional executive compensation package, including a substantial base salary, significant bonus potential, and equity options. Comprehensive medical aid, a generous retirement annuity, and executive-level life insurance are provided. This role is based in our prime Cape Town office, offering a stimulating work environment. Opportunities for international travel and professional development at leading industry conferences are available. Join a globally recognized firm and lead operations for one of its most critical divisions in the beautiful Western Cape .