Sanlam Investments East Africa (SIEA) is a leading fund manager in the region with over KShs 230 billion in assets under management. Reporting directly to the Chief Executive Officer, the Chief Operating Officer (COO) will provide executive leadership and oversight across SIEA's core operational, administrative, technology, financial management, legal, and compliance functions.
Key Responsibilities
Investment Operations: Lead and manage the investment operations activities, resources, and service delivery standards by driving continuous process improvement, operational efficiency, and automation initiatives. Ensure accurate and timely administration of client accounts and reporting, maintain operational controls within regulatory requirements, and build strong working relationships with third-party service providers.
Unit Trust Operations: Oversee all unit trust operational activities and resources. Ensure accurate processing and administration of investor transactions and client accounts, adherence to trust deeds, regulatory requirements, and SLAs. Identify opportunities to improve operational efficiency, client service, and enhance risk management.
Information Technology: Provide overall leadership of the IT function ensuring appropriate and optimized infrastructure, systems, and equipment. Ensure adherence to information security and data protection policies, and oversee the maintenance and testing of the Business Continuity Plan and disaster recovery arrangements.
Human Resources and Administration: Foster a culture of trust, collaboration, accountability, inclusivity, and excellence by leading and strengthening end-to-end HR functions. Ensure employee benefits administration and maintenance of accurate personnel records. Direct office administration and facilities management to ensure a safe, productive, and professional working environment.
Financial Management and Reporting: Oversight of annual operating budget, financial planning, budgeting, and forecasting. Coordinate annual audits, tax reviews, and regulatory reporting, maintain financial policies and controls, and monitor financial performance, recommending corrective actions where necessary. Ensure accurate, meaningful financial reporting to management and the Board.
Company Secretarial and Legal Affairs: Oversee corporate governance and company secretarial matters, acting as the primary liaison with external legal advisors as required. Coordinate Board and Committee meetings and preparation of related communication. Maintain statutory records and governance documentation, ensuring compliance with all applicable legal, statutory, and regulatory obligations. Ensure legal due diligence, contract reviews, and document management.
Compliance and Regulatory Oversight: Oversee the compliance function to ensure adherence to regulatory requirements, obligations, and internal policies. Ensure accurate and timely submission of regulatory returns and reports, ensure effectiveness of compliance systems, coordinate audits and inspections, and promote a strong culture of compliance.
Qualifications and Requirements
Bachelor's degree (BA/BSc/HND) in Business Administration, Finance, Operations, or a related field.
Significant senior executive leadership experience in financial services, asset management, or fund management operations.