Operational Onboarding Lead, Real Estate

Who we're looking for
We are looking for an ambitious Operational Onboarding Lead to join our Real Estate Operations function based in London, but with a global focus.
This role, which is newly created, is responsible for the definition, implementation and maintaining the mandate and product onboarding framework. The role is also responsible to support and lead Operating Model developments as they relate to the Global Real Estate Operating Platform, with key focus to ensure our platform is aligned with the wider Schroder Capital global Operating platform.
Reporting to the Chief Operating Officer, Real Estate, the role holder is innovative and passionate and demonstrates a superior level of skill, experience and professionalism.
It is envisaged that this role will collaborate with equivalent role holders within other Schroder Capital asset classes and utilize wider structures available.

About Schroders
We're a global investment manager. We help institutions, intermediaries and individuals around the world invest money to meet their goals, fulfil their ambitions, and prepare for the future.

We have around 6,000 people on six continents. And we've been around for over 200 years, but keep adapting as society and technology changes. What doesn't change is our commitment to helping our clients, and society, prosper.

The base
We moved into our new HQ in the City of London in 2018. We're close to our clients, in the heart of the UK's financial centre. And we have everything we need to work flexibly.

The team
Our award-winning Real Estate department is an integral part of Schroders' Capital division. We manage a broad range of real estate funds globally, including open/closed ended direct funds, listed REITs, mutual funds investing in global real estate securities as well as private partnership and multi-manager funds. Schroder Real Estate also manages joint ventures and separate accounts meeting specific client investment objectives. 

What you'll do
•    Define, implement and maintain an Operational mandate framework for Real estate Fund Operations globally
•    Define, implement and maintain a framework for new product initiatives globally
•    Research, evaluate and implement client-specific requirements and solutions from an operational point of view
•    Contribute on behalf of Operations in RFP Processes
•    Support the Operational team in client due diligence sessions
•    Represent Operations in sales pitches, involved from the very beginning of the process (pre-sales) and supporting mandate and client negotiations 
•    Facilitate complex mandate/ product onboarding from an operational point of view and ensure smooth transition to the Operational team, including detailed documentation of processes and requirements
•    Enable and drive change initiatives in relation to the operational mandate framework within Real Estate Fund Operations globally
•    Analyze client and business requirements proactively for current and newly acquired clients
•    Act as the first point of contact and a center of competence for mandate onboarding related questions and interact daily with various stakeholders
•    Develop service procedures, policies and standards related to the framework, client acquisition and onboarding from an Operations perspective

The knowledge, experience and qualifications you need
•    Degree in a relevant discipline such as business administration, engineering or finance, or similar
•    Experience of operating and onboarding different Real Estate structures, ideally obtained in a blue-chip organization. May be a qualified accountant.
•    At least 15 years' experience in the financial industry, in operations and client facing roles
•    Logical, problem-solving attitude with proven track record of managing multiple stakeholders
•    Strong understanding of private assets
•    Strong analytical and project management skills and ability to drive different processes at the same time
•    Good understanding of private assets structuring across multiple jurisdictions
•    Ability to effectively communicate with both internal and external parties
•    Experience in working with colleagues and stakeholders globally and sensitivity to cultural differences, zones etc.
•    Excellent command of the English language, both written and spoken. French or German would be an advantage

What you'll be like
•    Hard working
•    Analytical and willing to question existing processes to drive improvements
•    Good communicator
•    Extremely organized and good project management skills
•    Team player
•    Confident
•    Self-motivated and ability to motivate teams.
•    Consistent record of meeting deadlines.
•    Interpersonal skills and ability to deal with a wide range of people
•    Demonstrate that they can uphold Schroders' core values. 
•    Interested in developing/progressing a career within Private Assets

We recognise potential, whoever you are
Our purpose is to provide excellent investment performance to clients through active management. Diversity of thought, facilitated by an inclusive culture, will allow us to make better decisions and better achieve our purpose. This is why inclusion and diversity are a strategic priority for us and why we are an equal opportunities employer. You are welcome here, regardless of your age, disability, gender identity, religious beliefs, sexual orientation, socio-economic background, or any other protected characteristic.