Eight to ten years experience at a manager level in a similar environment is preferable. Detailed knowledge of all global fixed income instruments - asset structures, accounting, settlement and reporting - including: cash and money market instruments, exchange and OTC derivatives. The individual requires a strong operational risk focus as well as being adaptable to a constantly changing environment; appropriately analysing the need for process re-engineering of workflow, and enhancing risk management tools where necessary. It is a necessity to be able to communicate effectively to Western's counterparties and clients and display excellent inter-organizational relations to integrate the department with the organization as a whole. A clear understanding of the impact of issues which may arise and concise articulation of the risks is vital. Effective independent research, writing and presentation skills are required. In addition, the incumbent must have quality leadership skills and the ability to motivate others to excel in the pursuit of the organization's goals.

 Responsibilities:

Reporting to the Global Securities Operations Manager

Derivatives Knowledge

Detailed knowledge of structured product instruments including CDS, CDX, IRS and total return swaps including post trade event processing: confirmation, novation, credit event processing and collateral management. Industry solutions supporting all of the previous trade lifecycle components.

Business Strategy

Understand Western's current OTC workflow model, continually monitor market events and regulatory changes while modelling and making recommendations for the future strategic direction for Western's Investment Support systems. Independent review and constant alignment of Western's capabilities to support OTC processing in line with regulatory recommended timelines through  discussions with business partners and performing written cost / benefit analysis.

Project Management

Plan, scope and monitor implementation of all derivative projects, ensuring timelines are met. Attend technology meetings and work with the business groups to perform the necessary testing and provide written status reports to management.

Communication

Articulate complex derivative concepts to clients, auditors and senior management. Respond to RFP questions. Good Powerpoint presentation skills. Proven negotiation skills with vendor organizations. Independently draft and publish a bi-weekly Derivatives Newsletter for internal distribution to other departments and senior management.

Actively participate in industry calls to convey Western's view and report current market issues internally to peers and management.

Communicate with Western's global offices on a regular basis to support Western's 'Global Operating Model'. Initiate and manage 'Industry Update' meetings to support communication of ideas and strategy to Global Securities Operations Team Members. 

Training

Ability to independently manage training and Q & A sessions. Create training plans, develop materials and present clearly to large size internal audiences.