Manager - AIF Operations

Job Overview:

The Manager – AIF (Alternative Investment Fund) Operations is responsible for overseeing the daily operations of AIF-related activities, ensuring efficient management of the fund's processes, and maintaining strong internal controls. The role will require close interaction with investment managers, clients, fund administrators, and other internal stakeholders. The Manager will lead a team, ensuring the effective execution of fund-related operations, including compliance, reporting, trade settlements, NAV calculations, and investor services.
Key Responsibilities:

AIF Operations Management:
Oversee the end-to-end operational activities related to the AIF, including trade settlements, fund accounting, NAV calculations, investor transactions, and reconciliation.
Ensure timely and accurate execution of operational tasks related to the fund's investments and financial reporting.
Coordinate with the fund administration team to ensure smooth fund operations, compliance with investment guidelines, and regulatory requirements.

Investor Services & Reporting:
Ensure accurate investor reporting and timely distribution of investor communications such as capital calls, distributions, performance reports, and other fund-related updates.
Manage investor onboarding processes, ensuring compliance with KYC/AML guidelines.
Resolve investor queries regarding NAV, distributions, and other operational matters.

Trade & Transaction Processing:
Supervise the processing of trades and other investment-related activities.
Oversee cash management, reconciliation of trading activities, and support investment operations teams in facilitating smooth execution.

Compliance and Risk Management:
Ensure all AIF operations comply with relevant regulatory frameworks (e.g., AIFMD, SEBI, FATCA).
Support internal audits, external audits, and regulatory inspections.
Assist in the identification and mitigation of operational risks within the fund’s activities.

Team Leadership and Development:
Lead and mentor a team of operational staff, providing guidance and support on day-to-day operations.
Conduct training and development programs to ensure the team is updated on industry trends, regulations, and new processes.
Manage performance, setting clear objectives and providing regular feedback.

Process Optimization & Automation:
Identify opportunities to streamline and automate operational processes to improve efficiency and reduce manual errors.
Collaborate with technology teams to enhance system functionality and implement process improvements.

Stakeholder Management:
Liaise with external service providers, including custodians, administrators, auditors, and legal advisors, ensuring smooth communication and issue resolution.
Work closely with internal stakeholders, including portfolio managers, compliance, and finance teams, to support operational requirements.
Qualifications and Skills:

Education:
Bachelor's degree in Finance, Accounting, Business Administration, or a related field.
Professional certifications like CFA, CAIA, or FRM would be an advantage.

Experience:
Minimum 5-7 years of experience in AIF operations or related roles in asset management, hedge funds, private equity, or investment banking.
Proven experience in fund operations, NAV calculation, trade settlements, and investor services.
In-depth knowledge of AIF-related regulations, compliance requirements, and financial reporting standards.

Skills:
Strong understanding of AIFMD, SEBI regulations, FATCA, and other relevant financial regulations.
Proficiency in fund accounting software and MS Office applications.
Ability to analyze and resolve complex operational issues.
Excellent communication skills, both verbal and written.
Strong leadership skills with experience in managing teams.

Personal Attributes:
Attention to detail and high level of accuracy.
Ability to work in a fast-paced and dynamic environment.
Strong problem-solving and critical thinking abilities.
Ability to prioritize and manage multiple tasks simultaneously.