Director of Operations – Broker-Dealer

About the Role

A regulated financial services firm operating a U.S. broker-dealer platform is seeking an experienced Director of Operations to join its leadership team. This role is critical to ensuring the integrity, efficiency, and regulatory compliance of day-to-day broker-dealer operations.

The Director of Operations will oversee core operational processes, identify and mitigate operational risk, and drive continuous improvement across systems, controls, and workflows. The ideal candidate brings deep broker-dealer operations experience, strong regulatory knowledge, and a hands-on, solutions-oriented mindset.

Key Responsibilities

Operational Oversight

• Oversee daily broker-dealer operations, including trade processing, settlements, reconciliations, and cash and securities movements.

• Ensure accuracy, timeliness, and control across all financial and operational transactions.

Risk Management

• Identify, assess, and mitigate operational risks across the broker-dealer platform.

• Design, enhance, and maintain effective operational controls to reduce errors and exposure.

Regulatory Compliance

• Ensure ongoing compliance with SEC, FINRA, and other applicable regulatory requirements.

• Maintain appropriate documentation, reporting, and operational procedures in line with regulatory expectations.

Process Improvement & Automation

• Evaluate existing workflows to identify inefficiencies and operational gaps.

• Lead initiatives to improve processes, implement automation, and enhance scalability.

Audit & Internal Controls

• Partner with internal audit and compliance functions to support audits, exams, and control testing.

• Ensure operational practices align with regulatory standards and industry best practices.

Cross-Functional Collaboration

• Work closely with Clearing, Finance, AML, Compliance, Cash Management, and Stock Transfer teams to ensure operational alignment.

• Serve as a key operational liaison across internal stakeholders and external service providers.

Issue Resolution

• Investigate and resolve trade breaks, reconciliation issues, and escalated operational incidents.

• Drive timely resolution while identifying root causes and implementing corrective actions.

Requirements

• 10+ years of experience in broker-dealer operations or operations control.

• Strong working knowledge of SEC and FINRA regulatory frameworks.

• Demonstrated expertise in trade processing, reconciliations, operational risk management, and control design.

• Experience with industry platforms and infrastructure (e.g., DTCC, OCC, Bloomberg, or comparable systems).

• Understanding of omnibus clearing models.

• Strong analytical, problem-solving, and communication skills.

• Ability to operate effectively in a fast-paced, regulated environment.

Compensation & Benefits

What’s Offered

• Comprehensive medical benefits for employees and eligible dependents.

• 401(k) plan with employer contribution.

• Generous paid time off and paid holidays.

• Opportunities for professional development, learning, and cross-functional exposure.

• Performance-based discretionary bonus eligibility.

Compensation
Base salary is competitive and will be determined based on relevant experience, skills, location, and business needs. The expected base salary range for this role is $90,000 – $150,000, with eligibility for a discretionary bonus.