Operations Associate

Position Overview: The Operations Associate supports Advisors by managing all operational and custodial processes required to open, maintain, and service client accounts while maintaining operational accuracy and client‑focused service. This role ensures that paperwork is completed accurately, assets are transferred efficiently, and operational issues are resolved quickly so Advisors can deliver a seamless client experience. The successful candidate will be a high-energy, team-oriented, and collaborative individual who supports the investment needs of the firm's Advisors and their clients. Must be able to successfully operate as a hands-on contributor in a fast-paced, team-oriented, and deadline-sensitive environment. The ideal candidate will have excellent organizational and communication skills, while being able to handle a variety of operational tasks with precision.

Responsibilities: Account Paperwork Processing — Review, prepare, and submit new account applications, maintenance forms, and custodial documents for accuracy and completeness. Custodial Coordination — Work directly with custodians (Schwab, Fidelity, etc.) to ensure timely account setup, updates, and issue resolution. Asset Transfers — Initiate and monitor ACAT and non‑ACAT transfers, verify cost basis, and confirm assets are received and properly allocated. Advisor Support — Serve as the primary operational contact for Advisors, providing updates on paperwork status, transfer progress, and account readiness. Issue Resolution — Troubleshoot and resolve account discrepancies, rejected paperwork, missing signatures, transfer delays, and custodian‑related problems. Account Maintenance — Process beneficiary updates, address changes, bank link setups, RMD requests, and other ongoing account servicing needs. Documentation & Recordkeeping — Maintain accurate records of paperwork submissions, transfer confirmations, and custodial communications for compliance and audit purposes. Process Improvement — Identify opportunities to streamline operational workflows, reduce errors, and enhance Advisor and client experience.

Education: Bachelor’s degree in Business, Finance, or related field preferred.

Experience: 2+ years of experience in financial operations, client service, or custodial processing within an RIA, broker‑dealer, or financial services firm.

Technical Skills: Familiarity with custodial platforms (Schwab, Fidelity, etc.) and comfort working with digital paperwork systems; experience with Orion is a plus. Regulatory Knowledge — Understanding of account types, transfer rules, and basic SEC/RIA compliance requirements.

Soft Skills: Strong attention to detail, excellent communication, problem‑solving ability, and a service‑oriented mindset. Success Indicators High accuracy and low rejection rate for paperwork submissions Timely completion of account openings and transfers Strong Advisor satisfaction with responsiveness and clarity Smooth, error‑free account setup and maintenance Demonstrated initiative in improving operational processes Position: Full-time

Location: Wheaton, IL (100% onsite - not a remote/hybrid/WFH position)

Benefits: Medical, Dental, Vision, 401(k) w/match, Life, Maternity, Paternity, and PTO (paid vacation, sick, and personal time off)

Pay Range: $50k-$75k (depending on experience)