Platform Solutions and Operations SVP - Austin

 

CAIS is the leading alternative investment platform for independent financial advisors. The CAIS platform powers the pre-trade, trade, and post-trade lifecycle of alternative investments providing financial advisors and alternative asset managers a single operating system for scale and efficiency. CAIS serves over 2,000 wealth management firms that support more than 50,000 financial advisors who oversee approximately $6 trillion in end-client assets. Founded in 2009, CAIS is headquartered in New York City with offices in Austin and London. 

We are seeking a highly driven and strategic leader to join our Platform Solutions & Operations team as a Post-Trade Reporting and Operations SVP. This pivotal role will oversee a global team and lead CAIS’ post-trade alternative investment delivery. You will ensure flawless execution of daily operations, strengthen client and partner relationships, and design scalable solutions that power the future of our platform.   

You are a proactive, entrepreneurial problem-solver who thrives in dynamic environments. You combine strategic vision with rigorous attention to detail, anticipate future needs, and consistently raise the bar for operational excellence. A natural mentor and collaborator, you inspire teams, build trust with clients, and continuously seek opportunities to innovate and scale. 

Key Responsibilities   

Operational Leadership & Time Management: 

• Lead CAIS Platform Operations across the post-trade alternative investment lifecycle including (e.g., distributions, capital calls, valuations, subscriptions, transfers, and redemptions). 
• Direct a global team, ensuring resources are aligned, SLAs are met, and BAU activities run seamlessly.
• Serve as escalation point and subject matter expert, fostering trust with clients, partners, and internal stakeholders. 

Process Optimization & Innovation:  

• Identify, design, and implement automation and process improvements that enhance efficiency and scalability.
• Leverage data analysis and reporting tools to support informed decision-making and continuous improvement.
• Champion emerging technologies, including GenAI, to streamline operations and unlock new capabilities. 

Strategic Project & Risk Management 

• Lead high-impact projects from initiation through execution, including scoping, requirements, risk mitigation, and delivery.
• Provide transparent updates to senior leadership, ensuring accountability and alignment with company strategy.
• Anticipate future operational needs and build business cases to drive strategic investments. 

Cross-Functional Partnerships & Business Growth 

• Collaborate with Product, Marketing, Distribution, and Strategy teams to create client-facing collateral, training materials, and sales enablement content.
• Act as a strategic advisor in client and partner engagements, shaping solutions and identifying new business opportunities.
• Support business development efforts by bringing operational expertise into client discussions and proposals.  

Qualifications 

Required 

• 8+ years of experience in alternative investment operations.
• Deep understanding of fund accounting, reconciliation, and settlement processes across alternatives (PE, Hedge, Credit, Real Assets).
• Proven track record leading and developing global teams.
• Bachelor’s degree in business, economics, finance, or a related discipline.
• Strong data analysis capabilities; proficiency in Excel, SQL, and Tableau.
• Experience with project management tools (e.g., Airtable, Jira, Asana, Monday).
• Exceptional organizational, communication, and relationship-management skills.
• Demonstrated ability to thrive in fast-paced environments and manage competing priorities. 

Preferred 

• Familiarity with emerging technologies, including GenAI, and ability to apply them to operational solutions.
• Experience collaborating with Custodians, Fund Administrators, and Reporting Providers, with a proven ability to manage complex counterparties and ensure seamless data and cash flow reconciliation.
• Familiarity with AIP-DTCC processing standards and other industry utilities suppo