Associate - Operational Efficiency role at The Catalyst Group As the Associate - Operational Efficiency , you will be responsible for following the Catalyst management and operations teams in executing the firm's automation strategy. You will play a critical role in the creation, design, development, and implementation of automation systems that drive operational efficiencies. The position requires you to maintain automation programs, support the maintenance of automation platforms such as Xceptor, and work with a team of developers on the development, testing, and deployment of automated solutions. About the Role Here are the core responsibilities and tasks expected as part of this role: Responsibilities 1. Automation & Program Delivery Automation Planning & Delivery: Maintain successful planning, development, and delivery of large-scale automation programs, ensuring these programs deliver significant business transformation benefits. Follow multiple automation initiatives to ensure they are completed on time and within budget. Program Management: Oversee the execution of automation projects, identify new automation technologies, and implement solutions that transform operational capabilities. Drive process improvements and increased efficiency across various lines of business. 2. Automation of Data Management & Systems Integration Data Management Automation: Assist in the automation of bulk data management processes, including trades, positions, pricing, static data, and corporate actions. Work with technical teams to ensure data is seamlessly integrated into portfolio systems. Systems Integration: Support the integration of portfolio management systems (PMS) and order management systems (OMS) with data warehouses, reporting systems, and other related technologies. Ensure all integrations function smoothly and efficiently. System Administration Support: Assist with the system administration and ongoing maintenance of portfolio management systems, data management systems, and reporting platforms, ensuring they remain operational, secure, and optimized. SOC Audit Support: Help ensure compliance with regulatory requirements by supporting the applicable SOC audits for portfolio and data management systems. Ensure systems are aligned with industry standards and operational policies. System Issue Resolution: Resolve complex system-based queries that impact the accuracy of position and PSL valuations. Work with technical teams to troubleshoot and provide solutions to system issues, ensuring data accuracy. Valuation & Setup of Assets: Assist in the setup and maintenance of asset classes and valuations, ensuring the integrity and accuracy of financial data used for reporting and analysis. Advent Geneva Expertise: Develop and maintain intermediate knowledge of Advent Geneva portfolio and general ledger modules. Ensure the system is configured and operating effectively to support fund accounting, asset management, and reporting. Advanced Xceptor/Azure Knowledge: Develop intermediary knowledge and support the development of automation solutions using this platform to improve operational efficiency. 3. Continuous Improvement & Process Optimization Process Improvement: Continuously identify areas of inefficiency in operational processes and recommend solutions that leverage automation and technology to streamline workflows. Operational Excellence: Champion the adoption of process automation technologies and encourage cross‑functional collaboration to improve operational efficiency and effectiveness. Insights & Best Practices: Share insights and best practices with teams to foster a culture of continuous improvement and operational excellence. 4. Client Interaction & Ad‑hoc Support Client Collaboration: Work indirectly with clients to understand their automation needs and identify opportunities where Catalyst can provide value. Translate client requirements into effective automation solutions. Ad‑hoc Requests: Provide support for any day‑to‑day requests that arise from clients or internal teams. Solve issues proactively and maintain service levels. New Product Development: Contribute to the creation and implementation of new automation‑based products and solutions that meet changing client needs and enhance service delivery. 5. Cross‑Functional Collaboration Help manage workloads and ensure team members have the resources and support they need to succeed. Collaboration Across Teams: Collaborate with other operational teams, including IT, client services, and business users, to implement automation solutions and ensure seamless integration into existing workflows. Qualifications Bachelor's degree in Finance, Mathematics, Computer Science, Accounting, Engineering, or a related field. A minimum of 2 years of professional experience in fund administration or a similar financial services environment. Experience in operational efficiency, automation, or process optimization is essential. Required Skills Advanced knowledge of Robotic Process Automation (RPA) tools such as Automation Anywhere, UI Path, or similar. Previous knowledge of AI programming will be a plus. Advanced knowledge of portfolio accounting systems (e.g., Advent Geneva) and data management platforms. Familiarity with OMS/PMS, data warehouse integration, and FTP processes is a must. Some experience with data management systems, vendor systems (e.g., Bloomberg, Markit, Reuters), and financial data integration. In‑depth understanding of complex financial instruments, including listed and OTC derivatives, and their associated valuations. Familiarity with SQL, VBA, and/or other programming languages is preferred. Proficiency in Microsoft Office tools, especially Excel, is essential for data analysis and reporting. Ability to troubleshoot and resolve complex system‑based issues that affect operational processes and financial data accuracy. Proven experience managing multiple high‑demand projects, delivering within tight deadlines and budgets. Strong verbal and written communication skills with the ability to explain complex technical concepts to both technical and non‑technical stakeholders. Prior experience in client‑facing roles and managing relationships from a service perspective. Exposure to Xceptor/Azure: some knowledge of Xceptor/Azure, focusing on its use for automation and data management within the fund administration industry. Intermediate understanding of the investment fund industry, including portfolio management, NAV, accounting, and audit processes. Awareness of industry regulations and compliance requirements affecting financial services and fund administration. Ability to problem‑solve and think strategically, focusing on driving innovation and efficiency through automation. Seniority level Entry level Employment type Full‑time Job function Information Technology Industries Financial Services and Data Infrastructure and Analytics Referrals increase your chances of interviewing at The Catalyst Group by 2x. Cape Town, Western Cape, South Africa #J-18808-Ljbffr