Wealth Management | Operations | Executive Director

The COB (Client Onboarding) Operations Team is embedded within the Firm’s Wealth Management Operations Group. It is responsible for identifying, collecting, and ensuring all documentation and information associated with onboarding new clients or managing existing clients has been received in good order. The COB Operations Team is considered the first line of defense and supports the onboarding and CIP (Client Identification Program) for Morgan Stanley clients.

The COB Operations ED is a part of Wealth Management Operations and is responsible for overseeing processes related to the Client Onboarding and CIP program. The ED will support the execution and management of the Firm’s CIP protocols for both new and existing customers. This includes managing programs and processes to support the examination of potential risk exposure for the Firm.

In addition, the COB Operations ED will have responsibility overseeing processes related to these programs and processes.

The COB Operations Team ED will manage the end‑to‑end CIP/Onboarding workflow of the operational functions of the CIP program focused on the collection of required information and or documentation for new and existing clients to effectively support the firm’s KYC program including but not limited to:

• Manage the implementation of internal policies, provide periodic reporting to senior stakeholders, and make recommendations to improve procedures governing risk‑related activities.
• Active pipeline management and engagement with Financial Advisors, Complex Management and Risk Officers to onboard new and existing International Banking & Lending client relationships.
• Lead key projects and initiatives related to increasing efficiencies and reducing operational risks in support of the firm’s CDD program.
• Ability to delegate while providing appropriate guidance to the team to provide superior support across the organization.
• Manage processes set up to complete Client Onboarding and CIP for Wealth Management and US Banks clients including reviewing customer data and documentation to satisfy Compliance requirements.
• Provide oversight and supervisory support for COB Operations Staff and serve as a point of contact for questions, issues, and escalations.
• Manage Internal and external examinations to test Operational support of the COB Program.
• Strong knowledge of control frameworks and the ability to design and evaluate effectiveness of controls embedded within business processes.
• Provide operational services in support of the growth of the WM and US Banks businesses. Partner with Business Units, including Private Bankers, Lending Advisors, and Branch Risk Officers, to ensure appropriate client onboarding are enacted while providing a positive client experience.
• Demonstrate a strong understanding of the compliance and regulatory frameworks that apply to financial institutions.

• 8+ years of relevant experience with Client Onboarding within the financial services industry, or at a financial services regulator (e.g., FINRA, Securities and Exchange Commission, Office of the Comptroller of the Currency, Federal Reserve Bank, etc.)
• Strong leadership qualities with the ability to effectively manage teams, lead by example and demonstrate a strong work ethic and integrity.
• Have an undergraduate degree in Business, Finance, or other related fields.
• Strong knowledge of Know Your Customer, Customer Identification Program and CDD requirements.
• Strong interpersonal skills and ability to communicate effectively both verbally and in writing.

• Expertise in managing programs focused on ensuring quality within CIP programs. Experience with data and trend analysis related to the management of a CIP program. Strong understanding of requisite Microsoft Office applications and ability to learn new internal systems quickly.
• Legal background / experience an advantage.
• Strong verbal and written communication skills.

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