About the Firm Our client is an innovative investment management firm, newly established in Hong Kong, specializing in equity long/short strategies across Asia and other regions. Their approach emphasises rigorous research, both at the macroeconomic and sector levels, to identify unique investment opportunities and deliver sustainable, long-term performance for our investors.
The Opportunity As a founding member of our leadership team, the Chief Operating Officer will play a pivotal role in shaping and managing the operational foundation of the company. This is an entrepreneurial position that requires hands-on leadership in building and scaling a best-in-class operational environment, ensuring regulatory compliance, and supporting the firm's growth objectives.
Responsibilities Fund Operations & Infrastructure - Spearhead the setup and continuous improvement of all operational systems, including legal and fund structuring (Cayman, onshore/offshore vehicles, SPCs, etc.).
- Oversee relationships with essential external partners such as administrators, prime brokers, custodians, auditors, legal advisors, and technology vendors.
- Coordinate critical milestones for fund launch, ensuring alignment across legal, investment, and investor relations functions.
Compliance & Regulatory Affairs - Manage the end-to-end licensing processes with relevant regulators, especially the SFC (Type 9 licensing).
- Develop and uphold robust compliance infrastructure, covering manuals, AML/CFT policies, and regulatory reporting requirements.
- Serve as the main point of contact for regulatory bodies, fostering a culture of strong governance.
Operational Management - Supervise daily operational workflows, including trade processing, reconciliation, cash management, NAV calculations, and portfolio accounting.
- Ensure seamless operations for middle- and back-office functions, including settlements, corporate actions, and valuation processes.
- Drive operational due diligence readiness, overseeing investor onboarding (KYC/AML), side letters, and documentation management.
Risk & Control Frameworks - Establish and maintain comprehensive internal controls to manage operational, financial, and reputational risk.
- Lead third-party due diligence, enforce cybersecurity standards, and implement business continuity practices.
- Continuously monitor operational metrics and ensure timely escalation and resolution of risks.
Investor Relations & Support - Assist in fundraising by preparing operational content for investor materials and due diligence questionnaires.
- Oversee all investor servicing activities, including onboarding, reporting, and processing capital flows.
- Liaise with legal and administrative partners to ensure efficient and accurate investor communications.
Team & Culture - Help shape the firm's culture, promoting high standards of performance and collaboration.
- Lead recruitment and management of operations, finance, and compliance staff as the firm grows.
- Take on additional operational or administrative responsibilities as required, especially in the early stages (e.g., HR, vendor management, tech systems).
Key Requirements - At least 10 years' experience in hedge fund operations, with a preference for those who have been involved in new launches or high-growth environments.
- Solid technical proficiency in fund structures, portfolio operations, compliance, and financial management.
- Deep familiarity with Asia-Pacific regulatory environments, particularly SFC and Cayman Islands governance.
- Demonstrated ability to manage teams and external partnerships effectively.
- Outstanding communication and interpersonal skills, with strong organizational and leadership capabilities.
- Uncompromising integrity and discretion in handling confidential matters.
- Proficiency in English.