Associate Director - Client Welcome Team

This review provides an overview of the Associate Director - Client Welcome Team position, highlighting key aspects to help potential candidates make informed career decisions.

Opportunity Overview

The Associate Director - Client Welcome Team role presents a significant leadership opportunity within the operational hub of the Commercial Bank. This position is central to the bank's vision of becoming the premier banking partner for commercial clients. The team is responsible for facilitating new client onboarding, including the opening of approximately 10,000 new bank accounts annually, while crucially safeguarding against financial crime such as money laundering.

Reporting to the Director for CSD, the Associate Director will oversee a client-facing operation within a highly regulated environment. This includes leading and developing a high-performing team, robust risk management, and actively contributing to the strategic direction of the Commercial Welcome Team.

Advantages for Candidates

• Impactful Leadership Role: This is a senior position offering the chance to lead a critical function that directly impacts client experience and the bank's operational success. You'll have the autonomy to shape the team and its processes.
• Career Development & Growth: The role emphasizes developing colleagues through performance objectives, feedback, and coaching, fostering a culture of continuous learning and career advancement. Opportunities to deputise for the Director of CSD also provide high-level exposure.
• Strategic Contribution: You will be involved in shaping the future of the Commercial Welcome Team, requiring commercial understanding and the ability to drive efficiency and first-class service.
• Diverse Responsibilities: The role encompasses operational leadership, risk management, process enhancement, and project delivery, offering a well-rounded and challenging experience.
• Flexible Working: The organisation champions flexible working, offering Hybrid Working and Job Share options, allowing for a better work-life balance.
• Commitment to Diversity & Inclusion: The bank has a strong focus on diversity, equity, and inclusion, with initiatives and support systems in place to ensure an inclusive environment where everyone can thrive. They are a Disability Confident Leader, guaranteeing interviews for eligible candidates with disabilities.
• Comprehensive Benefits Package: Candidates can expect a competitive salary (starting from £65,000+), a generous pension contribution (up to 15%), annual performance-related bonuses, share schemes, and a wide array of lifestyle and wellbeing benefits including 30 days' holiday plus bank holidays and extensive parental leave.

Key Considerations for Candidates

• Regulatory & Risk Acumen: A strong understanding of operating within a regulated environment and a solid grasp of risk management frameworks are essential. Experience with AML/KYC requirements is highly desirable.
• Operational Leadership Experience: Proven experience in leading operational or call centre teams to high performance is a prerequisite.
• Commercial Judgement: The ability to assess and manage issues impacting various stakeholders (customers, colleagues, shareholders) with sound commercial judgment is crucial.
• Process Improvement & Change Management: Candidates should be adept at identifying process enhancements, implementing solutions, and integrating change initiatives into business operations.
• Client-Centric Approach: The role demands a focus on delivering exceptional client experiences, requiring an understanding of customer needs and the ability to anticipate and meet them.
• Hybrid Working Expectation: While flexible, the hybrid model requires a commitment of at least two days per week or 40% of time spent in one of the office sites.

This Associate Director position offers a compelling opportunity for a seasoned leader to make a substantial impact within a dynamic and forward-thinking financial institution. If you possess strong operational leadership skills, a deep understanding of regulated environments, and a passion for client service, this role could be a significant step in your career trajectory.