This review provides an in-depth look at the ETF Capital Markets Manager position, designed to help prospective candidates understand the exciting opportunities and key considerations involved in this role. We aim to guide you in assessing how this position aligns with your career aspirations within the dynamic world of exchange-traded funds.
About the Opportunity: A Strategic Role in ETF Growth
This is a permanent position, offering stability and the chance to embed yourself within a forward-thinking financial institution. The role is situated in the heart of London's financial district at Cannon Street, reporting to the Associate Director of ETF Capital Markets. What makes this opportunity particularly compelling is its placement within a strategic growth area for the firm. You'll be joining an Indexing and Exchange Traded Fund (ETF) business that is a key priority for evolving the company's product offering and client capabilities. This is a rare chance to be instrumental in the development of a high-profile new business, backed by the considerable resources and financial strength of a well-established global asset manager.
Key Advantages for Candidates:
- Impactful Contribution: You will have a direct and significant impact on the development and expansion of the ETF offering. This isn't just about managing existing operations; it's about shaping the future of the ETF business.
- Growth Environment: The role is within a business unit identified as a strategic priority, offering ample opportunities for professional development and advancement as the ETF platform grows.
- Established Backing: You'll benefit from the stability, resources, and reputation of a leading asset manager, providing a solid foundation for your work and career.
- Collaborative Culture: The company emphasizes a collaborative, supportive, and inclusive culture. They are proud of their diverse workforce and encourage applications from all backgrounds, promoting an environment where everyone can thrive.
- Flexibility: As a flexible employer, they trust their people to manage their roles effectively, allowing for a healthy work-life balance.
- Disability-Friendly Approach: They are committed to being a disability-friendly employer and welcome conversations about reasonable adjustments to support candidates throughout the recruitment process and in their role.
What the Role Entails:
As the ETF Capital Markets Manager, you will be the central point of contact for all counterparties involved in the day-to-day management of ETFs. This includes liaising with liquidity providers, portfolio managers, operations, and back-office teams for both primary and secondary market ETF activities. A core part of your responsibility will be to support the expansion of the ETF offering through the introduction of new products and the enhancement of the existing range. This requires a deep understanding of the FIL ETF product suite and platform to ensure seamless information flow to partners.
Key Responsibilities include:
- Proactively managing and developing the ETF Capital Markets function to ensure efficient trading and execution.
- Collaborating with ETF Investment Managers and operational teams to maintain a robust primary market framework.
- Identifying and implementing process efficiencies and improvements.
- Contributing to strategic ETF platform discussions to ensure best-in-class primary market processes.
- Leading the onboarding of Authorized Participants (APs) and fostering strong relationships with third-party partners.
- Overseeing primary market activity and ensuring efficient trading of Fidelity ETFs by working closely with APs, market makers, and brokers.
- Monitoring trading activity, spreads, and volumes, and developing analytical tools.
- Providing pre-trade reporting and liquidity analysis to support distribution and client engagements.
- Reviewing exchange listing strategies.
- Becoming a Subject Matter Expert (SME) on FIL ETF products and competitor landscapes, translating insights into new product analysis.
- Demonstrating initiative, creativity, and expertise in problem-solving and identifying opportunities.
- Acting as an internal and external advocate for the Fidelity ETF proposition.
Key Considerations for Candidates:
- Essential Experience: Previous experience within the ETF industry is a prerequisite. Experience in an ETF Capital Markets role or a related operations/trading function is highly preferred.
- Self-Starter Mentality: The role demands a natural self-starter with a strong commitment to developing and growing a new business area.
- Technical Acumen & Communication: A keen attention to detail and a willingness to become a technical expert are vital. Crucially, you must be able to effectively communicate this knowledge to a diverse audience.
- Relationship Management: The ability to develop and maintain positive relationships with external industry contacts is paramount for success in this role.
- Product Knowledge: While knowledge of index-based and active investment strategies is an advantage, a strong grasp of the FIL ETF product range and platform is essential.
- Technical Proficiency: Proficiency in Bloomberg and Microsoft Office, particularly Excel, is required. An IMC qualification is also essential.
- Team Fit: You should be a team player who can integrate well within FIL's overall culture, embracing an entrepreneurial yet collaborative style.
- Regulatory Awareness: As this role is involved in regulated financial activities, candidates must be aware of and adhere to relevant regulations, including the FCA's Individual Conduct Rules (COCON). Training will be provided.
Career Path Guidance:
This role offers a fantastic platform for professionals looking to specialize and grow within the ETF sector. By taking ownership of the ETF Capital Markets function, you'll gain invaluable experience in product development, market operations, and strategic partnership management. Your success in this role could lead to further leadership opportunities within the expanding ETF business or broader capital markets functions within the firm. The emphasis on analytical skills and strategic input also positions you well for roles that involve market intelligence, product strategy, and business development.
If you are an ambitious, detail-oriented individual with a passion for ETFs and a desire to make a tangible impact within a leading financial institution, this ETF Capital Markets Manager position presents a compelling opportunity for your career progression.