Product Development Manager, Aviva

This review provides insights into the Product Development Manager role, focusing on what makes it an attractive opportunity for career advancement and the key considerations for potential candidates.

Product Development Manager - Public Markets: An Opportunity for Strategic Impact

This Product Development Manager position presents a compelling opportunity for experienced professionals looking to make a significant impact within the public markets investment space. The role is strategically positioned within a global product team responsible for the entire lifecycle of investment products, from initial strategy to ongoing management. For candidates with a passion for innovation and a proven track record in regulated product development, this role offers a chance to shape the future of investment strategies.

Advantages for Potential Candidates:

• End-to-End Product Ownership: You will have the chance to lead the full lifecycle of designing and launching regulated public markets funds. This includes crucial stages like conducting feasibility assessments, securing governance approvals, and managing the complex legal and operational delivery of new funds.
• Strategic Innovation: The role is at the forefront of exciting innovation within the industry, with specific opportunities to contribute to areas such as fund tokenisation and the active exchange-traded fund (ETF) space. This is an ideal platform for those seeking to be part of cutting-edge developments.
• Cross-Functional Collaboration: As a central point of contact, you will engage with a diverse range of stakeholders including client-facing distribution teams, front office, legal, compliance, operations, and finance. This offers invaluable experience in navigating and influencing across different departments.
• Career Growth in Regulated Markets: With a focus on launching new regulated investment products into the UK and/or European markets, this role provides deep expertise and a strong track record in a highly specialized and dynamic field.
• Comprehensive Benefits Package: The company offers a generous benefits package designed to support employees both professionally and personally. This includes a competitive pension scheme, annual performance bonus eligibility, family-friendly leave, generous holiday entitlement with flexible options, discounts on company products, private medical insurance, and various share plans.
• Commitment to Inclusivity and Flexibility: The organization actively promotes an inclusive environment and welcomes applications from all backgrounds. They also embrace flexible working patterns, including part-time and job-sharing, and encourage a hybrid working model that balances in-office collaboration with remote flexibility.

Key Considerations for Candidates:

• Location Specificity: It is essential to note that this position is strictly based in London, which will be the contractual location. Candidates who cannot relocate to or work in London should not consider this opportunity.
• Proven Product Launch Expertise: The role requires a demonstrable track record of successfully developing and launching regulated products, particularly within the UK and cross-border UCITS landscape. Candidates should be prepared to showcase their experience in this area.
• Technical and Regulatory Knowledge: A strong understanding of regulatory frameworks and product technicalities within Public Markets across various asset classes (fixed income, equities, multi-asset) is crucial. While not strictly mandatory, relevant qualifications like the Investment Management Certificate (IMC) or equivalent are advantageous.
• Strong Communication and Project Management Skills: The ability to effectively translate complex technical information to non-technical audiences, coupled with robust verbal and written communication skills, is vital. Excellent project management capabilities are also paramount to successfully delivering complex initiatives.
• Adaptability in a Dynamic Environment: The role operates within a dynamic, cross-functional environment. Candidates who thrive in fast-paced settings and can effectively manage multiple priorities will be well-suited for this position.

This Product Development Manager role offers a significant platform for a skilled and ambitious professional to contribute to the growth and innovation of a leading financial institution. By understanding the advantages and key considerations outlined above, candidates can make an informed decision about how this opportunity aligns with their career aspirations.