About the role
The Vice President of Launch Operations is responsible for leading the end-to-end operational execution of ETF launches in a fast-paced, high-volume environment. This role serves as the central point of accountability across internal teams, clients, and third-party service providers, ensuring launches are delivered on time, accurately, and with a best-in-class client experience. The ideal candidate is exceptionally organized, highly adaptable, a clear communicator under pressure, and thrives in managing multiple concurrent launches with shifting priorities.
What you'll do
Launch & Project Execution
- Own and manage complex, overlapping ETF launch timelines, ensuring all regulatory and operational deadlines are met across a high volume of active launches.
- Develop, maintain, and continuously refine detailed project plans, milestones, and launch documentation, clearly communicating requirements and expectations to all stakeholders.
- Coordinate seamlessly with internal teams, as well as external partners such as custodians, administrators, exchanges, and other vendors.
- Drive meeting cadence across multiple workstreams; set agendas, lead discussions, document decisions, track action items, and ensure timely follow-through in coordination with the Client Success Manager.
- Ensure all internal and external setup requirements are completed accurately and efficiently prior to launch, proactively identifying gaps before they become blockers.
Client Leadership & Communication
- Serve as the primary client-facing leader in coordination with the Client Success Manager for launch operations, confidently managing real-time communications and navigating complex or time-sensitive inquiries.
- Lead client kickoff calls and ongoing internal and external working sessions, aligning all parties on scope, timelines, responsibilities, and next steps.
- Clearly articulate the ETF launch process to clients, adjusting communication style and level of detail to meet varying levels of sophistication.
- Act as a trusted advisor to clients throughout the launch lifecycle, building durable relationships and reinforcing confidence in execution.
- Escalate issues thoughtfully and decisively when required, balancing urgency with clarity and professionalism.
- Build and maintain strong, trusted relationships with strategic partners and third-party service providers, including administrators, custodians, exchanges, and other key vendors, ensuring alignment, accountability, and seamless execution throughout the launch process.
Documentation, Data & Reporting
- Maintain comprehensive launch documentation, operational checklists, and supporting materials across all active projects.
- Compile, validate, and coordinate fund data across internal teams and external service providers to ensure accuracy and readiness.
- Act as a central point of contact for ETF launch status, updates, and inquiries for both internal stakeholders and external partners.
- Prepare clear, concise progress reports and executive-level status updates for senior management.
Risk Management & Process Improvement
- Anticipate and identify operational risks, bottlenecks, or dependencies that could impact launch timelines or quality.
- Troubleshoot and resolve issues quickly as they arise, maintaining momentum across parallel launches.
- Continuously assess and enhance launch workflows, controls, and documentation to reduce risk, improve scalability, and support the evolution of a best-in-class onboarding and launch platform.
- Bring structure to ambiguity, flexing priorities and resources as client needs, market conditions, or regulatory requirements evolve.
-
Qualifications
Education:
- Bachelor’s degree in Finance, Business Administration, Economics, or a related field.
Experience:
- 5-7 years of experience in project coordination, operations, or a similar role in financial services.
- Exposure to ETFs, mutual funds, or investment company operations.
Skills:
- Exceptional organizational skills and attention to detail, with the ability to manage a high volume of concurrent ETF launches.
- Proven ability to prioritize, adapt, and deliver results in a fast-paced, deadline-driven environment.
- Strong understanding of ETF operational workflows and cross-functional dependencies.
- Advanced proficiency in Microsoft Office Suite (Excel, Word, PowerPoint); experience with project management tools preferred.
- Excellent written and verbal communication skills, with the ability to engage effectively with senior stakeholders, clients, and cross-functional teams.
- Strong relationship-building skills and the ability to lead calmly and decisively under pressure.