Operations Assistant (IFA Firm)

Bury Area – Onsite parking

Salary around £30,000

About the Role

NJR Recruitment are working in Partnership with a Chartered Firm of Independent Financial Planners who are seeking a highly organised and detail-oriented Operations Assistant to support the smooth day-to-day running of their Independent Financial Adviser (IFA) firm. This role is key to ensuring efficient back-office operations (Intelligent Office), supporting advisers, and maintaining high standards of client service and regulatory compliance.

Key Responsibilities

• Provide operational support to the team, ensuring smooth day-to-day back-office function

• Maintain and manage the back-office system (IO), ensuring data accuracy, integrity, and effective utilisation across the business

• Produce and distribute weekly Management Information (MI), analysing data to identify trends, gaps, and opportunities for improvement

• Monitor workflows and pipelines to ensure cases progress within agreed SLAs and operational targets

• Ensure adherence to internal processes and procedures, identifying and addressing inconsistencies or training needs across the team

• Support compliance activities, including file checks, audit preparation, and document management in line with regulatory requirements

• Research and evaluate enhancements to back-office systems and third-party software, recommending improvements where appropriate

• Explore and assess AI tools and automation opportunities to streamline workflows, improve efficiency, and reduce manual processing

• Contribute to continuous improvement initiatives, identifying inefficiencies and supporting the implementation of better processes

• Assist with general office operations and provide support on ad hoc operational projects

Key Skills & Experience

• Strong IT proficiency with the ability to quickly learn and navigate back-office systems, platforms, and Microsoft Office applications

• Passion for technology, operational improvement, and identifying smarter ways of working

• Interest in AI tools, automation, and digital efficiencies within financial services operations

• Excellent organisational skills with the ability to manage multiple tasks and priorities effectively

• Strong attention to detail and commitment to maintaining accurate records and data integrity

• Analytical mindset with the ability to produce and interpret Management Information (MI) and operational reporting

• Good understanding of financial services administration processes, including pensions, investments, and protection business

• Experience using CRM/back-office systems (such as IO or similar platforms) desirable

• Ability to follow and enforce processes and procedures consistently and professionally

• Strong communication skills, both written and verbal, with confidence liaising with advisers, providers, and third parties

• Proactive and solution-oriented approach with the ability to identify inefficiencies and suggest improvements

• Ability to work independently while also collaborating effectively within a team environment

• High level of professionalism, discretion, and commitment to delivering excellent service standards

• Knowledge of compliance requirements, AML/KYC procedures, and FCA-regulated environments advantageous

• Adaptable and willing to take ownership of operational responsibilities and ongoing process improvements

What We Offer

" Competitive salary and benefits package

" Opportunities for professional development and industry qualifications (e.g., CII)

" Supportive and collaborative working environment

" Career progression within a growing IFA firm

NJR16662

PLEASE NOTE – Due to the volume of applications received, we can only consider those who come from an IFA Firm or Provider background, offering the relevant experience as outlined in the below advert *