The Books and Records Oversight team within Markets Operations primary objective is to strengthen the books and records discipline and control framework within Markets Operations. The function has been recently created within Markets Operations to drive remediation efforts and the adoption of strong accounting practices as part of firm-wide policies and programs.
The candidate requires solid accounting and financial background combined with a good understanding of operational processes and will lead Markets Operations’ engagement with the Finance department and at firm-wide forums on accounting related matters. Other objectives will be to 1) develop robust quality control around balance sheet substantiation for accounts owned by Markets Operations and 2) work with the Markets Operations’ leadership team to develop strong books and records / accounting knowledge across Markets Operations via the deployment of training and standards.
Markets Operations is a global organization with a presence in over 60 Countries, covering post execution capabilities spanning product aligned Middle Office groups, Settlements, Margin, Asset Servicing, Listed Derivative & Commodities Operations. We support an extensive range of products and services including Fixed Income, Equity, Commodities and Syndicates. We are part-way through a multi-year journey to deliver a future state of Operations, encompassing end to end target operating model, controls design and uplift, technology transformation, data and process re-engineering.

QUALIFICATIONS:

• 7-10+ years of relevant experience in financial accounting and operational aspects of books and records management
• Finance background/degree and experience working with Technology on product development, UAT, and collaborating with Finance/Market Operations teams
• Strong understanding of financial products and ability to assess situations accurately and take appropriate action
• Ability to articulate how risk technology supports the business and identify gaps between current technology and business needs
• Ability to assess the impact of stress shocks, including fat-tailed risks
• Strong leadership skills, ability to serve as an escalation point, and decisive decision-making in high-risk scenarios
• Adaptability, creative problem-solving, and sound judgment
• Experience managing operational risk capital in partnership with the business, Finance, and Risk
• Excellent communication, active listening, and mentoring skills
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MOST RELEVANT SKILLS

Accounting Processes and Financial Controls, Assessment, Constructive Debate, Financial Accounting, Financial Reporting, Management Reporting, Policy and Regulation, Portfolio Analysis, Product Knowledge, Risk Management.
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OTHER RELEVANT SKILLS

For complementary skills, please see above and/or contact the recruiter.
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• Control Framework Enhancement: Develop and implement robust quality controls for balance sheet substantiation and enhance books and records/accounting knowledge across Markets Operations through training and standards.
• Operational Oversight: Collaborate with line Operations teams to ensure effective metrics and controls, regularly reviewing and updating them. Work with Finance to ensure complete balance sheet substantiation and effective control design. Bridge the gap between cash movements and their recording on Citi’s books. Oversee account owner activity across Markets Operations, including chart of accounts maintenance, consistent roles and responsibilities, and reconciliation requirements. Address exceptions and breaks, ensuring timely escalation, root cause analysis, and cross-functional learning. Oversee reserve calculations, identify opportunities to reduce aged exceptions and reserves, and standardize and centralize proofing processes.
• Cross-Functional Partnership: Collaborate with Finance and Operations Risk & Control to ensure compliance with policies and standards. Partner with Balance Sheet Control and risk reporting for accurate and timely exception reporting. Work with the Front Office to ensure robust upstream data and processes. Promote consistency and common standards with Centralized Operations.
• Continuous Improvement: Collaborate with Technology to build a standardized mechanism for accruing and paying/receiving interest between internal desks/accounts. Implement best practices for compliant and effective reconciliations. Promote the development and retention of account and reconciliation subject matter experts. Strengthen issue management and escalate emerging risks appropriately. Lead Markets Operations’ involvement in firm-wide accounting and books and records programs (e.g., Strategic Ledger) and represent the team in governance forums.