Description
CASS Assurance Specialist
Duties
To support the CASS Oversight Manager with timely and comprehensive analysis and reporting of Cofunds Ltd processes and controls to ensure that these are compliant with the Client Assets Source Book (CASS).
The above objective includes:
Conduct reviews of processes, incidents and breaches by investigating processes and controls that are designed to achieve compliance with the FCA's CASS rules.
Ensure corrective actions identified as a result of reviews are fully completed and effectively embedding into the relevant operational team's processes.
Prepare regular management information on key CASS risk areas, processes and controls.
Perform regular thematic reviews and dip testing across Cofunds CASS-impacted products including those outsourced to Syntel and provide constructive feedback and actions.
Advise business areas regarding the interpretation and application of CASS requirements. Review updates to business processes, standards and policy documentation.
Assist with the delivery of the training programme for CASS and monitor the status of completion of the training.
Skills & Experience
Industry knowledge
IOC - Introduction to Securities and Investment module - The Chartered Institute for Securities & Investment.
Regulatory knowledge
IOC - UK Financial Regulation - The Chartered Institute for Securities & Investment.
IOC - Client Money and Assets - The Chartered Institute for Securities & Investment.
Knowledge, regulatory knowledge and knowledge relevant to the role
IOC - Administration of settlement and investments - The Chartered Institute for Securities & Investment.
Experience of working in an internal audit/compliance monitoring role
Knowledge:
Operational features of Funds Platforms and CASS reconciliations
Collective investment scheme operations, including OEICs, ISAs, Unit Trusts and Self Investment Personal Pensions (SIPPs).
Knowledge of CASS rules.
Skills & Experience:
Experience of Compliance or Assurance reviews, review disciplines and experience of effecting change.
Report writing and analysis
Excellent report writing skills
Ability to analyse operational processes and identify weaknesses and required remediation actions.
Ability to work under time pressure and provide high quality reports to senior management.
Personal Effectiveness
Approach is credible and recommendations are practical.
Ability to manage time and prioritise tasks to meet timescales.
Ability to work effectively as a team member. Agree clear goals and define tasks, monitor progress to achieve timely and high-quality results.
Ability to lead and influence others.
Work effectively as a senior member of the CASS Oversight team.
Willing to be flexible in working pattern to ensure that deadlines are achieved.
Communication
Deliver clear and concise written or verbal reports.
Adapt personal style and approach to suit the needs of the audience.
Cooperate with business areas to ensure outcomes are constructive and positive.
Influence
Using logical arguments, and strong analysis of desired outcomes, challenge peers and Directors.
Negotiate satisfactory outcomes.
Make objectives, aims, timescales and required deliveries clear to all involved.
Seek input from all relevant parties to assist in decision making.
Balance risk and rewards to assess the consequences of a decision.