Head of Data Operations

Job Role: 
Lead and scale Data Maintenance Europe, owning people leadership, operational excellence, and delivery of high-quality structured product reference data and documentation for German and European markets. 

Job brief: 
The Head of Data Operations will oversee the end-to-end operation of Data Maintenance Europe, combining team leadership, project ownership, and process optimization to deliver timely, accurate, and compliant product master data and documents for structured financial products across Europe. The role partners closely with Product, Technology, Client Services, and Compliance to meet Quality Level Agreements, run continuous improvements, and provide client-facing support where needed. Success requires deep knowledge of European structured products, robust data governance and QA practices, and experience running ticket-driven operations at scale. 

Key Responsibilities:

• Manage and grow the Data Maintenance Europe team, including hiring, coaching, and performance.
• Align operations with strategic data goals; identify automation and scalability opportunities.
• Lead projects from planning to execution and reporting.
• Ensure accurate and timely capture of structured product data (e.g., certificates, warrants).
• Maintain and enforce Quality Level Agreements (QLAs) and KPIs.
• Optimize ticketing workflows and client support processes.
• Implement QA controls and ensure regulatory compliance.
• Collaborate with Engineering and Product teams to automate and enhance data processes.
• Act as escalation point for client issues and maintain operational documentation.
• Report performance and risks to senior leadership.
• Foster global collaboration across regions.

Requirements:

• Proven leadership in financial data operations, especially in European structured products.
• Deep product knowledge (certificates, warrants) and data governance expertise.
• Experience with data models (e.g., DerivateXXL, IBT/IBE, PRIIP/EMT) and ticket-driven environments.
• Strong analytical, documentation, and project management skills.
• Fluent in English and German; degree in Finance, Economics, or related field.

Preferred:

• Experience with market data vendors and European exchanges.
• Familiarity with data transformation and validation workflows.

What We Offer:

• High-impact role with visibility to senior leadership and top-tier clients.
• International, collaborative environment with growth opportunities.
• Domain expertise in European structured products.

WSD is an employer that values diversity. We highly encourage applications from appropriately qualified and eligible candidates irrespective of age, race, religion, national origin, gender, sexual orientation, gender identity and/or expression, veteran status, disability, or any other status protected by applicable law.