"Gift Securities Operations Manager"

OVERVIEW

The expected pay range for this position is $120,276 to $135,000 per annum.

Stanford University provides pay ranges representing its good faith estimate of the salary or hourly wage the university reasonably expects to pay for a position upon hire. The pay offered to a selected candidate will be determined based on factors such as (but not limited to) the scope and responsibilities of the position, the qualifications of the selected candidate, departmental budget availability, internal equity, geographic location, and external market pay for comparable jobs. At Stanford University, base pay represents only one aspect of the comprehensive rewards package.

At Stanford University, base pay represents only one aspect of the comprehensive rewards package. The Cardinal at Work website provides detailed information on Stanford’s extensive range of benefits and rewards offered to employees. Specifics about the rewards package for this position may be discussed during the hiring process.

Introduction

Stanford University seeks people committed to excellence and to improving our world and, in turn, is dedicated to supporting its employees as they develop their careers and enrich their lives.

Stanford’s Business Affairs provides administrative policies, infrastructure, systems, services, and support for the benefit of the university community.

Financial Management Services (FMS), a department within Business Affairs, is responsible for creating an ecosystem which promotes innovative and sound financial administration policies and practices that balance controls, compliance, and customer service. FMS is primarily responsible for financial policy oversight, quality assurance and financial services at Stanford University and its affiliated entities. It also serves as a liaison to the hospitals and the Stanford Linear Accelerator Center (SLAC). The FMS work environment is grounded by core values that include cultivating growth, celebration and appreciation, and collaborating with curiosity in order to nurture an inclusive environment where everyone is valued, respected, and can thrive.

About Our Team: Gift Securities Operations

The Gift Securities Operations team is a vital partner in Stanford's philanthropic mission. We are the operational engine that ensures the seamless and secure management of complex gift securities. We are looking for a proven leader to enhance our capabilities and guide a team dedicated to operational excellence.

• Our Mission: To manage complex gift securities with operational excellence, creating a seamless and fulfilling giving experience for every donor.
• Our Vision: To define the future of philanthropic operations, leading the industry through innovative execution, compassionate partnership, and unwavering integrity.

POSITION SUMMARY

The Gift Securities Operations Manager is a key leadership role, central to our mission of delivering seamless and secure philanthropic service. Reporting to the Director, this manager provides daily leadership and operational oversight for the Gift Securities Operation program. As a key partner, the manager is expected to represent the department and act in the Director’s stead as needed.

The core focus of the role is leading a team of associates and analysts in the end-to-end management of publicly traded assets, including US equities, mutual funds, and securities on foreign exchanges. More than a supervisor, this role is a coach, process architect, and champion for excellence, responsible for fostering a culture of high judgment, precise communication, and relentless process improvement.

In partnership with the Director, the manager will also gain exposure to highly complex assets, such as private equity and cryptocurrency, by managing their documentation and submission processes. This is a unique opportunity to shape a critical university function and lead a team dedicated to operational greatness.

Your Core Responsibilities Will Include:

Team Leadership & Development:

• Lead, coach, and mentor a small, specialized team of operations associates and analysts, with responsibility for performance management and career development. This role provides critical input and feedback on all hiring decisions to the Director.
• Champion a culture of precision and professionalism in all internal and external communications, ensuring the team represents the high standards of Stanford.
• Foster a collaborative environment focused on problem-solving, accountability, and continuous learning.

Operational Management & Process Improvement:

• Oversee the day-to-day operations of the Gift Securities team, managing the end-to-end workflow to ensure gift assets are liquidated and processed accurately, securely, and on schedule.
• Proactively analyze business processes to identify opportunities for improvement; design and propose solutions to enhance efficiency and mitigate risk; and collaborate with the Director to prioritize and implement them.
• Serve as the primary subject matter expert for gift securities operations, resolving complex issues and providing alternative solutions as necessary.
• Analyze operational data and trends to advise leadership and develop recommendations for staffing, technology, and administrative functions.
• Analyze operational data and prepare management reports for the Director to support strategic decision-making and provide visibility into team performance.
• May independently or in collaboration with human resources managers, guide analysts/associates in the interpretation and implementation of human resources policies, procedures and programs.

Stakeholder Partnership & Communication:

• Serve as the primary operational liaison for publicly traded assets, managing relationships with Development Officers, brokerage partners, the Charitable Trust program, and donors to ensure a seamless gift experience.
• Partner with the Director by coordinating documentation and communication flows for highly complex gifts, engaging with stakeholders such as the Office of Planned Giving and investment attorneys as needed.
• Represent the program's business operations within the organization and to external constituencies, building and maintaining strong professional partnerships.
• Serve as a resource to resolve accounting-related issues and ensure clear communication with local units and other departments.

Risk Management & Compliance:

• Interpret, implement, and ensure compliance with university administrative policies, industry regulations, and data security protocols.
• Partner with the Director to review non-public gift documentation, offering documents, and investment agreements to ensure proper application of terms and risk mitigation.
• Identify gaps and recommend internal policies and guidelines to strengthen controls; collaborate with the Director and other university partners to develop and implement approved changes.

Note: Not all unique aspects of the job are covered by this job description

MINIMUM REQUIREMENTS

Education & Experience:

• Bachelor’s degree and four years of relevant experience in administrative, financial, or operational management, or a combination of education and relevant experience.

Knowledge, Skills and Abilities:

• Demonstrated Supervisory Skills: Proven ability to lead, coach, and motivate a team, including conflict resolution and career development.
• Impeccable Judgment: A track record of making sound business decisions, especially concerning risk management, data security, and donor confidentiality.
• Exceptional Communication Skills: The ability to convey complex information with clarity, precision, and professionalism suitable for a high-caliber audience of alumni, donors, and financial professionals.
• Operational & Analytical Mindset: Excellent planning and organizational skills with a passion for process improvement. Strong ability to analyze complex problems and develop innovative solutions.
• Financial Acumen: A broad understanding of investment products, complex financial instruments, and the fundamentals of investment operations or custody environments. Knowledge of accounting principles is a strong plus.
• Effective Interpersonal Skills: A collaborative nature with the ability to build strong working relationships with colleagues, clients, and external partners.
• Proficiency with Technology: Strong expertise in business applications such as Microsoft Office (especially Excel) and Google Suite, with the ability to quickly learn new systems like Oracle.

In Addition, Preferred Qualifications Include:

• 3-5 years of experience in brokerage back-office operations or a related financial services field.
• Experience working in a university or non-profit environment.
• Demonstrated project management skills and experience as part of a project team.
• A strong customer-oriented approach to managing solutions and partnerships.

Certifications and Licenses:

None

PHYSICAL REQUIREMENTS*

• Constantly perform desk-based computer tasks.
• Frequently sitting.
• Occasionally stand/walk, reach/work above shoulders, use a telephone, writing by hand, lift/carry/push/pull objects that weigh up to 10 pounds;
• Rarely twist/bend/stoop/squat, sort/file paperwork or parts, lift/carry/push/pull objects that weigh 11-20 pounds.

* - Consistent with its obligations under the law, the University will provide reasonable accommodation to any employee with a disability who requires accommodation to perform the essential functions of the job.

WORKING CONDITIONS:

May work extended hours and require increased on-site presence during peak business cycles.