Operations Associate

Firm OverviewGhaf Benefits, a platform launched by Lunate, is the UAE’s Alternative End-of-Service Benefits solution. It enables private sector employers to invest employee gratuities into regulated investment funds, offering employees the potential for long-term financial growth. The platform supports the UAE’s vision to enhance workplace benefits and attract global talent, offering both conventional and Shariah-compliant investment options.Role Overview The Associate, Operations reports to the Manager, Operations and supports the day-to-day operational delivery of Ghaf Benefits. The role is responsible for completing and coordinating core operational activities across employer and employee onboarding, transaction processing, reconciliations, data management, reporting, service-provider coordination, and issue resolution. Working closely with internal stakeholders and external partners, the Associate helps ensure that operational processes are completed accurately, within agreed timelines, and in accordance with established procedures and controls.Key Duties and Responsibilities Support the day-to-day operations of the Ghaf Benefits platform, ensuring assigned activities are completed accurately and within agreed timelines.Coordinate operational activities relating to employer and employee onboarding, account set-up, contributions, redemptions, transfers, and ongoing servicing.Process and validate operational instructions and supporting documentation in line with approved procedures and control requirements.Perform daily and periodic reconciliations, investigate breaks or exceptions, and support their timely resolution and escalation.Maintain accurate operational data, trackers, records, and supporting documentation across relevant systems and files.Support the preparation of operational reports, management information, dashboards, and stakeholder updates.Liaise with internal teams and third-party service providers to track requests, resolve queries, and ensure completion of agreed actions.Monitor operational workflows and service requests, following up on outstanding items and escalating delays or material issues to the Manager, Operations.Respond to routine operational queries from internal stakeholders, employers, and service providers in a clear and timely manner.Support the investigation of operational incidents, data discrepancies, and processing errors, including root-cause analysis and corrective actions.Maintain and update standard operating procedures, process maps, checklists, and other operational documentation.Assist with operational readiness activities for new clients, products, investment options, system enhancements, and process changes.Participate in user testing, data validation, process-improvement, and automation initiatives led by Operations or Technology.Support audit, compliance, risk, and control reviews by providing accurate records, evidence, and process information when required.Contribute to a culture of accountability, collaboration, strong controls, and continuous improvement within the Operations function.Undertake other operational and project responsibilities assigned by the Manager, Operations or Chief Operating OfficerQualifications and ExperienceBachelor's degree in Business, Finance, Economics, Operations, Accounting, or a related field.4+ years of relevant experience in operations within retirement solutions, pensions, asset management, wealth management, banking, fund administration, or financial services.Understanding of operational processes such as onboarding, transaction processing, reconciliations, data management, reporting, and exception handling.Experience working with operational procedures, control checklists, service requests, and supporting documentation.Strong numerical, analytical, and problem-solving skills, with excellent attention to detail and accuracy.Ability to manage multiple tasks, maintain clear records, and deliver work within established deadlines.Strong written and verbal communication skills, with the confidence to coordinate effectively with internal stakeholders and external service providers.Proficiency in Microsoft Excel, PowerPoint, Word, and Outlook; experience with workflow, reporting, or financial-services platforms is advantageous.A proactive, organised, and collaborative approach, with a willingness to learn and take ownership of assigned responsibilities.Ability to identify issues, investigate exceptions, and escalate matters appropriately.Experience in a regulated or institutionally governed environment is advantageous.Professional qualifications or progress toward a relevant operations, investment, accounting, or project-management certification are advantageous but not required.