Operations Associate - Cost Basis

As an Operations Associate - Cost Basis at Stifel, your primary responsibilities include accurately processing and entering data into our systems, collaborating with your team to achieve departmental objectives, and identifying and escalating potential issues to leadership when necessary. You will also be responsible for providing regular updates on job progression while developing effective communication within the department. Your role is crucial for supporting our Financial Advisors and ensuring a seamless operational flow.

To qualify for the Operations Associate - Cost Basis role at Stifel, candidates should possess a Bachelor’s degree or equivalent experience, along with 0-2 years of professional business-related experience. A strong attention to detail, ability to manage large workloads, and a general understanding of industry rules and regulations are essential. Proficiency in Microsoft Office products is also necessary to perform job duties effectively.

Stifel places a strong emphasis on developing talent and supports the career growth of Operations Associates by providing an entrepreneurial environment. This includes offering comprehensive training programs, mentorship opportunities, and access to a variety of resources designed to enhance skills and knowledge. The company’s commitment to innovation and professional development ensures that you will have ample opportunities to advance your career within the firm.

The work environment for an Operations Associate - Cost Basis at Stifel is collaborative and team-oriented. Employees are encouraged to communicate openly and share their insights. Stifel fosters a culture of inclusion where every individual contributes to the success of the firm and its clients. You’ll be part of a dynamic team that values cooperation and supports one another in meeting departmental objectives.

In the Operations Associate - Cost Basis role at Stifel, you will use various technology platforms and systems for data processing and analysis. Proficiency in Microsoft Office products, including Outlook, is crucial, as it will be used daily for communication and documentation. Additionally, you'll interact with proprietary software used for reconciling data and managing accounts, which are pivotal to your responsibilities.

When answering this question, highlight your interest in the financial services industry and your appreciation for Stifel's culture of inclusion and innovation. Discuss your desire to contribute positively to a team and how your career goals align with the opportunity to support Financial Advisors.

Share a specific example that demonstrates your teamwork skills. Describe the challenge your team faced, the roles each member played, and how your contributions led to achieving a common goal. Emphasize communication and collaboration as key components.

Outline your approach to task prioritization, emphasizing organization and time management skills. Mention tools you might use, like to-do lists or software, while stressing your ability to adapt when priorities shift due to workload changes.

Explain your attention to detail and the methods you utilize to minimize errors. Perhaps mention double-checking your work, using checklists, or how feedback from peers has helped you improve your accuracy over time.

Discuss the importance of proactive communication. Explain how you would assess the issue, gather relevant information, and present it to your department leadership in a constructive manner, demonstrating your commitment to problem-solving.

Demonstrate your insight into Stifel’s commitment to client-centric service and inclusion. Discuss how these values resonate with you and how you would apply them in your role as an Operations Associate.

Provide an overview of your data entry experience, including types of data you have managed and the systems you have used. Emphasize any relevant tools or software that relate to the position.

Express your view on feedback as an opportunity for growth. Share an example of a time you received constructive criticism and how you used it to improve your performance or to positively adjust your work habits.

Describe the resources you use to stay informed about industry regulations, such as professional development courses, industry publications, and networking with knowledgeable colleagues. Emphasize your commitment to continuous learning.

Outline key qualities such as attention to detail, strong communication skills, the ability to collaborate effectively, and a proactive approach to problem-solving. Discuss why each is vital for success in this role at Stifel.