What are the responsibilities and job description for the Vice President of Services Operations position at SEI?
WHAT WE DO
The VP of Services Operations is responsible for leading SEI’s Shared Services functions, ensuring the company’s internal infrastructure supports business success. This role reports directly to the CEO, serving as a trusted advisor on corporate operations, strategic initiatives, and company growth. This role is local to Cincinnati, OH, and not eligible to be remote.
The VP will motivate, inspire and oversee Human Resources, Administration, Technology, and Talent teams, ensuring they operate efficiently and align with SEI’s business objectives and company culture. This role will work alongside leadership in Finance, Marketing, Revenue Operations, as well as support outside vendor management, such as insurance brokers, legal counsel, and service providers. This role requires a balance of operational execution and strategic vision, focusing on process improvement, governance, risk management, and executive partnership.
Key Focus Areas:
- Shared Services Leadership – Oversee core operational teams, ensuring seamless internal support.
- Operational Efficiency & Process Improvement – Drive innovation, streamline processes, and implement best practices.
- Governance & Risk Management – Ensure compliance, mitigate risks, and uphold internal controls.
- Cross-Functional Collaboration – Partner with Local Office Managing Directors (MDs) and executives to align operations with business goals.
- Strategic Execution – Work closely with the CEO to execute strategic initiatives that enhance operational effectiveness.
- Budget & Resource Management – Assist with Shared Services departmental budgeting
THE IDEAL CANDIDATE WILL HAVE:
Operational Leadership & Shared Services Expertise
- Experience leading cross-functional corporate services teams (HR, Legal, Admin, Talent, Technology).
- Proven ability to optimize processes, drive operational efficiency, and implement best practices.
- Ability to translate business objectives into effective operational strategies.
Strategic Thinking & Executive Collaboration
- Experience working directly with CEOs and executive leadership on corporate initiatives.
- Strong ability to align Shared Services functions with company vision and business goals.
- Track record of driving organizational improvements while maintaining day-to-day operational excellence.
Governance, Compliance & Risk Management
- Understanding of corporate governance, legal compliance, and risk management principles.
- Ability to implement internal controls, policies, and frameworks that ensure ethical and responsible operations.
- Experience working with Legal, HR, and IT teams to maintain compliance standards.
Relationship Building & Cross-Functional Collaboration
- Skilled at working across departments, leadership levels, and business units to drive alignment.
- Strong communication and stakeholder management skills, ensuring transparency and trust.
- Proven ability to understand business needs and translate them into effective operational solutions.
QUALIFICATIONS
Required:
- Bachelor’s degree in Business Administration, Management, or a related field (MBA or equivalent preferred).
- 10 years of experience in operations, corporate services, or a related executive leadership role.
- Direct operational management experience overseeing one or more corporate functions, including HR, Legal, Administration, Talent, or Technology.
- Strong understanding of financial oversight, budgeting, and employment law.
- Proven C-suite partnership experience, working closely with CEOs, boards, and senior executives.
- Experience leading cross-functional teams and scaling operational functions.
- Strong track record of problem-solving, governance, and risk management.
- Experience working in-market with local offices and clients where required.
- Proven experience in organizational transformation, including optimizing corporate functions and leading large-scale change initiatives.
- Authorization for permanent employment in the United States (this position is not eligible for immigration sponsorship).
Preferred:
- Background in corporate governance, compliance, or risk management.
- Experience in technology-driven process improvement and automation.
- Consulting or professional services industry experience.
WHY SEI?
A career at SEI extends beyond day-to-day operations—this is an opportunity to lead, innovate, and drive impact at a company that values collaboration and long-term success. The VP of Services Operations plays a critical role in shaping SEI’s internal infrastructure, ensuring our people and business leaders have the support they need to succeed.
This role provides a seat at the table with executive leadership and a pathway to further executive growth, making it an ideal opportunity for someone looking to drive meaningful change and elevate operational excellence at SEI.