Director, Investment Specialist​/Head of Co-Manufactured Products

Position Overview

The Director, Investment Specialist/Head of Co-Manufactured Products will lead the end-to-end development and product management of innovative financial products, including proprietary products, co-manufactured target date collective investment trust funds, lifetime income and managed account solutions. The role requires expertise in multi‑asset strategies, defined contribution plans, and innovative investment solutions. The Director will collaborate closely with cross‑functional internal teams, including Sales, Marketing, Operations, Legal, Compliance, and Risk, to ensure successful product delivery.

Externally, they will be the single point of contact with Fund Partners, Fiduciary partners and third‑party trust companies. This individual will also oversee the strategic alignment of product initiatives with market trends, regulatory requirements, client needs and be accountable for the commercial success of these products.

• Product Management:
  Spearhead the ideation, design, and development of investment products, with a focus on retirement solutions, including target‑date funds, lifetime income solutions, and multi‑asset strategies. Ensure products meet client needs, market demands, and regulatory standards.
• Cross‑Functional Leadership:
  Lead and collaborate with internal teams (Sales, Marketing, Operations, Legal, Compliance, and Risk) throughout the product development lifecycle to ensure successful launch and management of new products.
• Market Research & Strategy:
  Conduct in-depth research on market trends, competitive landscape, client demands, and regulatory changes to inform product strategy, anticipate future trends, and identify growth opportunities.
• Project Management:
  Manage product development timelines, budgets, and resources, ensuring project milestones are met. Track progress, resolve issues, and keep stakeholders informed.
• Client & Consultant Engagement:
  Partner with internal teams to present and position new products to clients, consultants, and prospects. Gather feedback and insights to continuously improve product offerings.
• Product Innovation:
  Explore opportunities for innovative product solutions that can differentiate the firm’s offerings in the market. Foster a culture of innovation within the Product Development team.
• Regulatory Compliance:
  Ensure all products adhere to relevant U.S. regulatory guidelines, including SEC, IRS, ERISA, and other governing bodies. Collaborate with Legal and Compliance teams to ensure accurate documentation and transparent product disclosures.

• Education:
  
  MBA or advanced degree in Finance, Business Administration, or related field.
• Certifications:
  
  CFA, CAIA, or a comparable financial certification.
• Experience:
  • 8+ years of product management and development experience within financial services, asset management, or investment consulting, preferably with exposure to defined contribution and multi‑asset strategies.
  • Proven track record in developing, launching, and managing investment products, including lifetime income solutions, co‑manufactured target‑date funds and managed account solutions.
  • Familiarity with the DC industry, including an understanding of ERISA and the broad ecosystem (investment managers, insurers, middleware providers, investment consultants and advisors, etc.).
  • Deep knowledge of various defined contribution vehicles, including collective investment trusts, mutual funds, separate accounts, and alternative investments.
• Skills:
  • Excellent analytical and problem‑solving capabilities, with a strategic mindset.
  • Strong project management skills, with proven ability to manage complex cross‑functional initiatives.
  • Exceptional communication skills, both written and verbal, with the ability to influence stakeholders at all levels.
  • Ability to manage multiple projects simultaneously, prioritize effectively, and meet deadlines.
  • Experience with competitive analysis, financial modeling, and pricing strategies.
  • Proficiency with industry tools, such as Morningstar Direct and Factset.
• Ability to travel (up to 25%).

• Relationship Building &
  
  Collaboration:
  
  Establish and nurture strong relationships…