SMA Sponsor and Product Implementation Manager

Who You’ll Work With

The SMA Sponsor Engagement & Product Implementation Manager is responsible for leading sponsor engagement and managing the end-to-end implementation of new and existing SMA products. This role serves as the primary point of contact for sponsor relationships, ensuring effective communication, issue resolution, and partnership growth, while also driving operational excellence in product onboarding and support.

The ideal candidate will embody AB’s values of teamwork, intellectual curiosity, integrity, and client-centricity, and will bring specialized expertise in technology, relationship management, and cross-functional leadership.

What You’ll Do

• Serve as the lead for sponsor engagement, building and maintaining strong relationships with senior sponsor contacts, proactively identifying opportunities to deepen partnerships, and managing escalations or complex issues.
• Lead the implementation of new SMA products, enhancements, and initiatives from concept through launch, ensuring alignment with AB’s operational standards and client expectations.
• Collaborate with internal stakeholders (Product, Technology, Legal, Compliance, Client Service, and Sales) to define requirements, timelines, and deliverables.
• Develop and manage detailed project plans, track progress, and proactively address risks or issues.
• Ensure all operational processes, documentation, and systems are in place to support SMA products, including account setup, trading, reconciliation, and reporting.
• Identify opportunities for process improvement and efficiency, leveraging technology and best practices.
• Maintain a strong understanding of industry trends, regulatory requirements, and competitive landscape related to SMA products.
• Foster a team-oriented, inclusive, and collaborative environment, in line with AB’s values.

Key Attributes and Skills

• InvestCloud APL System & Sponsor Interface Knowledge: Experience with InvestCloud APL and sponsor interfaces to facilitate effective client engagement and operational integration.
• Technology Acumen: Strong understanding of current technologies such as Artificial Intelligence and Robotic Process Automation, with the ability to apply these tools to enhance operational processes.
• Relationship Management & Communication: Proven ability to build trust with senior sponsor contacts, navigate difficult conversations, manage escalations, and proactively communicate solutions.
• Product & Process Understanding: Aptitude and interest to develop a deep understanding of AB’s SMA products, investment processes, and how they translate into sponsor and operational requirements.
• Sponsor Partnership Focus: Recognizes the importance of sponsor relationships to AB’s business, can identify opportunities to deepen partnerships, and understands when operational challenges create risks to growth.
• Problem Solving & Ownership: Asks the right questions, challenges assumptions, brings the right people together, and takes ownership of issues through resolution—not just coordination.
• Cross-Functional Bridging: Effectively bridges sales, investments, technology, and operations, translating between teams and driving outcomes without necessarily having direct authority.

What We’re Looking For

• Bachelor’s degree in Business, Finance, or related field; advanced degree or relevant certifications a plus.
• 5+ years of experience in product implementation, project management, or operations within asset management or financial services, preferably with SMA or similar products.
• Experience with InvestCloud APL and sponsor interfaces.
• Demonstrated experience with AI, RPA, or similar technologies in an operational context.
• Excellent communication, interpersonal, and organizational skills.
• High level of integrity, accountability, and attention to detail.
• Intellectual curiosity and a proactive approach to problem-solving.