JRG Partners is exclusively representing a premier, globally recognized fund administration firm in their search for an exceptional Managing Director to lead their Private Equity Operations division in Tampa, Florida. This is a rare and career-defining opportunity for a strategic and client-focused leader to take ownership of a critical, high-growth business unit. The successful candidate will be responsible for setting the strategic direction, driving operational excellence, and fostering a culture of unparalleled client service. You will be at the forefront of the private equity industry, providing essential services to some of the world’s most sophisticated investment managers. This role requires a unique blend of deep technical accounting expertise, inspirational leadership, and a proven ability to cultivate and expand senior-level client relationships. As the head of the Tampa office’s Private Equity division, you will have a significant impact on the firm’s regional success and its global reputation as a leader in fund services. We are seeking an individual with the vision and drive to not only manage the current operations but to anticipate industry trends, innovate service offerings, and scale the team for future growth.
Role Overview for Managing Director, Private Equity Operations with a Fund Admin Firm – Tampa, FL
The Managing Director of Private Equity Operations is the senior executive responsible for the overall management, service delivery, and strategic growth of the firm’s private equity fund administration services in the Tampa region. This is a pivotal leadership position that combines P&L responsibility with hands-on oversight of complex fund operations. You will serve as the primary relationship manager for a portfolio of high-profile private equity clients, acting as their trusted advisor and ensuring their needs are met with the highest standards of quality and accuracy. You will lead a large and talented team of professionals, including Directors, Vice Presidents, and Managers, fostering their professional development and creating a collaborative, high-performance environment. Your leadership will be crucial in navigating the complexities of the alternative investment landscape, ensuring compliance with evolving regulations, and leveraging technology to create efficiencies and enhance service delivery. This role demands a strategic mindset to identify new market opportunities, contribute to business development efforts, and solidify the firm’s position as the provider of choice for private equity fund administration.
Key Responsibilities of Managing Director, Private Equity Operations with a Fund Admin Firm – Tampa, FL
Strategic Leadership and Team Management
Develop and execute the comprehensive business strategy for the Tampa Private Equity Operations division, aligning with the firm’s global objectives. Provide visionary leadership to a multi-layered team, setting clear goals, managing performance, and championing a culture of continuous improvement and professional growth. Oversee all aspects of talent management, including hiring, training, mentoring, and succession planning to build a world-class team. Manage the division’s P&L, including budgeting, forecasting, and resource allocation to ensure profitability and sustainable growth.
Client Relationship Management and Advisory
Act as the senior executive sponsor and ultimate point of contact for a portfolio of key private equity clients. Cultivate deep, strategic relationships with C-level executives, General Partners, and CFOs at client firms, understanding their business objectives and providing expert guidance on operational and accounting matters. Lead complex client onboarding projects, ensuring a seamless transition and integration. Proactively manage client satisfaction, address escalations with diplomacy and efficiency, and identify opportunities to expand service relationships.
Operational Excellence and Service Delivery Oversight
Assume ultimate responsibility for the quality, accuracy, and timeliness of all fund administration deliverables. This includes overseeing the entire fund accounting lifecycle, from capital calls and distributions to the NAV calculation and preparation of complex financial statements under U.S. GAAP and IFRS. Ensure the precise execution of waterfall calculations, carried interest modeling, and partner capital account maintenance. Champion the adoption of new technologies and implement industry best practices for fund administration to drive efficiency, mitigate risk, and enhance the client experience.
Risk Management and Regulatory Compliance
Establish and maintain a robust control environment to ensure strict adherence to all regulatory requirements, client Limited Partnership Agreements (LPAs), and internal policies. Stay abreast of changes in accounting standards and industry regulations impacting private equity funds and their administration. Work closely with legal, compliance, and internal audit teams to manage operational risk and ensure the highest standards of governance.
Business Development and Commercial Growth
Collaborate closely with the firm’s sales and business development teams to drive the growth of the Tampa private equity practice. Act as a subject matter expert in client pitches, finalist presentations, and due diligence meetings. Leverage your industry network and reputation to source new business opportunities. Contribute to the firm’s market presence and thought leadership by participating in industry conferences, authoring white papers, and speaking on expert panels.
Requirements for the Managing Director, Private Equity Operations with a Fund Admin Firm – Tampa, FL
Educational & Professional Credentials
A Bachelor’s degree in Accounting, Finance, or a related business field is required. An MBA or other relevant advanced degree is highly desirable. A Certified Public Accountant (CPA) designation is mandatory for this position.
Professional Experience
A minimum of 15+ years of progressive professional experience within the financial services industry, with a strong and specific focus on private equity fund accounting and administration. At least 8-10 years of experience in a significant leadership capacity, with a proven track record of managing, mentoring, and developing large, high-performing teams. Direct experience working within a fund administration provider is strongly preferred. Experience at a ‘Big 4’ public accounting firm within their asset management or private equity practice is also highly valued.
Technical Expertise
Expert-level knowledge of private equity fund structures (e.g., LBO, Growth Equity, Venture Capital), complex partnership accounting, and financial reporting standards (U.S. GAAP, IFRS). Deep technical proficiency in calculating complex waterfalls, management fees, and carried interest is essential. Demonstrated experience with leading fund accounting platforms such as Investran, eFront, or Allvue is required.
Leadership & Management Skills
Exceptional leadership and people management skills with the ability to inspire, motivate, and develop talent at all levels. Proven ability to set strategic vision and execute on complex business plans. Strong commercial acumen with experience managing a P&L and driving business growth.
Client-Facing & Communication Skills
Superior client relationship management skills with a demonstrated ability to build credibility and trust with senior executives. Outstanding written and verbal communication skills, with the ability to present complex information clearly and persuasively to sophisticated audiences. Excellent negotiation and problem-solving abilities are critical for success.
Benefits & Perks Offered
Our client is committed to attracting and retaining top-tier talent and offers a highly competitive and comprehensive compensation and benefits package, including:
Executive Compensation
A highly competitive base salary complemented by a significant performance-based annual bonus and long-term incentive/equity potential.
Comprehensive Health & Wellness
Premier medical, dental, and vision insurance plans for you and your dependents. A robust wellness program, including gym memberships and mental health resources.
Retirement Planning
A generous 401(k) retirement plan with a substantial company match to help you plan for your future.
Work-Life Balance
A generous paid time off (PTO) policy, numerous paid holidays, and comprehensive parental leave policies to support your family.
Professional Development
A dedicated budget for continuing professional education (CPE), industry certifications, and attendance at key conferences. Access to executive coaching and leadership development programs.
Relocation
A comprehensive relocation package is available for exceptional candidates who are not currently based in the Tampa area.
Work Environment
A state-of-the-art office located in a prime Tampa location, designed to foster collaboration and innovation. Regular company-sponsored social, team-building, and philanthropic events.
How to Apply
JRG Partners is proud to partner with this premier fund administration firm in their search for a Managing Director of Private Equity Operations. This is a significant leadership role that will shape the future of their Tampa operations and offer unparalleled career growth. If you are a visionary leader with a deep passion for excellence in the private equity space, we encourage you to apply. To learn more about our specialized expertise in this sector and to submit your application for confidential consideration, please visit our Private Equity Recruiting practice area page. We look forward to reviewing your qualifications and discussing this exceptional opportunity with you.
