ASSOCIATE DIRECTOR, STRATEGY & OPERATIONS

Cresset Capital • Chicago, IL

8h • $125,000 - $145,000

About The Position

Cresset is a firm built by clients, for clients. As an independent, award-winning multi-family office and private investment firm, we are reimagining the way wealth is experienced. Our purpose is to help ensure that both wealth and life are fully optimized—integrated, intentional, and aligned with each client’s vision of success. We provide access to the caliber of talent, ideas, and investment opportunities typically available to the largest single-family offices and institutions. Our approach is personalized, entrepreneurial, and client-first. Proudly owned by our clients and employees, Cresset was built to endure. We are creating a 100+ year firm—one focused on delivering an exceptional experience, not only for the families we serve but for the team that serves them. Recognized by Barron’s and Forbes among the nation’s top RIA firms, and as one of the industry’s best places to work, Cresset is guided by long-term relationships, shared success, and a belief that wealth should serve a life well lived. The Associate Director, Strategy & Operations will play a critical role in advancing the strategic and operational priorities of the Family Office Services (“FOS”) group. Reporting directly to the Managing Director, Head of Operations for Family Office Services, this individual will partner closely with the broader FOS team, Cresset Wealth Advisors, and broader functional teams across Cresset to drive high-impact, cross-functional initiatives. This role is designed for a highly analytical, execution-oriented professional who thrives in a fast-paced, growth-oriented environment. This role will lead strategic planning efforts, improve operational and client service processes, support technology adoption, and help translate firm-level objectives into scalable, repeatable execution within FOS.

Requirements

• Bachelor’s degree in Business, Finance, or related field.
• Two to three years of experience in a top-tier management consulting or strategy consulting environment, with demonstrated exposure to strategy, operations, or transformation engagements.
• Strong analytical and problem-solving skills, with the ability to structure ambiguous problems and develop actionable insights.
• Proven ability to manage complex, cross-functional initiatives and drive execution.
• High attention to detail, strong organizational skills, and the ability to manage multiple priorities simultaneously.
• Excellent written and verbal communication skills, including experience preparing executive-level materials.
• Thrives in a dynamic, fast-paced environment with changing priorities.
• Positive attitude and eagerness to learn; collaborates with and supports colleagues to achieve shared goals.
• Ability to maintain discretion and confidentiality with sensitive client information.
• Occasional travel may be required.

Nice To Haves

• Experience working with financial services, wealth management, family office, or professional services organizations is not required but is a plus.
• Exposure to operational transformation, process redesign, or technology implementation initiatives is not required but is a plus.

Responsibilities

• Drive FOS strategic initiatives from concept through execution, working in close partnership with senior leadership.
• Conduct structured analyses, develop insights, and prepare clear, executive-level recommendations to support decision-making.
• Coordinate cross-functional efforts across FOS, Wealth Advisory, Technology, Operations, Marketing, Legal, and other corporate functions to ensure alignment and execution discipline.
• Lead the design, implementation, and continuous improvement of core operational and client service delivery processes within FOS.
• Identify inefficiencies, risks, and scalability constraints; develop and implement solutions that improve quality, consistency, and speed.
• Establish and track key performance indicators (KPIs) and operating metrics to measure effectiveness and drive accountability.
• Support the evaluation, selection, and adoption of technology platforms and tools that enhance operational efficiency and client experience.
• Partner with technology and data teams to define requirements, manage implementation efforts, and ensure successful change adoption across FOS.
• Translate business needs into clear operational and technology requirements.
• Work with FOS team members and Wealth Advisors to enhance end-to-end client service delivery models.
• Help standardize best practices while maintaining flexibility for complex, high-net-worth client needs.
• Support the development of scalable service models that align with Crescent’s growth objectives.
• Serve as a trusted thought partner to the FOS leadership team.
• Support change management efforts by communicating objectives, progress, and outcomes effectively.

Benefits

• Cresset offers a competitive compensation package including an annual incentive and a benefits package to all full-time employees including medical, dental, vision, life insurance, 401(k) retirement plan, health savings accounts, short and long-term disability insurance, voluntary critical and accident insurance, and pre-tax parking and transportation programs.

What This Job Offers

• Job Type: Full-time
• Career Level: Mid Level
• Number of Employees: 501-1,000 employees