Senior Director, Agency and Trustee Services

Kroll is a global leader in risk advisory and financial advisory. With a rich history spanning decades we empower organisations to confidently navigate the complexities of a rapidly evolving business landscape. Kroll Agency and Trustee Services (KATS) provides independent, conflict‑free third‑party agency and trustee services across the loan and bond markets. We have developed a strong reputation by delivering proactive and bespoke services and currently manage over 900 transactions globally. Senior Director Agency and Trustee Services We are currently hiring for two senior leadership roles based in Hong Kong, each offering a unique opportunity to shape the future of our APAC operations. Senior Director Head of Operations APAC Agency and Trustee Services Senior Director Head of Hong Kong Agency and Trustee Services Senior Director Head of Operations APAC Agency and Trustee Services RESPONSIBILITIES: Lead the Operations function in APAC, ensuring accurate and timely delivery of all operational processes across loans, bonds, and escrow. Act as the senior escalation point for operational matters, including payment and banking issues with key providers. Drive the development, maintenance and improvement of procedures and controls to meet both internal standards and external regulatory requirements. Ensure effective allocation and management of deal portfolios within the team to support seamless transaction closings and ongoing administration. Work closely with the Desk Extension team in Bangalore to ensure full alignment and collaboration in daily operations and process execution. Lead key projects, including implementation of Kroll Business Connect (KBC), LoanIQ, and other core systems of KATS insofar as it pertains to APAC. Identify and deliver operational efficiencies through process improvement, automation, and enhanced use of data and analytics. Support Kroll’s growth strategy in APAC by aligning operational capabilities with business development goals. Actively contribute to senior management meetings, assisting in decision‑making at both regional and global levels. Assist in the development and execution of global strategies, ensuring alignment with organisational goals and trustee and agency market dynamics. Translate strategic objectives into actionable plans, overseeing implementation across various teams and business units. Collaborate with cross‑functional teams both internally within KATS, KBS, and wider Kroll to drive transformational changes, ensuring efficient and effective implementation. Provide guidance and support to the team in developing business cases and action plans to support strategic initiatives. Manage and develop Operations staff across Hong Kong and Singapore, driving a culture of accountability, collaboration, and continuous improvement. Lead performance management, succession planning and recruitment processes to ensure team depth and capability. Mentor and coach staff, providing technical and professional development pathways. Foster diversity, inclusion and a high‑performance culture across the Operations function. Establish and maintain strong relationships with internal and external stakeholders, understanding their needs and integrating feedback into program strategies. Communicate effectively with diverse teams and key stakeholders across various geographies. Oversee MIS and KPI reporting for APAC, ensuring accuracy, transparency and timely delivery to senior management. Partner with Finance on billing, accounts receivable/payable, and act as a key liaison point for operational financial matters. Support budgeting, forecasting and operational planning processes. Act as a senior point of contact for clients and intermediaries on operational issues, ensuring rapid and effective resolution of escalations. Collaborate with the Transaction Management, Client Services and Business Development teams to deliver a seamless client experience. Engage externally with law firms, sponsors and advisors to promote Kroll’s operational capabilities and support client acquisition. Represent Kroll at industry events and panels, strengthening brand presence and demonstrating operational thought leadership. REQUIREMENTS: Extensive experience in trustee and agency operations with a proven track record in managing multi‑jurisdictional teams. Strong finance background with familiarity across leveraged finance, project finance, real‑estate acquisition finance and investment products. Demonstrated success in operational transformation, including system migrations, process redesign and offshoring initiatives. Proven ability to manage complex client and stakeholder relationships. Excellent leadership skills with the ability to inspire teams and manage through periods of change and growth. Strong regulatory and risk awareness with experience ensuring compliance across multiple APAC jurisdictions. Strong operational background; formal qualifications (e.g. CPA) are an advantage. Multilingual capabilities (English, Cantonese, Mandarin) preferred. Senior Director Head of Hong Kong Agency and Trustee Services REQUIREMENTS: Leadership & Operations Lead and manage the Hong Kong service delivery team, ensuring accurate, timely and high‑quality execution of mandates. Allocate and oversee new deals, balancing resources across the existing portfolio. Manage performance appraisals, coaching and recruitment of team members, fostering a culture of excellence and collaboration. Take a lead role in daily WIP meetings and ensure cohesion between Transaction Management, Business Development, Operations and Client Services. Act as escalation point for clients, intermediaries and internal teams, ensuring issues are resolved effectively. Monitor KPIs and MI reporting and present updates to the APAC Head and KATS senior management. Business Development & Market Growth Originate and secure new mandates, focusing on building deep relationships with law firms, sponsors, advisors and financial institutions in Singapore. Act as a senior representative of Kroll in the Singapore market, engaging with industry stakeholders at conferences, forums and networking events. Support the APAC strategy by identifying opportunities for growth, new products and cross‑sell opportunities across Kroll’s services. Work closely with marketing to raise brand awareness in Singapore and increase market penetration. Governance & Client Service Ensure adherence to risk management, regulatory and compliance standards within Singapore. Act as the principal point of contact for the Monetary Authority of Singapore. Deliver best‑in‑class client service, maintaining Kroll’s reputation as an independent and trusted partner. Maximise portfolio profitability and ensure sustainable long‑term client relationships. QUALIFICATIONS Proven experience as a Senior Transaction Manager and / or Head of Transaction Management at a bank, trustee or similar independent agency and trustee provider. Demonstrable ability to manage teams, drive client engagement and deliver business growth. Excellent relationship management skills, particularly with law firms and other professional intermediaries. Excellent written and verbal communication and reasoning skills. Strong product knowledge of the bonds and loans market. High level of accuracy and attention to detail and the ability to operate and manage a team under pressure and in a fast‑paced environment. Excellent communication and interpersonal skills, with the ability to collaborate across diverse teams and cultures. Bachelor’s degree in a relevant field; legal qualification is a plus. About Kroll Join the global leader in risk and financial advisory solutions. With a nearly century‑long legacy, we blend trusted expertise with cutting‑edge technology to navigate and redefine industry complexities. As part of One Team One Kroll, you’ll contribute to a collaborative and empowering environment propelling your career to new heights. Ready to build, protect, restore and maximize our clients’ value? Your journey begins with Kroll. Kroll is committed to equal opportunity and diversity and recruits people based on merit. #J-18808-Ljbffr