Head of Compliance
Location: New York, NY
Position: Head of Compliance
Reporting to : Founding & Managing Partner
Company Overview
Navier-Stokes Capital is a research-driven investment platform focused on uncovering persistent, repeatable alpha in public markets. We operate as a multi-PM platform where each portfolio manager runs a differentiated strategy within a unified risk, technology, and operational framework. Clients can choose to invest in a single strategy, a curated mix, or the entire multi-strategy platform, depending on their risk profile and return objectives.
Position Summary
The head of compliance will be the architect and guardian of our compliance framework. This individual will own the development, implementation, and oversight of our entire compliance program, ensuring adherence to all SEC, FINRA, and other applicable regulatory requirements. This position will serve as the primary point of contact for all regulatory matters and will play a critical role in advising the firm's partners and investment professionals. This is a high-impact role for a true subject matter expert who thrives in a dynamic environment.
Key Responsibilities
- Compliance Program Management: Develop, implement, administer, and continuously enhance the firm’s Compliance Manual and related policies and procedures.
- Regulatory Liaison & Filings: Act as the primary contact for all SEC, FINRA, and other regulatory examinations, inquiries, and audits. Prepare and file all required documentation, including Forms ADV and PF, accurately and on time.
- Monitoring & Testing: Design and execute a robust annual compliance testing and monitoring program covering key areas including:
- Insider Trading, Information Barriers, and MNPI
- Portfolio and Trading Monitoring (e.g., Personal Trading, Code of Ethics, Best Execution)
- Marketing and Advertising Materials
- Fund Valuation Processes
- Cybersecurity and Data Privacy Protocols
- Third-Party Vendor Management
- Training & Culture: Lead firm-wide compliance training sessions to educate employees on regulatory requirements and foster a strong culture of compliance.
- Risk Assessment: Conduct annual and ad-hoc compliance risk assessments, presenting findings and recommendations to the Management Committee.
- Conflict Management: Administer the firm's Conflicts of Interest Policy and oversee employee personal trading pre-clearance and reporting.
- Technology & Records: Oversee compliance-related technology systems for communication surveillance and trade monitoring, ensuring all electronic records are maintained in accordance with SEC rules.
Qualifications & Requirements
- Bachelor’s degree in Finance, Business, Law, or a related field. A JD or advanced degree is strongly preferred.
- 7-10+ years of progressive compliance experience within an SEC-registered investment adviser, with a mandatory focus on hedge funds or asset management.
- A minimum of 3-5 years in a head of compliance or Deputy CCO role, with a proven track record of independently leading the compliance function.
- Demonstrated, hands-on experience serving as the primary contact and successfully managing SEC examinations.
- Deep, applied knowledge of the Investment Advisers Act of 1940, insider trading laws, SEC marketing rules, and other relevant regulations.
- Strong experience with complex financial instruments (e.g., derivatives, swaps).
- Thorough understanding of hedge fund operations, including prime brokerage relationships, fund structures, and valuation principles.
Skills & Competencies:
- Unquestionable integrity and professional ethics with the confidence and authority to make difficult decisions.
- Exceptional communication and interpersonal skills, with the ability to effectively influence and collaborate with investment professionals, senior management, and the board.
- Proactive, hands-on, and detail-oriented with the ability to anticipate risk and implement practical solutions.
- Ability to operate effectively and autonomously in a fast-paced, entrepreneurial setting.
Preferred Qualifications
- Experience building or substantially rebuilding a compliance program from the ground up.
- Background in a quantitative or high-frequency trading environment.
- Established network and deep knowledge of the hedge fund industry landscape.