Out of admin, into client liaison

Shortages of experienced client relationship managers are creating opportunities for switched-on administrators to flourish in Ireland's fund admin industry.

"We've seen a growth in the number of client liaison vacancies within the funds industry over the past year," says Lorraine Shine, director of Fast Financial Recruitment in Dublin. "The key players are competing as much on service delivery as they are on cost when managing new business."

Employers ideally want previous experience - but failing that, product knowledge and a winning personality can open doors for those looking to move from the back office, according to Darren McCabe of Joslin Rowe: "Organisations will provide training in relationship management if candidates have three to five years' solid experience in fund administration or accounting," he explains. "But they'd need to display the confidence to easily step into the role. Two years ago, employers wouldn't even have considered administrators for client-facing positions."

Good client liaison teams help to take pressure off operational areas of the business, says Shine: "Excellent communication and presentation skills are vital - and while demand isn't as strong as it is in operations, there are plenty of opportunities for candidates with the right mix of technical and soft skills."

And administrators will be rewarded for their transferable skills: "Someone with 3 to 5 years in administration is likely to be on €35k to €50k," says McCabe. "By moving into relationship management, they'd be looking at a rise of up to €7k. That's an average increase for Dubliners changing jobs - but it provides a fresh set of superb future options if you do well."