As Principal Launch Manager, you’ll lead Upvest’s most complex, high-stakes launches with established banks in Germany and across Europe.
You’ll own end-to-end delivery for full launch programs - spanning scoping, implementation, and (where possible) migration - while serving as the executive-facing driver of the project.
Additionally, you will support / drive asset migrations from incumbent custodians to Upvest, ensuring continuity of service, data integrity, and zero-defect go-lives.
You are the “spider in the web”: synthesizing deep product knowledge with operational excellence, running steering committees with Upvest and client executives, and aligning legal, compliance, and technology streams.
You’ll set the bar for how Upvest launches complex banking clients, help shape our playbooks, and mentor Launch Managers across the portfolio.
Support or own (depending on experience) custody asset migrations (e.g. equities, ETFs, Mutual Funds etc.) from the client’s previous custodian to Upvest
Ensure all projects are meticulously planned, executed, and tested
Create first-class, repeatable enterprise client launch and migration experiences: Lead and standardize securities integration and migration projects, enabling clients to build investment products on our API
Drive day-to-day execution with Engineering, Product, Operations, and Compliance - removing blockers, negotiate trade-offs, and keep scope, timeline and risk in balance
Set new standards in client collaboration and communication
Run steering sessions with senior stakeholders at established banks. Surface options with clear implications, secure decisions, and maintain a crisp narrative of progress and risk
Build trusted client relationships and foster cross-functional collaboration with a partnership mindset. Your pragmatic leadership style ensures successful integrations, motivates teams, and aligns client needs with our business goals.
Requirements
Proven track record leading complex, multi-entity programs for tier-1 banks or large financial institutions—ideally covering custody, brokerage, post-trade, or securities operations
Ideally experience in management consulting
Executive communication, decision-log discipline, and calm leadership under pressure
Expert in end-to-end project management: Proven ability to design, plan, and execute large-scale projects
Superb project and communication skills, with a hands-on attitude
A client-first mindset and a pragmatic approach to solving problems
A willingness to dive into the deep end, be challenged and learn at a rapid pace
Risk Management focus - Ability to identify risks associated with migrations and implement effective mitigation strategies
Capable of defining and aligning technical and business requirements for seamless migration processes
Experience in managing the custody transfer of financial instruments, like equities, ETFs and mutual funds
Passionate about improving tools and processes
You are proactive in coming up with an informed hypothesis, planning with foresight, and addressing questions or issues early
You are fluent in English and German (both written and verbal).
Benefits
Flexible work environment: Work from any of our hubs in Berlin, London or Tallinn hybrid or remotely across Europe, depending on the role.
Professional development: Access an annual budget of €1,500 for personal and professional training to master your craft.
Wellbeing: Recharge with 30 days of annual leave and maintain a healthy lifestyle with sports benefits. Access confidential professional coaching and enjoy the flexibility to work remotely abroad for up to 183 days a year.
Compensation and equity: We believe that all Upvengers contribute to our success and deserve a competitive, above-market salary and a participation in our employee equity program.
Team celebrations: Participate in company-wide events, such as UpFest, dinners, offsites and our Holiday party, to connect with colleagues and celebrate our achievements.
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