EquiTrust is hiring: (Contract)- Lead Investment Data and Reporting Analyst in C

The Lead Investment Data and Reporting Analyst is responsible for the strategic and operational alignment of investment data across departments, This role oversees the integrity, accuracy, and regulatory compliance of data by managing reconciliation efforts across key systems-such as PAM, BlackRock/Aladdin, and Rivitt-and ensuring consistent data alignment for reliable internal reporting and regulatory filings.

In addition to maintaining accurate data across multiple platforms, the Lead Analyst is responsible for producing and validating reports for external stakeholders, including ratings agencies and insurance regulators, to meet compliance requirements. This role manages and drives the implementation and automation of processes that improve data integrity and streamline reporting workflows. The Lead Analyst will actively collaborate with internal teams to monitor critical data elements, identify and resolve discrepancies, and implement changes that enhance the quality and accessibility of data used by the accounting and finance and investment teams.

Essential Duties and Responsibilities:

• Investment Data Management & Reconciliation:
• Oversees the accuracy of EquiTrusts investment financial data, focusing on credit rating data, within the company's investment systems, including PAM for Investments, BlackRock/Aladdin, and internal data warehouses.
• Leverages technical expertise to design and develop robust reporting systems, data models, and analytical tools that enhance data accuracy, streamline/automate reporting processes, and support strategic decision-making.
• Establishes systems for ongoing data integrity checks, troubleshoots escalated discrepancies, and recommends solutions to enhance data quality for effective reporting and compliance with NAIC (National Association of Insurance Commissioners) standards.
• Provides guidance for trade monitoring activities and coordinates with front, middle, and back offices to investigate and resolve discrepancies across investment management and accounting systems.
• Collaborates with internal and external teams to streamline data reconciliation processes and ensure data alignment between systems, facilitating accurate investment reporting and decision-making.
• Regulatory Reporting & Compliance:
• Ensures timely and accurate filing of regulatory data with NAIC, including private letter ratings and security master file information for private investments.
• Manages and reports investment credit ratings in compliance with regulatory requirements, identifying and addressing rating discrepancies through collaboration with the NAIC and CUSIP Global Services.
• Supports audit and regulatory requests related to credit ratings and other investment data, maintaining thorough and organized records for compliance.
• Data Integrity & Process Improvement:
• Drive process improvements in investment accounting and reporting workflows to enhance data quality and reduce operational risks, working closely with data and technology teams to develop automated or systematic solutions.
• Utilizes relational database skills and SQL expertise to create and maintain efficient data structures and automation tools that streamline reporting and reconciliation efforts.
• Acts as a data quality liaison, establishing monitoring safeguards and implementing corrective actions for data issues in a timely manner.
• Additional Responsibilities:
• Supports Accounting and Finance team and/or other departments on an as needed basis.
• Willingly takes on additional responsibilities as requested to accomplish department and Company objectives.
• Actively participates and contributes to the goals and objectives of the Company by working collaboratively and fostering a positive and inclusive work environment.

Skills and Abilities:

• Excellent oral, written, and presentation skills and the ability to ask pointed questions to clearly articulate across multiple functions of the organization.
• Superior analytical skills to research, and use good judgment and discretion in performing the job duties.
• Strong technical skills within Investment Accounting. Financial Reporting, and/or Financial Data Management.
• Ability to work with confidential and proprietary information with discretion.
• Demonstrate critical thinking skills and strong problem-solving aptitude.
• Knowledge of insurance and STAT regulatory reporting
• Knowledge of PAM Accounting and Bloomberg systems, BlackRock Aladdin knowledge is a plus.
• Advanced proficiency with Microsoft Office, specifically Excel.
• Accuracy, attention to detail, and extremely through with the ability to meet deadlines and strong ability to execute under pressure.
• Must have the ability to work independently and handle multiple tasks simultaneously.

Training or Work Experience:

• Minimum 6 years of financial industry experience in investment accounting or investment operational roles.
• 8 years of financial industry experience in investment accounting or investment operational roles preferred.
• 5 years of regulatory reporting experience within life insurance or similar financial services preferred.
• Minimum 2 years of regulatory reporting experience within life insurance or financial services required.
• Working knowledge of investment accounting and operations systems required.
• Extensive experience working with databases that includes system/process improvement.
• Detailed understanding of various investment asset classes preferred.
• Managerial experience preferred.

Education:

• Bachelor's degree in Data Analytics, Accounting or Finance required.
• CPA or CFA preferred.

Working Conditions:

• On-Site Location: Chicago, Illinois
• Mostly off-site
• Business Travel: Infrequent travel (less than 5% of the time).

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EquiTrust is an Equal Opportunity Employer and participates in the U.S. Federal E-Verify program. Applicants have rights under federal and state employment laws. To learn more, visit https://www.equitrust.com/careers/opportunities/applicant-notices/.