Payments Consultant

About Northern Trust

Northern Trust is a globally recognized leader in wealth management, asset servicing, asset management, and banking services, serving sophisticated clients worldwide. Established in 1889, the firm is guided by three enduring principles: Service, Expertise, and Integrity. With over 135 years of financial experience and a team of more than 24,000 partners, Northern Trust delivers cutting-edge technology and exceptional service to its clients.

Role Overview

The Payments Consultant will support a global fund administrator, focusing on operational tasks predominantly in SWIFT and cash functions within the Private Equity and Real Estate sectors. The ideal candidate is a proven leader who takes initiative, manages multiple projects independently in a fast-moving and demanding environment, and demonstrates exceptional follow-through and conflict resolution skills. Strong teamwork and communication abilities are essential.

Key Responsibilities

• Oversee daily cash flow request processing, ensuring all instructions are validated and executed according to authorization, confirming payment settlements, and accurately posting transactions for clients.
• Manage vendor workflows by coordinating independent verifications, vendor setups on payment platforms, and follow-ups when required.
• Collaborate with clients to identify and resolve cash discrepancies and payment-related issues.
• Handle daily foreign exchange transaction processing for clients.
• Report discrepancies to internal teams and contribute to their resolution.
• Contribute to the design and enhancement of scalable, transparent, and controlled cash processing workflows.
• Initiate and lead projects to streamline Accounts Payable processes, engaging stakeholders to communicate project benefits.
• Coordinate with IT teams to test and deploy developments and enhancements related to cash services.
• Escalate issues as necessary and authorize daily process requirements.
• Develop comprehensive procedures and promote thorough understanding of client-specific requirements within the team.
• Assist the Implementation Project Manager to ensure smooth onboarding of new clients.
• Foster strong internal and external relationships.
• Provide assistance to both internal and external clients with cash-related inquiries.
• Perform ad hoc expense analyses as needed.

Required Skills and Experience

• Demonstrated experience in operations, preferably within Private Equity and Real Estate environments, though not mandatory.
• Project management expertise and experience collaborating directly with clients.
• Background in cash payments processing and familiarity with SWIFT systems is an advantage.
• Strong team player, accountable for own responsibilities, and committed to contributing to the broader team objectives.
• Excellent written and verbal communication skills.
• Proficient in Microsoft Outlook and Excel, including advanced functions such as pivot tables and VLOOKUP.
• Understanding of fundamental accounting principles and procedures, along with knowledge of financial markets and instruments.
• Experience in client service roles.
• Ability to perform effectively under pressure and meet deadlines in a dynamic, growing department.
• Highly adaptable and flexible to change.

Work Authorization

Candidates must have legal authorization to work in Ireland at the time of application and throughout employment. Northern Trust will not offer employment permit sponsorship for this position, including Critical Skills, General, Intra-Company Transfer Permits, Stamp 1G permissions, or other permits under Irish immigration laws.

Working Environment and Culture

Employees at Northern Trust are part of a collaborative and flexible culture, supported by a history of financial stability. Internal mobility is encouraged, and leadership is accessible. The company is committed to inclusivity and supporting communities. Northern Trust emphasizes philanthropy, with employees volunteering globally to benefit their communities.

Reasonable Accommodation

Northern Trust is dedicated to accommodating individuals with health conditions or disabilities. Applicants needing adjustments during the hiring process are encouraged to contact the HR Service Center or communicate their needs to the recruiter.