Custom Index Manager

About the role

The Data Operations Associate is responsible for the entire data lifecycle from data preparation to reporting, recognizing the interconnected nature of data analytics and data operations. This role involves analyzing and implementing complex index methodology, solving non-routine operational problems, and interacting with S&P proprietary calculation systems. The associate must work with large and complex datasets in Excel and leverage coding skills to improve velocity, reliability, and quality of data operations and analytics.

The role includes selecting and weighting index constituents, maintaining indices on a daily basis (accounting for corporate actions), and managing a wide range of indices covering capital markets such as equities, fixed income, commodities, derivatives, and real estate. The associate also maintains key client relationships and acts as a backup to other index managers, requiring knowledge of their product lines. Strong math skills, understanding of index mathematics, and proficiency with complex Excel models are essential.

Responsibilities

• Search for, validate, and enter data into our calculation engine while ensuring ongoing data integrity.
• Contribute to the continuous improvement of processes and tools.
• Prepare and calculate client custom indices, including analytical research on companies, adjusting data in calculation systems, and conforming data to index rules.
• Ensure timely and accurate delivery of real-time and end-of-day index data to clients and end users.
• Maintain, update, and troubleshoot complex index models in Excel on a daily basis.
• Provide customer service to existing custom index clients regarding their indices.
• Perform quantitative analyses of index returns, weights, and constituents.
• Manage and maintain relationships with key members of other groups within S&P Index Services and across other S&P departments, particularly IT.

Requirements

• Strong math background.
• 0 to 3 years of professional experience (internships considered; recent college graduates welcome).
• Ability to work under pressure and demonstrate excellent analytical and quantitative capabilities to solve original, non-routine problems.
• Detail-oriented with the ability to consistently perform daily production tasks.
• Superior Excel/VBA, SQL, and Python skills; experience with GenAI/LLM is required to manage and manipulate large datasets and automate processes.
• Basic understanding of equity index math, equity markets, commodities pricing, bond, and derivatives calculations (e.g., options, futures, swaps, forwards).
• Ability to work independently on multiple projects with minimal direction or supervision.
• CFA level 1 or 2 qualification is a plus but not required.
• Ability to assume responsibility, work with others, and manage projects.
• Ability to learn new data and calculation platforms quickly.
• Excellent written and verbal communication skills, with the ability to coordinate work across multiple people or groups.
• Experience dealing with customers in time-sensitive, demanding environments where data interpretation has both objective and subjective components.

Preferred Qualifications

• Bachelor’s degree.
• Advanced degree in math, actuarial science, computer science, or information systems strongly preferred.

Benefits

• Health & Wellness: Comprehensive health care coverage for mind and body.
• Flexible Downtime: Generous time off to stay energized.
• Continuous Learning: Access to resources for career growth, including a continuing education program with company-matched student loan contributions.
• Invest in Your Future: Competitive pay, retirement planning, and financial wellness programs.
• Family-Friendly Perks: Best-in-class benefits for partners and families.
• Beyond the Basics: Retail discounts, referral incentive awards, and other small perks.

For more information on benefits by country, visit spgbenefits.com/benefit-summaries.

Pay

The anticipated base salary range for this position is $90,000 to $100,000, varying by geographic location. The role is also eligible for additional compensation, such as an annual incentive bonus, and other S&P Global benefits.