Associate Vice President, Head of Governance Operations

As a senior leader at Nasdaq, you will serve as the operational leader of the Index Governance organization, translating strategic priorities into disciplined execution and ensuring the Governance function delivers with consistency, credibility, and scale. You will be accountable for driving an integrated governance model that supports business growth, regulatory excellence, and client trust.

Reporting to the Global Head of Index Governance, this role serves as the principal leader responsible for the day-to-day execution, coordination, and operational effectiveness of the Governance function, while helping advance the broader strategic vision and priorities of the organization. You'll thrive in this position if you bring executive presence, a strong governance and risk management background, and the ability to mobilize diverse, senior teams toward a common vision in a complex, regulated environment.

Key Responsibilities

• Lead the day-to-day operations of the Index Governance function, coordinating priorities, resources, and deliverables to ensure consistent execution across all governance pillars.

• Design and implement a formal Governance Quality Control Framework, establishing standards for review, validation, monitoring, and escalation across the Index lifecycle.

• Serve as the primary Governance liaison to Enterprise Risk Management, Compliance, Legal, Internal Audit, and other control functions, ensuring material risks are identified, assessed, and escalated appropriately.

• Act as a trusted advisor and operational partner to the Head of Index Governance, leading strategic initiatives, executive reporting, and organizational effectiveness programs.

• Partner with Product, Platform, Technology, Data, Research, and Commercial teams to embed scalable governance solutions that support growth and regulatory credibility.

• Drive continuous improvement across governance practices, championing data-driven approaches, automation, and modernization to strengthen the Governance organization's long-term impact.

Required Qualifications

• 10+ years of experience in Governance, Risk, Regulatory Affairs, Controls, Operations, or Financial Services leadership within a regulated industry.

• Demonstrated success leading senior professionals and cross-functional organizations with measurable outcomes.

• Proven ability to operate at the intersection of strategic direction and operational execution in complex, highly regulated environments.

• Track record of engaging with regulators, auditors, senior executives, and board-level stakeholders.

• Strong executive presence with exceptional written and verbal communication skills.

• Deep understanding of governance frameworks, risk management practices, and compliance obligations in capital markets or equivalent global industries.

Preferred Qualifications

• Background in Index Administration, Benchmark Administration, Asset Management, Exchanges, or Market Infrastructure.

• Experience developing or overseeing quality control frameworks, risk dashboards, or governance reporting programs.

• Advanced degree (e.g., MBA) or equivalent senior leadership training.

This position will be located in New York City and offers a hybrid work environment with at least 3 days per week in-office, subject to change

Come as You Are

Nasdaq is an equal opportunity employer. We welcome applications from candidates of all backgrounds and identities.

We are committed to fostering an inclusive workplace where diverse perspectives, experiences, and identities are valued and celebrated.

We ensure that individuals with disabilities are provided with reasonable accommodation throughout the hiring process.

What We Offer

We’re proud to offer a competitive rewards package that is meaningful, recognizes the unique needs of our employees and their families and incentivizes employees for their contribution to Nasdaq’s overall success.

The base pay range for this role is $148,000 - $274,000. In addition to base salary, Nasdaq provides a generous annual bonus/commission (short-term incentive), and equity (long-term incentive), comprehensive benefits, and opportunity for growth. Exact compensation may vary based on several job-related factors that are unique to each candidate, including but not limited to: skill set, experience, education/training, business needs and market demands.

Nasdaq’s programs and rewards are intended to allow our employees to:

• Secure Wealth: 401(k) program with 6% employer match, Employee Stock Purchase Program with 15% discount, Student loan repayment program up to $10k, Company paid life and disability plans, Generous paid time off
• Prioritize Health: Comprehensive medical, dental and vision coverage, Health spending account with employer contribution, Paid flex days to support mental wellbeing, Gym membership discounts
• Care for Family: Hybrid home/office schedule (for most positions), Paid parental leave, Fertility benefits, Paid bereavement leave
• Connect with Community: Company gift matching program, Employee resource groups, Paid volunteer days
• Grow Career: Education Assistance Program, Robust job skills training and Professional development opportunities

For more information, visit Nasdaq Benefits & Rewards Career page.