Consultant Spotlight: Elaine Snyder
Process Improvement Specialist and the Architect Behind Operational Excellence
Elaine Snyder
Project Management & Business Analysis Consultant
Elaine Snyder’s clients have described her as a “dream come true” and a “great asset to any team.” Why? Because she improves efficiency for financial service firms by evaluating and refining their processes and procedures.
Efficiency Expertise
Elaine can quickly identify ineffective processes and clearly articulate 1) the problem, 2) the procedural gap causing the problem, and 3) a potential solution. She comes to her clients as a strategic partner, presenting viable options for moving their business forward. “No one wants to be frustrated at work,” she said. “Good procedures make the client’s business run more smoothly and can significantly improve the quality of life for clients and their employees.”
What’s more, Elaine works with many younger professionals seeking opportunities for advancement. She provides support by mentoring new hires and creating professional development plans. “I feel it’s my obligation (and my joy!) to teach the next generation. Wherever possible, I try to help my staff and coworkers learn and grow professionally.”
“Good procedures make the client’s business run more smoothly and can significantly improve the quality of life for clients and their employees.”
Precision Planning
One of Elaine’s most significant career accomplishments was spearheading the infrastructure for a new hedge fund. As the primary point person, she selected the prime broker, auditing firm, tax accountant, attorney, portfolio management software, and accounting software. She also oversaw implementation of all firm technology and established control procedures and client reporting processes. Elaine’s flawless project execution significantly impacted the firm’s future by creating a solid foundation for growth.
Repeatable Results
“Elaine helped create timelines, establish a roadmap, and keep the team organized,” said one client. “Her strong organizational skills and ability to bring clarity to complex workflows were invaluable in keeping the project on track.” Clients say many nice things about Elaine, but the numbers speak for themselves.
“Her strong organizational skills and ability to bring clarity to complex workflows were invaluable.”
At one of the world's largest investment advisors, she established procedural controls that resulted in an 85% decrease in trade settlement failure. At a wealth management firm, she automated quarterly client statement generation, reducing the reporting cycle by 80% from 25 to 5 business days. At another firm, she automated the daily custodial reconciliation process, which increased accuracy and timeliness and resulted in a permanent 50% headcount reduction.
“If you can’t double the number of your accounts or assets under management overnight, your processes are holding you back,” she said. “A business unit must be poised to accommodate growth and change, and good procedures will facilitate that.”
Connecting with Collabry
At Collabry, we believe in expertise and empathy, passion and compassion, business outlook and human insight — and that’s where Elaine shines. Our consultants take ownership of their work and take pride in helping firms flourish. Interested in learning more about our unique culture at Collabry? Let’s talk.