**About this role** The Index & Data Solutions team (IDS) is responsible for the index and data strategy for the firm and the management of the commercial relationships with each provider. The Operations team within IDS is looking for an Associate to join our team of index licensing professionals. This team handles the end-to-end process of reporting index usage to assigned vendors and processing related invoice payments each quarter. Team members are aligned to specific index vendors to develop a deep understanding of vendors’ reporting requirements and fee structures and work closely with the US offshore team to ensure accurate reporting and payment. They also work on key initiatives to streamline processes and enhance quality control measures. This Analyst/Associate will be responsible for day-to-day index licensing operations, project work and responding to business inquiries. The ideal candidate will be a high-energy, ambitious & self-motivated individual who is excited about an opportunity to join a high performing team. We are seeking a critical thinker with strong problem-solving skills who can quickly assess problems and accurately execute on solutions. Must be an excellent communicator able to simplify complex matters and tell a concise story. **Key Responsibilities:** + Own end-to-end index licensing process for quarterly reporting of AUM, validation of fee calculations, and processing of invoices. + Develop subject matter expertise for assigned vendors and develop partnership with offshore team to facilitate 2nd level QC process. + Understand legal contracts to interpret new and existing index licensing fee structures and reporting requirements. + Develop keen understanding of factors that impact index licensing and apply that knowledge to identify ways to enhance and streamline processes. + Contribute to operational process optimization projects and quality control designs. + Understand material changes to BlackRock’s vendor relationships and proactively update processes accordingly. + Build relationships with IDS relationship managers and assigned vendors globally. + Partner with internal stakeholders to ensure timely and accurate delivery of reporting requirements. + Research and resolve inquiries from internal stakeholders and vendors to ensure timely resolution. **Requirements:** + Bachelor’s or master’s degree in related field. + 3+ years relevant work experience; knowledge of the Financial Services industry and the passive investing business (including ETFs) preferred. + Knowledge of Market and Index Data providers and ability to interpret contract terms and conditions is a plus. + Advanced Excel knowledge and proficiency of other MS Office applications required; ability to quickly learn proprietary systems (BlackRock’s own and third-party platforms) is a plus. + Experience with SQL, Power BI, Python is a plus. + Strong problem-solving and analytical skills are a must. + Excellent communication skills (written and verbal) are required. + Bold and proactive with a willingness to stretch outside comfort-zone. + Self-starter, able to prioritize and deliver multiple assignments with high quality and consistent results. + Proven record of alignment with BlackRock's Principles. **Our benefits** To help you stay energized, engaged and inspired, we offer a wide range of benefits including a strong retirement plan, tuition reimbursement, comprehensive healthcare, support for working parents and Flexible Time Off (FTO) so you can relax, recharge and be there for the people you care about. **Our hybrid work model** BlackRock’s hybrid work model is designed to enable a culture of collaboration and apprenticeship that enriches the experience of our employees, while supporting flexibility for all. Employees are currently required to work at least 4 days in the office per week, with the flexibility to work from home 1 day a week. Some business groups may require more time in the office due to their roles and responsibilities. We remain focused on increasing the impactful moments that arise when we work together in person – aligned with our commitment to performance and innovation. As a new joiner, you can count on this hybrid model to accelerate your learning and onboarding experience here at BlackRock. **About BlackRock** At BlackRock, we are all connected by one mission: to help more and more people experience financial well-being. Our clients, and the people they serve, are saving for retirement, paying for their children’s educations, buying homes and starting businesses. Their investments also help to strengthen the global economy: support businesses small and large; finance infrastructure projects that connect and power cities; and facilitate innovations that drive progress. This mission would not be possible without our smartest investment – the one we make in our employees. It’s why we’re dedicated to creating an environment where our colleagues feel welcomed, valued and supported with networks, benefits and development opportunities to help them thrive. For additional information on BlackRock, please visit @blackrock (http://careers.blackrock.com/) | Twitter: @blackrock (https://twitter.com/blackrock) | LinkedIn: www.linkedin.com/company/blackrock BlackRock is proud to be an Equal Opportunity Employer. We evaluate qualified applicants without regard to age, disability, family status, gender identity, race, religion, sex, sexual orientation and other protected attributes at law.