Segregated Storage

Term from Precious Metal Trading industry explained for recruiters

Segregated Storage is a secure way of storing precious metals where each customer's items are kept completely separate from others and specifically marked with the owner's identity. Think of it like having your own personal safe deposit box in a bank, rather than having your items mixed with others. This method is considered premium in the precious metals industry because it ensures that customers always get back the exact same items they deposited. It's different from 'pooled storage' where metals are mixed together, similar to how money works in a regular bank account.

Examples in Resumes

Managed Segregated Storage operations for over $50M in precious metals

Implemented new Segregated Storage tracking systems for client holdings

Supervised Segregated Storage audits and client reporting procedures

Typical job title: "Precious Metals Storage Managers"

Also try searching for:

Vault Manager Precious Metals Custodian Storage Operations Manager Bullion Storage Specialist Precious Metals Operations Manager Vault Operations Supervisor

Example Interview Questions

Senior Level Questions

Q: How would you handle a situation where a client disputes the condition of their stored metals?

Expected Answer: Should discuss documentation procedures, entry/exit inspections, security cameras, maintaining detailed records, and client communication protocols.

Q: What security measures would you implement for a large segregated storage facility?

Expected Answer: Should mention multiple verification steps, surveillance systems, staff access controls, regular audits, and emergency procedures.

Mid Level Questions

Q: Explain the difference between segregated and non-segregated storage.

Expected Answer: Should explain that segregated means keeping each client's metals separately identified and stored, while non-segregated means metals are pooled together with only the amount owned being tracked.

Q: How do you maintain accurate inventory records in segregated storage?

Expected Answer: Should discuss tracking systems, regular reconciliation, unique identifiers for each item, and documentation procedures.

Junior Level Questions

Q: What information needs to be recorded when accepting items for segregated storage?

Expected Answer: Should mention client details, item descriptions, weights, serial numbers, condition notes, and time/date of deposit.

Q: What are the basic security procedures for accessing stored items?

Expected Answer: Should describe verification of authorization, dual control access, logging procedures, and basic security protocols.

Experience Level Indicators

Junior (0-2 years)

  • Basic precious metals handling
  • Record keeping and documentation
  • Security protocols adherence
  • Client service basics

Mid (2-5 years)

  • Inventory management systems
  • Audit preparation and assistance
  • Client relationship management
  • Team supervision

Senior (5+ years)

  • Facility management
  • Security system oversight
  • Risk management
  • Regulatory compliance

Red Flags to Watch For

  • No understanding of basic security protocols
  • Lack of attention to detail in record keeping
  • Poor knowledge of precious metals handling
  • No experience with inventory management systems