Head of Payment Operations – FCA-Approved EMI

Head of Payment Operations – FCA-Approved EMI

Our client, an FCA-approved Electronic Money Institution (EMI), is seeking an experienced Head of Payment Operations with deep expertise in UK payments. This senior-level role requires a strong background in regulated financial institutions, balancing strategic leadership with hands-on operational involvement, particularly in the short term as the department expands.

Currently, the payments team consists of two members within a small but growing company. The successful candidate will play a key role in driving innovation while ensuring compliance and operational efficiency.

Role Overview

As Head of Payment Operations, you will be responsible for shaping and executing the payments strategy, ensuring seamless transactions, regulatory compliance, and cost-effective operations. You will lead and develop the payments team, collaborate with key stakeholders, and drive product enhancements.

Key Responsibilities

• Develop and implement a robust payments strategy and roadmap.
• Oversee payment processing, settlements, and reconciliations.
• Ensure full compliance with UK payment regulations and industry standards.
• Collaborate with internal teams and external partners to optimize payment solutions.
• Drive innovation, process improvements, and cost efficiencies in payments operations.
• Lead, mentor, and grow the payments team.
• Identify and mitigate financial risks.
• Stay informed on industry trends, regulatory updates, and emerging payment technologies.

What We’re Looking For

• Extensive experience in the financial sector, particularly in senior payments roles.
• Strong background in regulated financial institutions, ideally within an FCA-approved EMI.
• Proven expertise in UK payment regulations, systems, and compliance requirements.
• Familiarity with payment processing, card schemes, and system integrations.
• Demonstrated leadership and team management skills.
• Analytical, data-driven mindset with a solution-oriented approach.
• Ability to thrive in a fast-paced, evolving environment.

Our client is looking for a strategic yet hands-on leader with the right mix of experience and regulatory knowledge to drive payment operations forward in an innovative and compliant manner.

Seniority level

Mid-Senior level

Employment type

Full-time

Job function

Finance, Strategy/Planning, and Analyst

Industries

Financial Services and Banking

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