At a Glance
- Tasks: Lead a financial services organisation, driving growth and ensuring regulatory compliance.
- Company: Dynamic EMI-focused financial services firm in London.
- Benefits: Competitive salary of £500,000, hybrid work model, and potential for permanent role.
- Why this job: Shape the future of finance while leading a high-performing team.
- Qualifications: Proven CEO experience in EMI or regulated payments, FCA approval required.
- Other info: Opportunity to influence strategic direction and expand into international markets.
Location: London (Hybrid)
Contract: 12-month initial contract (with view to permanent)
Compensation: c. £500,000 per annum
Overview
We are supporting a financial services organisation operating within the EMI (Electronic Money Institution) space in the appointment of a Chief Executive Officer. This is a board-level, FCA-regulated leadership role requiring an individual with prior experience leading an EMI business and holding (or being eligible for) FCA approval (SMF1). The CEO will be responsible for driving strategic growth, ensuring regulatory compliance, and leading the organisation through its next phase of scale.
Key Responsibilities
- Provide overall leadership and strategic direction for the organisation
- Act as the SMF1 (CEO) under FCA regulation
- Maintain and strengthen relationships with the FCA and other regulatory bodies
- Drive commercial growth, operational performance, and market expansion
- Ensure robust governance, risk, and compliance frameworks are embedded
- Work closely with the Board, investors, and key stakeholders
- Build and lead a high-performing executive leadership team
- Oversee financial performance, funding strategy, and long‑term planning
Key Requirements
- Proven experience as a CEO (or equivalent senior executive) within an EMI or regulated payments business
- FCA‑approved (SMF1) or demonstrable ability to secure approval
- Deep understanding of UK regulatory frameworks, particularly within payments and e‑money
- Track record of scaling regulated financial services organisations
- Strong commercial acumen alongside regulatory credibility
- Experience working with boards, investors, and regulators
- Exceptional leadership, communication, and stakeholder management skills
- Background in fintech, payments, or digital banking
- Experience in high‑growth or transformation environments
- Exposure to international markets and regulatory expansion
Profile Summary
This role requires a highly credible, proven CEO with direct EMI leadership experience. The successful candidate will combine regulatory expertise with commercial leadership, capable of navigating complexity while driving growth.
Chief Executive Officer employer: dcoded. | B Corp ™ pending
Contact Detail:
dcoded. | B Corp ™ pending Recruiting Team
StudySmarter Expert Advice 🤫
We think this is how you could land Chief Executive Officer
✨Tip Number 1
Network like a pro! Reach out to your connections in the financial services sector, especially those with EMI experience. We all know that sometimes it’s not just what you know, but who you know that can help you land that CEO role.
✨Tip Number 2
Prepare for interviews by brushing up on your knowledge of UK regulatory frameworks and the FCA. We want you to be able to discuss how you’ve navigated compliance challenges in the past. Show them you’re the expert they need!
✨Tip Number 3
Don’t forget to showcase your leadership style! Be ready to share examples of how you’ve built high-performing teams and driven strategic growth. We want to see your vision for leading an organisation through its next phase.
✨Tip Number 4
Apply through our website! It’s the best way to ensure your application gets noticed. We’re here to support you in landing that dream job, so don’t hesitate to take the leap and submit your application today!
We think you need these skills to ace Chief Executive Officer
Some tips for your application 🫡
Tailor Your CV: Make sure your CV is tailored to highlight your experience in leading EMI businesses and your understanding of FCA regulations. We want to see how your background aligns with the key requirements of the role.
Craft a Compelling Cover Letter: Your cover letter should tell us why you're the perfect fit for this CEO position. Share your vision for driving strategic growth and how you plan to navigate regulatory challenges. Be authentic and let your personality shine through!
Showcase Leadership Experience: In your application, emphasise your leadership skills and any experience you have in building high-performing teams. We’re looking for someone who can inspire and lead effectively, so don’t hold back on sharing your successes.
Apply Through Our Website: We encourage you to apply directly through our website. It’s the best way for us to receive your application and ensures you’re considered for this exciting opportunity. Plus, it makes the process smoother for everyone involved!
How to prepare for a job interview at dcoded. | B Corp ™ pending
✨Know Your Regulatory Stuff
As a potential CEO, you need to demonstrate a deep understanding of the UK regulatory frameworks, especially in payments and e-money. Brush up on FCA regulations and be ready to discuss how you've navigated compliance challenges in your previous roles.
✨Showcase Your Leadership Experience
Prepare to share specific examples of how you've led teams and driven strategic growth in your past positions. Highlight your experience in building high-performing teams and how you've managed relationships with boards and investors.
✨Demonstrate Commercial Acumen
Be ready to discuss your track record in scaling businesses and driving commercial success. Think about metrics or achievements that showcase your ability to expand market presence and improve operational performance.
✨Engage with Stakeholders
Since this role involves working closely with various stakeholders, prepare to talk about your approach to stakeholder management. Share examples of how you've built and maintained strong relationships with regulators, investors, and other key players in the industry.