Chief Operating Officer in London

Chief Operating Officer (SMF24) – Wealth / Investment Management
London | Up to £140,000 base
We are working on a senior, FCA-regulated COO appointment within an established investment / wealth management business.
This is a designated SMF24 (Chief Operations Function) role under SMCR. Applicants must have previously held SMF24 within an FCA-authorised firm. This is not a “step-up” mandate — prior approval and direct accountability under the Senior Managers Regime is essential.
The business is at a meaningful inflection point. Having undertaken strategic change within its operating infrastructure, it now requires a COO who can rationalise complexity, strengthen oversight of outsourced arrangements, and industrialise processes across the front-to-back investment lifecycle.
Core mandate:
Own and evolve the Target Operating Model within a regulated wealth/investment management environment
Exercise robust oversight of key third-party providers and outsourced functions (including custody/clearing relationships)
Embed strong operational governance aligned to SYSC requirements and Consumer Duty
Take ultimate accountability for onboarding, AML/KYC, suitability oversight and first line controls
Drive automation and workflow redesign across investment operations and client servicing
Provide clear, board-level reporting on operational risk, service standards and transformation progress
The successful individual will bring:
Proven track record as an approved SMF24
Extensive experience within UK wealth or investment management
Deep understanding of CASS, AML/KYC, Suitability and FCA supervisory expectations
Demonstrable experience leading operational transformation and managing regulatory scrutiny
Strong vendor governance and outsourcing oversight capability
The authority and judgement to operate credibly at Board level
This is a hands-on, accountable COO position requiring someone comfortable challenging legacy processes while operating within a controlled, FCA-regulated framework.
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