At a Glance
- Tasks: Lead daily operations and drive efficiency in a dynamic financial services firm.
- Company: Established London-based financial services firm with a global reach.
- Benefits: Competitive salary, hands-on role, and opportunity to shape the company's future.
- Other info: Office-first culture with a focus on operational excellence.
- Why this job: Make a real impact in a lean, high-trust environment while leading a talented team.
- Qualifications: Proven experience as COO or similar in regulated financial services.
The predicted salary is between 148500 - 181500 £ per year.
Harper May is partnering with an established, London-based specialist financial services firm that provides market infrastructure to institutional participants in regulated international markets. The business is owner-led, profitable, long-established and operates globally through a network of counterparties across the UK, the Middle East and Asia.
A Chief Operating Officer is being appointed to run the firm day to day alongside the senior leadership team and take ownership of the operational engine across the business.
The Role
Reporting to the CEO and working closely with the senior leadership team, the COO will carry end-to-end responsibility for the operations of the firm. This is a hands-on executive seat rather than a strategy-only brief, suited to a senior operator who has run a regulated financial services or market infrastructure business before and is comfortable owning the P&L of operations, technology, risk and compliance in a lean, high-trust environment.
Key Responsibilities
- Own the day-to-day running of the firm's operational, technology and support functions
- Lead the operations, trade support, settlement and client services teams across the group
- Partner with the CEO and the leadership team on strategy, commercial priorities and the firm's growth plan
- Oversee the risk, compliance and regulatory agenda across UK and international entities
- Drive operational efficiency, process automation and the ongoing technology roadmap
- Represent the firm at senior counterparty, regulator and client level
- Lead, develop and build out the operational leadership team
- Own the operating budget, cost base and capital allocation for the functions in scope
- Support board reporting on operational performance, risk and controls
What we are looking for
- Proven COO, Deputy COO or Head of Operations track record inside a regulated financial services firm, market infrastructure business, broker-dealer, asset manager, trading firm or similar
- Strong operational, technology and risk management credentials
- Comfortable operating across multiple jurisdictions and multiple entities
- Credible at CEO and board level, with a track record of building and leading operational teams
- Commercial, pragmatic and genuinely hands-on; the firm runs lean and the role goes with it
- Prior experience in Islamic finance, international wholesale markets, commodities or a similar specialist environment is a plus but not essential
- Based within a comfortable commute of central London; office-first culture
Chief Operating Officer employer: Harper May
Harper May is an exceptional employer, offering a dynamic work environment in the heart of London where finance professionals can thrive. With a strong focus on employee development and growth opportunities, you will be empowered to make impactful contributions while enjoying a collaborative culture that values innovation and insight. The company's commitment to bridging finance and operations ensures that your role as a Development Finance Analyst will be both meaningful and rewarding, providing you with the chance to influence key project outcomes.
StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫
We think this is how you could land Chief Operating Officer
✨Tap into Campus Networks
If you're still in uni, don’t forget to engage with your campus's career services and attend finance-related events. Banks often do presentations and recruitment drives on campus, so put yourself out there and make use of these opportunities to show off your passion for the field.
✨Get Certified
Consider pursuing relevant certifications like the CFA or ACCA while you’re job hunting. They not only beef up your CV but also connect you with professional bodies which can lead to networking opportunities and even job openings in banking and financial services.
✨Connect on Professional Platforms
Join finance-focused groups on platforms like LinkedIn and engage in discussions. This can really help you stand out from the crowd, allowing potential employers to see your knowledge and interest in industry trends. Plus, you might stumble upon job postings shared exclusively within the group.
✨Apply Directly and Be Proactive
Don’t shy away from reaching out directly to firms like Harper May. Use their websites and apply through them, but also consider following up with a polite email to express your enthusiasm. Being proactive can make a huge difference in getting noticed in the competitive financial services sector.
We think you need these skills to ace Chief Operating Officer
Some tips for your application 🫡
Show Off Your Numbers!:In the banking and financial services world, quantifiable achievements are key. Make sure your CV highlights your grades in relevant subjects, any financial certifications you hold, and specific projects where you've delivered measurable results. Employers love to see how your skills translate into real-world success.
Tailor Your Cover Letter to the Role:When applying for a full-time position, your cover letter should make a direct connection between your experience and the job description. Don't just state your enthusiasm for finance—dive into how your background in banking or financial analysis sets you apart. Let your passion shine through while being specific about what you can bring to Harper May.
Include Relevant Financial Software Experience:If you've worked with financial modelling tools or software like Excel, SAP, or specific analytical tools during your studies or internships, bring that up! Highlighting your proficiency can really make your application pop and show you're ready to hit the ground running in a full-time role.
Research and Reflect:Before hitting that 'apply' button on Harper May's website, do a little digging. Look up their recent projects, values, and culture. Reflecting their ethos in your application can make a huge difference and show you’re genuinely interested in being part of the team!
How to prepare for a job interview at Harper May
✨Brush Up on Financial Analysis Skills
Make sure you're well-versed in financial concepts and analytical techniques relevant to banking and financial services. Get comfortable with tools like Excel for modelling or financial forecasting, as technical questions in this area are common during interviews with Harper May.
✨Prepare for Case Studies
Expect to tackle case studies that demonstrate your problem-solving skills in real-world banking scenarios. Familiarise yourself with the types of problems you might face—think risk assessments or investment evaluations—and be ready to articulate your thought process clearly.
✨Show Your Passion for Finance
Since this is a full-time position, employers at Harper May will be keen to see your genuine interest in finance. Be prepared to discuss recent industry trends or news articles that excite you, showcasing your enthusiasm and engagement with the field.
✨Network with Industry Professionals
Before your interview, reach out to current or former Harper May employees on platforms like LinkedIn. They'll offer unique insights into the company's culture and the interview process, which can give us a delightful edge in showcasing a good fit for the team.
