At a Glance
- Tasks: Lead operations to achieve strategic goals and enhance efficiency in a dynamic financial services environment.
- Company: Respected UK financial services organisation focused on growth and regulatory excellence.
- Benefits: Competitive salary, leadership opportunities, and a commitment to diversity and inclusion.
- Why this job: Make a significant impact by optimising operations and driving organisational change.
- Qualifications: Degree-level qualification or 10+ years in senior operational management within financial services.
- Other info: Join a culture that values authenticity and promotes equitable pathways for all.
The predicted salary is between 72000 - 108000 ÂŁ per year.
A highly respected UK financial services organisation is seeking an experienced Operations Director to play a pivotal role in delivering its strategic and operational objectives. Reporting directly to the Chief Operating Officer, this role will provide leadership across core operational functions, ensuring that systems, processes, and people are aligned to support sustainable growth, regulatory excellence, and operational efficiency.
The Operations Director will be responsible for directing and controlling the ongoing operations of the business to meet the strategic and performance objectives set by the Executive Board. Working closely with senior stakeholders across the organisation, the role will focus on optimising operational delivery while fostering a culture of collaboration, accountability, and continuous improvement.
Key responsibilities include:
- Providing strategic leadership across operational teams to deliver agreed business and performance objectives.
- Collaborating with Transformation and Technology functions to develop and implement effective operational strategies within agreed budgets and resourcing levels.
- Reviewing, developing, and enhancing operational systems and processes to meet evolving organisational needs.
- Defining and monitoring key operational KPIs, producing clear analysis and insight to support Executive Board decision‑making and effective governance.
- Overseeing operational budgets and productivity, driving cost efficiencies and improved output through people and process optimisation.
- Leading, motivating, and developing a high‑performing operational management team.
- Ensuring operating objectives and performance standards are clearly understood and fully owned across teams.
- Maintaining robust operational controls that align with internal regulatory standards and the organisation's risk appetite.
- Working collaboratively with other senior leaders to ensure alignment of strategy, priorities, and communication across the business.
Candidate Profile
The successful candidate will be a commercially astute operational leader with a strong track record within regulated financial services environments.
Essential experience and attributes include:
- Degree-level qualification or equivalent, or 10+ years' senior operational management experience.
- Experience operating at a strategic leadership level.
- Proven experience managing multiple department heads across complex operational functions.
- Strong working knowledge of financial services regulation and best‑practice operational management.
- Demonstrable experience designing and implementing productivity and performance measurement frameworks.
- Excellent analytical capability with a data‑driven approach to decision‑making.
- Strong communication, influencing, and leadership skills.
- Experience leading large‑scale projects and driving organisational change.
- Clear alignment with the organisation's core values and leadership behaviours.
Diversity, Equity and Inclusion Mission
At IDEX, we strive for an inclusion‑first company culture where everyone is treated fairly and can bring their authentic selves to work. We recognise and acknowledge that diverse representation at every level of our business requires continuous and measurable effort. We are committed to driving conscious inclusion across our business and creating equitable pathways.
Operations Director employer: IDEX Consulting
Contact Detail:
IDEX Consulting Recruiting Team
StudySmarter Expert Advice 🤫
We think this is how you could land Operations Director
✨Network Like a Pro
Get out there and connect with people in the industry! Attend events, join online forums, and don’t be shy about reaching out to folks on LinkedIn. We all know that sometimes it’s not just what you know, but who you know that can help you land that Operations Director role.
✨Ace the Informational Interview
Set up informal chats with current or former employees of the company you’re eyeing. This is your chance to learn about the culture and expectations while also making a great impression. We can’t stress enough how these conversations can give you an edge over other candidates!
✨Showcase Your Leadership Skills
When you get the chance to meet with potential employers, make sure to highlight your experience in leading teams and driving change. Share specific examples of how you’ve optimised operations and improved performance. We want to see that you can walk the talk!
✨Apply Through Our Website
Don’t forget to apply directly through our website! It’s the best way to ensure your application gets seen by the right people. Plus, we love seeing candidates who take that extra step to engage with us directly. Let’s get you that Operations Director position!
We think you need these skills to ace Operations Director
Some tips for your application 🫡
Tailor Your CV: Make sure your CV is tailored to the Operations Director role. Highlight your experience in financial services and operational management, focusing on achievements that align with the key responsibilities mentioned in the job description.
Craft a Compelling Cover Letter: Your cover letter should tell your story! Use it to explain why you're the perfect fit for this role. Mention specific examples of how you've led teams and improved operational efficiency in previous positions.
Showcase Your Leadership Skills: In both your CV and cover letter, emphasise your leadership style and how you've motivated teams in the past. We want to see how you foster collaboration and accountability within your teams!
Apply Through Our Website: Don’t forget to apply through our website! It’s the best way for us to receive your application and ensures you’re considered for this exciting opportunity. We can’t wait to hear from you!
How to prepare for a job interview at IDEX Consulting
✨Know Your Numbers
As an Operations Director, you'll need to demonstrate your analytical skills. Brush up on key operational KPIs relevant to the financial services sector. Be ready to discuss how you've used data to drive decisions and improve performance in previous roles.
✨Showcase Your Leadership Style
This role requires strong leadership capabilities. Prepare examples of how you've led teams through change or improved collaboration across departments. Highlight your approach to motivating and developing high-performing teams, as this will resonate well with the interviewers.
✨Understand the Regulatory Landscape
Given the importance of regulatory excellence in this position, make sure you’re familiar with current financial services regulations. Be prepared to discuss how you've navigated compliance challenges in the past and how you can ensure operational controls align with regulatory standards.
✨Align with Company Values
Research the company's core values and mission, especially their commitment to diversity, equity, and inclusion. Be ready to articulate how your personal values align with theirs and how you can contribute to fostering an inclusive culture within the organisation.