Chief Operating Officer/Legal - Venture Capital (12 Month FTC)

An exciting opportunity has arisen for an experienced Chief Operating Officer to join a leading venture capital fund on an interim basis, covering maternity leave for approximately 10-12 months. This is a rare chance to play a pivotal role in a globally-minded investment firm that backs visionary founders transforming the physical world with technology. With a platform of over 300 professionals and a strong track record across the UK, Europe, and the US, this organisation offers you the chance to work alongside some of the most knowledgeable minds in the industry.

You will be at the heart of operational excellence, supporting fund launches, investor engagement, and strategic growth initiatives. The position offers flexible working opportunities and the chance to collaborate closely with senior partners and talented teams, all while making a tangible impact on the future direction of the business.

Join a highly respected venture capital fund investing in transformative technology companies across multiple geographies, offering you exposure to global markets and innovative founders. Take on a central leadership role during a period of significant growth and transition, including the launch of a new fund and key investor events, ensuring your contributions are both visible and valued. Enjoy flexible working arrangements and direct collaboration with senior partners, fostering an inclusive environment where your expertise in operations, legal matters, and team management will truly shine.

What you’ll do:

• Oversee every aspect of operations outside direct investment decisions.
• Manage complex fund launches or prepare for high-profile investor meetings.
• Collaborate with external partners or guide internal teams through compliance updates.
• Identify opportunities for process improvement while nurturing strong interpersonal connections across departments.
• Shape strategic initiatives alongside senior leaders while ensuring that all operational elements run smoothly.
• Oversee all non-investment functions within the organisation, ensuring seamless day-to-day operations across HR, IT, finance, legal matters, and compliance within an FCA-regulated environment.
• Manage operational aspects of three funds at different stages.
• Directly supervise key team members including an Operations Associate, Head of Investor Relations, and finance contractors.
• Coordinate relationships with external service providers to ensure high standards of service delivery.
• Support talent management processes including hiring, onboarding, and ongoing development.
• Drive compliance activities by maintaining up-to-date policies and procedures in line with regulatory requirements and best practices.
• Lead or participate in executive committee meetings to shape organisational strategy.
• Contribute to branding initiatives and growth strategies that enhance the platform’s reputation among investors and portfolio companies alike.
• If you have a legal background, provide additional support during portfolio company funding rounds.
• Prepare for major events such as annual investor meetings and interim closings.

What you bring:

• A wealth of experience from leading consulting or legal backgrounds combined with hands-on knowledge of venture capital or private equity operations.
• Experience gained from top-tier strategy consulting or legal firms provides you with robust analytical skills and professional rigour essential for this role.
• A proven track record in venture capital or private equity fund operations.
• At least 7-10 years' experience working within small teams or start-up settings.
• Exceptional communication skills enable you to build trust quickly with colleagues at all levels.
• High emotional intelligence allows you to act as an effective integrator.
• Financial literacy ensures you can interpret budgets, management accounts, valuations, and other key metrics.
• Outstanding project management abilities mean you can juggle multiple priorities.
• Operational expertise enables you to design efficient processes that support business growth.
• A collaborative mindset fosters teamwork both internally and externally.
• If applicable: Legal qualifications or experience allow you to contribute more deeply during portfolio company funding rounds or contract negotiations.

What sets this company apart:

This organisation stands out as one of the most respected names in venture capital thanks to its unique blend of deep sector knowledge, global reach, and unwavering commitment to founder success. With over $140 million under management across multiple funds, you’ll be joining at a time when your contributions can make a lasting impact. The platform’s extensive network of more than 300 professionals opens doors not just for portfolio companies but also for employees seeking mentorship or career development opportunities. Here you’ll find an inclusive culture that values diverse perspectives while prioritising flexibility in how work gets done.

What’s next:

If you are ready to bring your operational expertise to one of venture capital’s most exciting platforms during this pivotal period, apply today by clicking on the link provided; we look forward to connecting with candidates who share our passion for impactful collaboration.