At a Glance
- Tasks: Lead operations and finance for a fast-growing payments group in the UK.
- Company: Ambitious e-wallet company expanding internationally from Saudi Arabia.
- Benefits: Mentorship from the Executive Director and opportunities for career growth.
- Other info: Dynamic role with a chance to work across international teams.
- Why this job: Shape the UK operations from the ground up and make a real impact.
- Qualifications: Experience in UK EMI or payments operations and strong operational control skills.
The predicted salary is between 56700 - 69300 £ per year.
Our client is an ambitious, fast-growing payments and e-wallet group based in Saudi Arabia, now expanding internationally. The UK is its first step. It is setting up its UK business in Canary Wharf and preparing to apply to the FCA for authorisation as an electronic money institution. This is a new permanent post in a small UK leadership team. You’ll report to the UK Executive Director, who will mentor and coach you directly.
Role & Responsibilities
This is a chance to build the UK operating controls rather than take over someone else’s. You’ll own the UK operating controls and how the UK business works with finance. You’ll make sure work done by external providers and the group head office is properly overseen and accountable in the UK. Your remit will include:
- Owning or overseeing safeguarding, daily reconciliations and the checks and controls around them
- Overseeing outsourced providers and contracts against UK regulatory obligations, and keeping evidence that the checks are done
- Coordinating the UK finance and operating model with head-office finance, advisers and external auditors
- Reviewing and challenging financial projections, assumptions, outsourcing arrangements and wind-down plans
- Helping design the control framework for an efficient, largely outsourced operating model
The Desired Applicant
- Hands-on experience in UK EMI or payments operations, safeguarding, or finance and operations management
- Strong operational control skills, ideally including building processes in a smaller or growing payments business
- Sound financial judgement and the confidence to review and challenge specialists, providers and senior stakeholders
- Comfortable working across UK and Saudi teams in a lean, fast-moving setting, sometimes with early or late meetings
- An accountancy qualification is welcome but not essential
- Ready for your first end-to-end leadership role, with a long-term view beyond authorisation
- London-based or able to commute to Canary Wharf every day
Operations & Finance Lead in London employer: Russam
At Russam, we pride ourselves on being an exceptional employer that values expertise and fosters a collaborative work culture. As an Interim CFO for Sale Readiness & Due Diligence, you will have the opportunity to work alongside seasoned professionals in a dynamic environment that encourages personal and professional growth. Our commitment to employee development, coupled with our focus on impactful financial strategies, makes us an ideal place for those seeking meaningful and rewarding employment in the heart of the Private Equity sector.
StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫
We think this is how you could land Operations & Finance Lead in London
✨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 Russam. 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 Operations & Finance Lead in London
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 Russam.
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 Russam'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 Russam
✨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 Russam.
✨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 Russam 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 Russam 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.
