At a Glance
- Tasks: Lead operational strategy and ensure compliance with regulatory requirements in a dynamic banking environment.
- Company: An ambitious international bank with a strong UK presence and a focus on growth.
- Benefits: Competitive salary, bonus, benefits, and the chance to shape the future of banking.
- Other info: Opportunity for significant influence and career growth within a diverse operational portfolio.
- Why this job: Join the executive team and make a significant impact on operational excellence and strategic initiatives.
- Qualifications: Extensive senior leadership experience in UK-regulated banking and deep knowledge of regulatory frameworks.
The predicted salary is between 60000 - 90000 £ per year.
An international banking institution with an established UK presence is seeking an exceptional Chief Operating Officer (COO) to join its Executive Committee and help drive the next phase of its growth, transformation and operational excellence agenda.
Ideal role for an established COO or a number-two looking to step up into the COO role. This is a rare opportunity for a senior banking executive to take ownership of a broad and strategically critical portfolio encompassing operations, operational resilience, business continuity, outsourcing oversight, transformation, governance, facilities management, financial crime analysis and international expansion initiatives.
The SMF24 oversight will be pivotal in ensuring the Bank maintains a robust, well-controlled and resilient operating environment while supporting ambitious commercial and strategic objectives.
The Opportunity: Reporting directly to the Chief Executive Officer and serving as a key member of the Executive Committee, you will be responsible for leading the Bank's operational strategy and ensuring compliance with PRA and FCA regulatory requirements under the Senior Managers & Certification Regime (SM&CR). You will provide executive leadership across critical operational functions while partnering closely with Board members, regulators, and senior stakeholders to strengthen governance, resilience, efficiency and customer outcomes.
Key Responsibilities
- Governance: Serve as a member of the Executive Committee and key governance forums. Contribute to strategic planning, risk management and organisational decision-making. Provide regular reporting to the Board and Board Committees on operational performance, resilience and risk.
- SMF24 Regulatory Accountability & Risktability: Hold accountability for the Bank's operational environment under SMF24/SMCR. Ensure effective oversight of operational processes, systems, controls and governance frameworks. Maintain constructive and transparent relationships with the PRA and FCA.
- Operational Resilience & Business Continuity: Lead the Operational Resilience Framework, including Important Business Services (IBS), impact tolerances and scenario testing. Oversee business continuity, disaster recovery and crisis management capabilities. Drive continuous improvement across resilience and operational risk management.
- Operations & Control Environment: Lead core banking operations including payments, settlements, reconciliations, client onboarding, KYC operations and transaction processing. Ensure operational processes remain efficient, scalable and aligned to regulatory expectations and business strategy. Oversee a strong and effective Operational Middle Office. Sponsor and oversee major business and technology transformation initiatives. Partner with technology leaders to ensure change programmes are delivered safely, effectively and in line with regulatory expectations. Drive operational efficiency through innovation and continuous improvement.
- Leadership & Culture: Lead and develop high-performing teams across a diverse operational portfolio. Foster a culture of accountability, operational excellence, strong risk management and regulatory compliance. Build organisational capability and succession plans to support long-term growth.
Experience Needed
- Significant senior leadership experience within a UK-regulated banking environment.
- Deep knowledge of PRA and FCA regulatory frameworks, including SM&CR, operational resilience and outsourcing requirements.
- Experience performing or supporting an SMF24 function as a lead or as a C-1.
- Proven expertise in operations leadership, business continuity, operational resilience and risk management.
- Strong experience managing Operational Middle Office functions.
- Board, Executive Committee and regulator-facing experience.
- Outstanding stakeholder management, communication and leadership capabilities.
This is an opportunity to join the executive leadership team of an ambitious international banking organisation and play a central role in shaping its operational strategy, regulatory standing and future growth. You will have significant influence across the organisation, direct engagement with regulators and the opportunity to lead a broad portfolio that is fundamental to the Bank's continued success.
Chief Operating Officer employer: Trace | Expert Accountancy & Finance Recruitment
Join a well-established manufacturing business in West London as a Fractional Finance Director, where you will play a pivotal role in driving financial leadership and meaningful change. With a collaborative work culture and a focus on employee growth, this position offers the chance to make a tangible impact while working closely with senior leadership. Enjoy the benefits of a hands-on role in a supportive environment, with convenient on-site parking and the opportunity to shape the finance function during a critical period of development.
Contact Details:
Trace | Expert Accountancy & Finance Recruitment Recruitment Team
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 Trace | Expert Accountancy & Finance Recruitment. 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 Trace | Expert Accountancy & Finance Recruitment.
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 Trace | Expert Accountancy & Finance Recruitment'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 Trace | Expert Accountancy & Finance Recruitment
✨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 Trace | Expert Accountancy & Finance Recruitment.
✨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 Trace | Expert Accountancy & Finance Recruitment 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 Trace | Expert Accountancy & Finance Recruitment 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.
